We sat down with KICA, a DJ, house music producer and entrepreneur currently based in Dubai, UAE. Available to stream below exclusively via PLAYY Mag is a mix, courtesy of KICA, that features a selection of Tech House sizzlers that includes an unreleased track of his own (see the tracklist below). Previously releasing music under his name Vladan Krstc through Mixmania Records and Baikonur Recordings, with his 2020 single ‘Mini – Radio Edit’ reaching #4 on Beatport releases, with many subsequent places landing in Beatport’s top 40. He has recently emerged with his first-ever single as KICA featuring Sri Lankan singer Yohani titled ‘Cuckoo’, out now on his own imprint KICA Records (buy or stream the track HERE). In addition to his musical endeavours, he was remarkable as a professional athlete around the globe and a reverent organiser and producer of urban events. To boot, he is the founder of the project Exotika and also runs companies such as The Planet Entertainment and Planet Sound. He launched his own imprint, KICA Records, in 2024.
Read our interview with KICA and stream his exclusive Mix below.
Set the tone for us. Why the arts?
Since I was young, the arts have been my guiding light, shaping who I am and fueling my passion. It’s not just a fleeting interest, it’s at the very core of my being. Through sports, breaking and music have become my means of self-discovery and I’ve found the most authentic ways to express myself. While breaking fulfils my need for connection with the crowd, music enables me to spread joy and give smiles, which is the ultimate source of inspiration for me.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
Sunsets, the sound of the environment, the bustling sounds of city life, and the intricate blend of instruments and electronic beats, all these elements stir something deep within me. There’s a raw beauty in the sights and sounds that surround us every day. These moments inspire me, sparking my creativity and infusing my work with a sense of life and vitality.
Which DJs have inspired you the most?
Ricardo Villalobos and Boris Brejcha.
Take us through your collection of gear, tech or software that accompanies your creative expression.
For the Gear, Technics 1210 Mk2, CDJs and Pioneer Toraiz. For the Software will be Ableton and Analog Lab.
What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?
Applying reverb and delay, reapplying chains, using an LFO and chopping samples.
Take us through a day in the recording studio.
My day in the recording studio doesn’t follow a strict schedule. If I wake up feeling inspired, I dive right in, regardless of the time, whether it’s the middle of the night or late morning. Sometimes, ideas hit me when I’m out and about, so I’ll beatbox them on my phone. Later, back in the studio, I bring those spontaneous moments to life, incorporating them into our recordings for an added touch of creativity
What’s on your current favourite playlist?
Martinez Brothers, Luciano, Ricardo Villalobos, DJ Flag, Fusic and Prodigy.
Any emerging artists from the UAE on your radar?
Hartley.
Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.
The connection I have with my fans on stage is something beyond words, it’s pure energy. The laughter, happiness, and the dance moves they share with me are priceless. It’s like a beautiful exchange of vibes that lifts us all up, creating an unforgettable experience filled with joy and connection.
What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?
When I’m playing during a set, there’s only one thing that matters to me, the energy and vibe I want to create. I’m fully immersed in the music and the connection with the crowd. At that moment, nothing else in the world matters. I’m 100% focused on delivering an unforgettable experience. It’s a pure love for what I do, and that’s what keeps me driven and inspired every time.
Any side projects you’re working on?
Yes, I’m expanding on my project EXOTIKA, a House Music Showcase. Alongside that, I’m also developing my company KICA Establishment, and running Planet Sound, an AV System rental. These allow me to explore different sides of my creativity and contribute to the vibrant music scene in diverse ways.
How have you refined your craft since you entered the industry?
I have invested significant effort into improving my technical skills, mastering new software tools, and staying up to date of the latest trends. Every project I took offered valuable insights that refine my approach and techniques. As I continue on this journey, I’m eager to push boundaries, refine my craft further, and leave a lasting mark on the music scene.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you this year?
You can definitely expect a lot of fun, new music and big showcases.
Famous last words?
Get ready for brand new old school.
MIX TRACKLIST:
- Clyde P – Moody Mood (Original Mix) [CUFF]
2. Chicks Luv Us, EdiP – Nuthin’ On (Extended Mix) [Kaluki Musik]
3. Nick Morgan – Shook Part 3 (Original Mix) [Calamar Records]
4. Giulio Cadri – Ride (Extended Mix) [Materialism]
5. Trentz – Lighthouse (Original Mix) [Ladeep]
6. 18462197_Travieza_(Original Mix)
7. Luciano, Stigmaz – Travieza
8. Davide Marsala – El Ron
9. Julio Bravo, Joaquin Ranz – Say My Name (Original Mix)
10. Late Delivery, Blas Cordero – Midtown (Original Mix)
11. KICA – Bad M (UNRELEASED)
12. FØRO, Davide Marsala – Got Two Feet [Habitat]
13. Joe Vanditti – Turn Me Up (Original Mix)
14. Mene – That’s Right (Original Mix)
15. Stefano Crabuzza, Alfrenk – Que Paso (Original Mix)
16. Qubiko, Denis Ago, Havoc & Lawn – Swat (Havoc & Lawn Remix) [qude]
17. GOLFOS – OFF THE HOOK (NYC EXTENDED MIX) [GOLFO TRAXX]
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