In conversation with Gassan

Gassan is one of the most popular DJ and producer from Kazakhstan , resident of the famous labels Exx Muzik, 3000Grad, ICONYC, Sapient Robots. His tracks occupy the top lines of the Beatport Indie Dance chart, the last two tracks Don’t Wake Up and Galaxy occupied the first line of the Top 100 Hype Indie Dance.

• “Move” is a collaborative project you created with Rvckhimov and K Assel. How did this collaboration come about, and what did each of you bring to the track?

This is an interesting work and collaboration—the release is just a few days away! Indie Dance was my starting point; many of my tracks in this genre are played by DJs around the world. Lately, I’ve delved more into Afro House, but I haven’t abandoned Indie Dance—Move is proof of that! The initial idea for the track was mine, then Rvckhimov joined in, and together we finalized it. We struggled to find the right vocals, but K Assel helped us by suggesting some changes to the track’s structure. Thanks to this collaboration, we created a top Indie Dance track with shades of Melodic sound.

• You share a special bond with Rvckhimov, being friends as well as collaborators. How does this friendship influence your music?

Yes, he is an amazing, talented, and very open-minded person from Uzbekistan. We work very well together, having already released many tracks, with plenty more to come. Collaborating is easy for us, and most importantly, we share similar musical tastes! I’m also currently working with one of my friends, a producer from Kazakhstan named La4and, and we have several collaborations in the pipeline.

• Your tracks “Don’t Wake Up” and “Galaxy” topped the Beatport Top 100 Hype Indie Dance chart. How did you feel about achieving such a milestone?

It was incredible—I even got goosebumps! These two tracks are very special to me. I play Don’t Wake Up at every show; it works so well on the dance floor. Honestly, I feel like listening to them right now! I hope Move will also reach first place!

• How would you describe your evolution as an artist, from your beginnings to becoming one of the most popular DJs in Kazakhstan?

Oh, that’s a tough but interesting question! I’m always happy to tell everyone that I’m from Kazakhstan! I started my career back in 2011, during the heyday of Trance. Back then, I played Progressive Trance, adored Armada Music releases, and listened to every A State of Trance episode. I organized Trance events for many years. Then came a long hiatus when I was almost entirely detached from music. Four years ago, I decided to return to the industry more professionally. Since then, I’ve been moving forward. With each new release, I feel stronger, working hard on my sound and social media presence—which are now crucial for any artist.

• You are a resident of renowned labels such as Exx Muzik, 3000Grad, ICONYC, and Sapient Robots. What does working with these labels mean to you, and how have they shaped your musical style?

At different stages of my creative journey, I’ve collaborated with these labels, and I treat each of them with great respect. Exx Muzik was instrumental at the start of my career. One of my most successful releases, Keep It, came out on Sapient Robots this year, and my upcoming release, Move, will also be released there. I’ve stayed in touch with 3000Grad and hope to collaborate with them again in the future.

• Kazakhstan’s music scene is growing. How do you think your work has helped bring the country into the spotlight of the electronic music world?

Yes, the electronic music scene in Kazakhstan is growing! This year, we hosted Argy with Beatport’s support and a Mahmut Orhan show. The local Spekto festival series also organized events featuring talented producers like Township Rebellion, Marc DePulse, and Rafael Cerato. The Zvuk collective brings a unique underground Techno sound to the scene, hosting artists from Berlin and beyond. Soon, Paul van Dyk and Paul Oakenfold will perform here, and I couldn’t be happier! I always tell international artists and labels about Kazakhstan and the fact that people here are passionate about dance music.

• When composing a track, where do you draw your inspiration from? Do you have any specific rituals or methods to spark creativity?

I often feel inspired after performances. The energy I get from the audience is incredible, and traveling positively influences my creativity. It makes me want to create and produce new tracks.

• Is there a particular moment or performance in your career that stands out as especially meaningful to you?

Returning to the world of electronic music after a long break has been a major highlight for me. I’m glad everything worked out, and I’m now moving forward toward new goals. One of the brightest moments of this journey was performing in Albania this summer. I got to enjoy the beautiful sea, a stunning country, and energetic crowds on the dance floor.

• What are your future goals as an artist? Are there any new projects or collaborations you can share with us?

I have many goals and plans. I try to stay on top of musical trends and will release a lot of exciting music in various genres. By the end of the year, Rvckhimov and I will release two strong Afro House tracks: Satalana on the renowned Italian label Union Records and Dado Nado on the South African label Xpressed.

• What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers who want to make it in the international scene?

Be actively involved in your development—musically and in terms of media presence. Build connections and communicate. Most importantly, be patient. Everything will fall into place if you believe in yourself and never give up!

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