We caught up with Austrian producer Tobias Bergson, who shared his most recent track – a percussive piece of Afro-Garage-House titled ‘One Day’ – on October 25, 2024, via PLAYY Records. With 180 million streams to his name, he has garnered support from DJ Magazine and praise from industry heavyweights like Don Diablo, Lost Frequencies, and Steve Aoki.. Bergson has released music with major labels like Armada and Universal Austria and has performed at various festivals across Europe. He continues to gain recognition, featuring on prominent Spotify playlists such as Chillout Lounge and Deep House Relax. Bergson’s musical identity is deeply influenced by various genres such as deep house, techno, progressive, lounge, and house. His creative sanctuary becomes a fertile ground for experimentation and self-expression.
Stream ‘One Day’ while you read our interview with Tobias below.
Set the tone for us. Why the arts?
Music is the only constant thread that has accompanied me throughout my life. I started producing electronic music about 10 years ago. Music is something that lifts me up when I’m not feeling well, and I hope I can also lift others up and give them energy through my music.
Which comes first when you’re producing – the sound or the idea?
That always varies; sometimes it’s chords, sometimes it’s a melody. But there are also days when I start with the beat and then focus on the chords. I would say it’s always different.
Does your material feature any collaborations?
Not at the moment, as I’m currently working on a lot of new stuff. I’m really looking forward to releasing these songs soon.
What’s on your current playlist?
Good question… At the moment, I’m listening to a lot of Rampa from Keinemusik, but also tracks from Deadmau5. However, when I’m working out, I listen to completely different music, like Billy Talent or Red Hot Chili Peppers. I find it hard to switch off with electronic music, which is why I listen to different genres.
Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.
To be honest, there isn’t really any chemistry at the moment because I’m currently DJing very little, if at all. But I definitely want to change that and watch how people react, dance to my music, and have a great time.
What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?
I enjoy working with common synthesizers, but also with lesser-known ones. I experiment a lot with samples, to the point where the original sample becomes unrecognizable. I’ve also bought live equipment for FL Studio, and I really enjoy experimenting with that as well.
Take us through a day in the recording studio.
I used to produce daily, but lately, I’ve been consciously spending less time in front of the computer. My studio is in my living room, and I’m still using the same speakers I bought 10 years ago. Of course, the sound isn’t really great, but it’s enough for me. I believe the idea is much more important than the sound design. If a track sounds good on cheap speakers, it will sound good anywhere.
Was there a specific moment in your life where you thought, “this is what I want to do”?
When I realized that I could really reach people with my music.
What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?
My glasses case, because I always keep my USB sticks in it. And of course, my sunglasses.
Any emerging artists on your radar?
It’s hard to say, as there are always new names popping up on Spotify. To be honest, I don’t really pay much attention to that. Of course, you know the people who are currently getting a lot of hype, but it’s more beneficial to focus on yourself than on others.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
Sports and good food. I also enjoy watching documentaries about artists of all kinds; it really inspires me when someone is an absolute expert in their field.
Take us through your collection of gear, tech or software that accompanies your creative expression.
I think I have the usual software tools: FL Studio as my DAW, and I’m currently using synthesizers like Serum, Diva, the Native Instruments Bundle, and Hive 2 a lot.
Any side projects you’re working on?
At the moment, I’m working on too many things, which is why many of my projects tend to sit on the back burner for a long time.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you this year?
I hope for good music.
Follow Tobias Bergson:
Facebook – Soundcloud – TikTok – Youtube – Instagram – Spotify
