While Circle Of Life may be a fairly new name in the global techno scene, the Serbian producer and DJ has been in the scene for over 20 years.
However, it is under this current moniker that he is seriously moving heads in the industry. He began strong with his first release on D-Nox’s imprint Sprout, then started 2017 with his debut EP on Coyu’s Suara, all the while always continuing to develop his own style and sound to create catchy, driving percussive tracks that truly encapsulate the motto that keeps his project going: “Till we find our place, On the path unwinding, In The Circle, The Circle Of Life”
We caught up with Circle of Life to discuss life in Serbia and his upcoming plans.
Hi Dusan, how is it going?
Hello guys, it’s going good, thanks for asking. I hope you are doing fine, too!
Awesome, we are too, thank you! Tell us a little about your home in Belgrade. How is it living there?
Belgrade is the capital city of Serbia. Living was better before, now it is a bit more complicated, because of the transit period.
Gotcha. How was it growing up as a kid?
It was absolutely better than now. Life conditions got worse over the years here!
That’s unfortunate, hopefully things improve soon. Tell us though, do you remember when you first heard electronic music?
Well, I guess it was when I was a 12 year old boy. I sat at home and someone of my family turned on a local radio and tv station. Back then I first heard electronic music and was really impressed.
Is house and techno a big thing in Belgrade?
Yes, like everywhere else over the world techno is getting bigger and bigger! Even in Serbia (laughs)
That’s good to hear! Where can one find it on weekends?
There are lot of parties all over the Belgrade, where Techno luckily happens nowadays. I think the development of the scene here is getting better and better!
Exit festival is obviously a big event that is hosted in Serbia. Are there other festivals or major clubbing destinations we should know about?
There are lot of different kind of music festivals in Belgrade, Nis, Novi Sad, Guca, Kragujevac and other cities in Serbia.
How long have you been producing music?
I have started producing music 20 years ago, but my project Circle Of Life has been born since the beginning of last year! Because of some private issues I closed the project I had before.
What kind of sound do you think best represents what you produce?
Circle of Life is oriented to melodic techno and deep house.
Is music your full time gig?
Yes, but it is not easy nowadays, as the competition is big obviously! You always have to stay at the top of everyone’s mind. Sometimes that hard, but I think it all will work out.
What else do you do in your spare time?
I am taking care of my 6 years old daughter. She’s my full time hobby.
Can you tell us what your studio routine consists of?
I have a computer, an audio interface, studio monitors, laptop and midi controller, no hardware synths. I like to keep it simple!
Do you have any favorite specific software or hardware you use?
I have Ableton Live, which I love to use. It’s so quick! You can easily draw down ideas, which is perfect!
How and why did you choose the name Circle of Life?
I choose the name with the help of Chris, D-Nox, and it came through a tragedy with my daughter. She had brain cancer when she was 9 months old. Now she is fine.
Ah man, that’s great to hear! Can you talk us through everything you had to work through in order for you to secure your first release?
I met Chris 10 years ago in Canada and last year I sent him my new music which he loved and he released it a month after that. I’m really thankful for his help and support. Without him I would not be there where I am today!
You’ve had recent releases on Suara, Sudbeat and Sprout which are all great labels. Any tips for other up-and-coming producers on getting their music released on labels such as these? Anything in particular that worked for you?
Be yourself and don’t stop sending your music even if labels refuse to release it. Always believe in yourself, even if other people tell you different things!
What projects are you currently working on?
I have a remix for Beatamines, which will be out 26th of May on Moonbootique! I also have a new track coming up with Felix Kröcher on Form Music.
And I am always working on something new.
Do you have a dream label you’d love your music to come out on one day?
I have a lot of dream labels, but it’s hard to mention one. I just hope that people always will support & enjoy my music.
What are the goals for your Circle of Life project overall?
I hope I will travel more and more and make people happy all over the world.
Connect with Circle of Life: Facebook | Instagram | SoundCloud | Twitter | YouTube
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