By now, you've likely heard of Indira Paganotto. But what really makes her tick? We put her through a quick-fire Q&A to find out.
When we first spoke to Indira Paganotto, it was just after COVID and it felt like the start of something special. Four years on, her career has skyrocketed. With millions of followers (if that's your metric) and streams in the tens of millions, things have moved fast. From her eclectic musical roots in the Canary Islands to commanding stages at Coachella, Tomorrowland and Amnesia Ibiza, she has built a truly global following, all while founding the genre-defining label ARTCORE.
With the release of her new single "Dragon" alongside trance icon Armin van Buuren, we caught up with her for a quick-fire Q&A.
Why music?
Music is art, love, family, nature, creation, and religion. I am all that and more. The best part about being human is being in a constant state of progress, just like music.
If you weren't making music, what would you be doing?
Probably running an animal care centre. I love animals. Or owning a garden shop where people could spend the afternoon surrounded by animals, enjoy some Italian coffee, and buy exotic plants. I also love interior design and painting, so I’d create a space for art there too.
What's the best advice you’ve ever received?
To be yourself. Ignore people who are jealous, lack vibe or goals. They are dangerous and can bring you down.
"I believe we (ARTCORE) release music that stands alone in its own genre. No one else is like us."
What inspires you?
Pureness and people with goals who love to work hard.
What's the next big thing?
Personally, it has to be my album, a selection from hundreds of unreleased tracks from the last 14 years. Also, to have an ARTCORE stage Tomorrowland, Dreambeach, and Mysteryland. The family is growing, and we’ll soon release our best line of merchandise yet.
Best club experience?
Time Warp.
What's the worst job you’ve ever had?
Every job is hard; they all come with a learning process.
How do you know when a track's finished?
If I finish it in a day, I’m fully into it, and it gives me goosebumps. When I close my eyes and get that feeling then it’s done.
What was your last day job and when did you realise you could give it up?
When I was 20, I worked in a restaurant in Madrid, but the owner was so rude I eventually just walked out...but with a big smile.
Which song do you wish you wrote?
Any kind of metal track. I’m really into metal music and always have been.
What's the easiest way to make it in the music industry?
There is no easy way, unless it’s short-lived.
What's the worst track you've ever released?
Hahaha, good question. But I think each track reflects the moment I was in. There isn’t good or bad, just life emulated in music.
Recommend us a film.
Midsommar.