Sweden has produced some of the most significant names in the music world: ABBA, Roxette, Ace of Base, and countless others. Today’s interview is with Darin, perhaps Sweden’s most successful pop artist, with several Grammy wins and eight number-one albums. To talk about his latest track Electric, Darin joined us for a brief chat.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your new single Electric and what it represents to you personally?
For me, Electric is a memory. It’s a memory of a very special night in Palma, Mallorca where I live. But it was a night of highs and lows. My best friend Lewis told me he was going to leave Mallorca, and in a few days’ time! It was also the night I met the love of my life for the first time. It was a crazy intense feeling I didn’t expect and wasn’t prepared for. I sometimes describe it like a magnetic pull and I think the song touches on that feeling and that force. That all happened on a night that my closest friends were there with me to celebrate my birthday – definitely a night to remember!
In what ways did the production process of Electric contribute to its infectious energy and sound?
It’s produced in a house/dance way, so the beat is definitely made for people to dance to. I think the topline (lyrics and melodies) could have a different costume, but I like the fact that it all started with this beat. And that something energetic and uplifting could also be meaningful.
Your music has touched on a range of genres, from synth-pop to folk ballads. What draws you to explore an array of musical styles, and how does Electric fit into your overall discography?
I see my artistic style as always evolving, it changes with me. I like to experiment with different sounds and genres. Right now, it feels colourful, exciting, energetic. As long as it feels honest it will feel right to me. Personal growth is definitely a theme across my music. It’s the things we all feel, things that are relatable I would say. I write about love, relationships, life and the journey we are all on really. I love strong melodies that make you want to sing along. People only feel energy if you feel it yourself, so I always think that’s important in my music, for it to be heartfelt, whether uptempo or slow. So I think Electric just naturally takes its place in that context.
That all sounds great when you say it, but I guess I don’t really see myself that way. I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished and the songs I’ve written, but I feel like every time I write a song or release something new it’s the first time again, like I start from scratch – which I am doing in countries outside of Sweden at the moment. And I think for me that’s been a good thing.
As you look toward the future, what can fans expect from this new era you’re launching with Electric, and what is in store for your future endeavors?
I just had so much fun doing my Arena Tour last year, and I see live music taking a big place in my future projects. I would like to do as much of that as possible going forward. Electric is definitely a song I want to perform live!
Finally, for many artists reading this, what advice would you give to those up-and-coming in the industry
I will always say that surrounding yourself with good people is very important – people who understand you artistically and share your vision. That was incredibly important for me when I reflect on starting out, and reminds me how important it still is now