Exclusive interview with Olympe

Olympe, your journey from classical piano in Parma to the stages of Tomorrowland and Afterlife is inspiring. Can you tell us about the moment you first fell in love with electronic music and how it shaped your artistic vision?

I was about 11 years old, and at the time I listened to a lot of classical music, Italian singer-songwriters, and rock. One day, my older sister (a born raver) introduced me to 'Gebrünn Gebrünn' by Paul Kalkbrenner. I still remember the goosebumps, the cosmic energy flowing through that track, the coexistence of power and sonic delicacy. It was magical and dark at the same time, and I immediately recognized myself in it; it was completely in tune with my soul. From that day on, I understood a new language and balance that has never left me.

Your recent single "I Don't Want to Talk" on Tomorrowland's 'Rise V.1' compilation has been very well received. What was the creative process behind this track, and what message do you hope listeners take away from it?

I have a strong affection for this track. My goal was to create something that would liberate me from fears and unnecessary thoughts. The line 'I don't wanna talk I just wanna hit the floor' is meant to evoke the idea of following your heart and fully surrendering to your emotions without overthinking. It’s a timeless rhythm paired with a powerful and distinctive lead sound, creating both contrast and energy. This track encapsulates much of what I experience when performing at Tomorrowland, making it a natural and immediate choice to present it to their label.

Your sets are often described as a hypnotic, emotional journey. How do you prepare for your performances and curate your playlists? And what elements are crucial for creating that journey for your listeners?

My sets are indeed a hypnotic, energetic, emotional journey, and preparing for them involves a deep and meticulous process. I start by immersing myself in various genres and new tracks, always looking for sounds that resonate with me on an emotional level. My playlists are curated with a mix of personal favorites, new discoveries, and tracks that have a particular energy or message I want to convey. Creating this journey for my listeners is all about balance and flow. I focus on the dynamics of each set, ensuring there are peaks and valleys that keep the audience engaged. The transitions between tracks are crucial; they need to be smooth yet surprising, guiding the listeners through different emotions seamlessly. I also pay attention to the venue and the crowd, adapting my selections in realtime to enhance the connection and energy in the room. Ultimately, it's about telling a story through music, one that allows listeners to lose themselves in the moment, feel deeply, and perhaps even discover something new about themselves. The goal is to create a shared experience that leaves a lasting impact.

Being the only artist to play on two different stages at Tomorrowland in the same event is a remarkable feat. How did this unique opportunity come about, and what was the experience like for you?

Being the only artist to perform on two different stages at Tomorrowland in the same event is a remarkable achievement. This opportunity arose because Tomorrowland feels like my extended family, offering me complete freedom to express myself creatively. My sets and art embrace both the dreamy, futuristic and groovy sounds of Afterlife, as well as the distinctive sound of Drumcode characterized by powerful basslines, sharp rhythms, and hypnotic atmospheres. There's always a strong duality in my music, two worlds that coexist, with powerful energy and emotional climaxes alongside ethereal elements. I am truly looking forward to performing on these two stages to fully manifest my creativity.

You have a busy summer schedule ahead. Touring extensively means constantly being on the move. How do you manage the challenges of touring, and how does it influence your music and performances?

Having a busy summer schedule ahead it's also an exhilarating opportunity to connect with diverse audiences across different locations. Managing the demands of touring requires meticulous planning and a resilient mindset to adapt to varying environments and schedules. I prioritize self-care practices like adequate rest, meditation, healthy eating, and staying physically active to maintain energy levels and creativity on the road. Ultimately, touring enhances my musical growth by exposing me to new cultures, scenes, and musical influences. It challenges me to push artistic boundaries and deliver memorable experiences that resonate deeply with listeners worldwide.

You've performed at some of the most renowned festivals and clubs worldwide, including Afterlife at Hi Ibiza, Elrow, Brunch In The Park, Loveland, Cocoon at ADE and Zamna in Tulum. Which performance stands out to you the most and why?

For me, every single event holds equal significance; what truly matters is the enchantment and vitality that transpires between myself and the audience. The most memorable moments occur when there's a seamless connection with the crowd, resulting in an explosion of euphoria and vitality. Witnessing the entire audience jumping in unison and surrendering completely at Tomorrowland Winter is just one of the many instances where profound emotions resonate deeply. In those moments, I feel a desire to perform and dance alongside them simultaneously. I pour my heart and soul into my performances, and in return, I receive an equivalent surge of energy from the audience. There's nothing more fulfilling.

As someone who started DJing in 2018 and quickly rose to international fame, what advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers looking to make their mark in the industry?

My advice to aspiring DJs and producers is to stay true to themselves and follow their passion relentlessly. The key to making a lasting impact in the industry is authenticity, not chasing trends or success for its own sake. Focus on honing your unique style and sound, as originality is what sets you apart and resonates with audiences. Stay dedicated to your craft, continue learning, and embrace every opportunity to grow creatively. Ultimately, success comes from expressing your true self through your music, connecting authentically with listeners, and staying committed to your artistic journey.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future? Are there any new sounds or projects you're excited to explore, and what can your fans look forward to in the coming months (we’ve heard about a new EP on Just This, with a remix from Woo York)?

Looking ahead, my goals for the future are all about pushing boundaries, exploring new sonic territories and defining my unique sonic identity. I'm incredibly excited about my upcoming EP on Just This, especially with the thrilling remix from Woo York that adds a whole new dimension to the tracks. This project represents a significant evolution in my sound, blending deep, emotive textures with pulsating rhythms and the remix is an absolute dance floor banger. The track is centered around the allure and power of a siren. The song aims to captivate listeners with a narrative that celebrates her divine feminine energy. Beyond this release, I'm constantly exploring innovative sounds and collaborations that challenge and inspire me creatively. So stay tuned because the journey is just started!