Aida Arko
From circus acrobatics to hard-edged techno, Iranian-born DJ and producer Aida Arko's journey is extraordinary. Now splitting her time between Vienna and Berlin, Aida has just released ‘Hard Disco’ EP drawing on Persian underground influences, relentless hardstyle grooves and celestial soundscapes. A passionate advocate for equality and justice, her music is as bold as her message. We put her through Attack's Q&A.
Why music?
Well, it’s all about rhythm!
If you weren't making music, what would you be doing?
Circus owner.
What's the best advice you’ve ever received?
Keep going.
I was an acrobat and fire performer. However, life as a pro athlete has a short lifespan, and with my growing passion for music, I realised it was time to transition.What inspires you?
Life.
What's the next big thing?
New music.
Best club experience?
Always at my residency – Club Grelle Forelle.
What's the worst job you’ve ever had?
Working at a market. I’m a terrible seller.
How do you know when a track's finished?
Testing it in different places over time and seeing if it still makes sense through different moods and perspectives.
What was your last day job, and when did you realise you could give it up?
I was an acrobat and fire performer. However, life as a pro athlete has a short lifespan, and with my growing passion for music, I realised it was time to transition.
Which song do you wish you wrote?
Dr. Dre, B Real - 'Puppet Master'.
What's the easiest way to make it in the music industry?
Dedicate yourself to making really good music.
What's the worst track you've ever released?
'Prolo Therapy'.
Recommend us a film.
Sin City.
Recommend us a book.
Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life.
What or who is underrated?
Kindness.
What or who is overrated?
Social media numbers.
What are you addicted to?
Creating.
What do you lust over?
It used to be painting; now it's music.
What is your greatest regret?
No regrets :)
What one thing would most improve your life?
Family.
What’s the worst gig you’ve ever played?
Nothing is absolute—I always find something to enjoy!
Collaboration: rich creative experience or pain in the ass?
Rich creative experience.
What’s the secret to a great mix?
Proper EQing and balance between low and high frequencies.
If you could only listen to one more track, what would it be?
'Music Is Math' by Boards of Canada.
How do you relax?
Spa days or hiking in nature with my dog.
What one piece of software/kit could you not do without? Why?
Kontakt 7 by Native Instruments. It's essentially all you need to make any music.
Art or money?
Art.
Ronaldo or Messi?
Ronaldo.
Strangest place you ever wrote a track?
In the Indian jungle.
Must-visit record store?
Hard Wax in Berlin.
What's your single biggest frustration in the music industry?
Competing with fake products.
What’s your favourite label? Why?
Probably my future label :)
What's the worst thing about making music?
The endless possibilities — it’s both a blessing and a curse.
What’s your motto?
There’s no limit.
Name something timeless
Bjork.
Tweet us a tip. What’s the best production advice you can give in 140 characters or less?
The idea matters most. Take your time to try, fail, and keep trying. Be patient, and educate yourself as much as possible. Focus on your originality and what you have to offer. Pay attention to your EQ and sound design, and seek professional feedback. Hard work always pays off.
Complete this sentence: At heart I'm just a frustrated ...
Princess, ahaha!
If someone saw a performance of yours in 1000 years, what do you think they would they say?
The year that techno music led the electronic dance scene and exceeded all expectations.
Can music change the world?
Definitely.
What are you listening to right now?
Archive - "F*** You!"
What should you do before you die?
See the whole world.
Aida Arko 'Hard Disco' is out now on Hekate (Sara Landry's label). Listen on Spotify.
Find Aida Arko on Instagram.
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