Sofia Rodina is a fast rising star in the new wave of artists coming through the Russian techno scene. We discovered Sofia when Nina Kraviz sung her praises on Instagram during Present Perfect festival earlier this year. Having previously held a residency at Mosaique, Sofia has now joined the acclaimed Arma17 crew where artists like Nastia paved their careers. Over the last year, Sofia has built a steady touring schedule, playing at least 10 times a month all over Europe. Some of the key dates include Funkhaus Berlin, MDRNTY Cruise, Sea Dance Festival and will be rounding off the year at Epizode Festival in Vietnam. As Sofia prepares for her first concert, spanning across electronic music, poetry and classical elements, we get the lowdown on her first experiences with music, the scene in Russia, when we can expect to see the release of her original productions and her aim as an artist.
https://soundcloud.com/arma17/sofia-rodina-a
We recently discovered you through a post shared by Nina Kraviz. Could you share with us a bit of your back story of how your relationship with music began and where it all started for you?
I have loved music since my childhood! My parents sent me to study at a music school (piano class), but I studied there for only half a year when I was just a child – now I can play the piano and harp. I started playing DJ sets 5 years ago. I traveled with my friend and our journey began in Africa and ended in Bali. It was in Bali when I started playing and continued to play when I eventually returned to Russia.
Having grown up in Russia and now very much part of the new generation of artists there, what are your thoughts on the current scene and how do you see it progressing?
I think that in Russia at the moment there are a lot of talented musicians, DJs, producers, and every year there’s more and more. It is certainly very happy and inspiring.
Do you feel that Russia has influenced your sound / style?
Honestly I don’t know! I wouldn’t say that for me there is some kind of ‘Russian Style’. I’m sure that internally I’m definitely stronger because of Russia. When I started my journey, the guys I was friends with laughed at the fact that I started to play or behaved strangely when I was playing. Now everything has changed of course.
A lot of new artists are going down the residency route and you currently hold one at Mosaique – what do you think is the most beneficial part of having a residency? How has it impacted your career and the way you approach your sets?
Now I’m a resident of Arma17, this is something that I’m most proud of. I have a lot of love for the team there and for me, it’s definitely a great joy to be part of such a cool team of professionals.
In your bio it says that you’re currently working on your own original material, how would you describe your sound? When do you think we can expect to hear it?
It’s true! In a week I’ll play my first concert and I’ve been working hard on it. It will contain my electronic music, a little bit of poetry and prose as well as small works on the piano. Almost all of my writing. I’m a little worried and practicing everyday, trying to come up with something new. I like to transmit ‘love and lyrics’ in my music at the same time. Of course, sometimes I upload something to the internet but very rarely. I think that this concert is, for me, a report of my work. When this is over, I think I’ll start focusing on writing an album.
What would be your dream label to release on?
My dream label… I like a lot of labels and they are all different. But for me, the label I would like to release on would probably be more focused on classical music.
Who would you say are your main influences in life?
Most of all in life I am inspired by strong and individual people, who always remain honest to themselves. I love people very much.
What is your aim as an artist?
My goal as an artist is to exchange energy. I have something to say and I always try to convey this in my DJ sets, music, poetry and pictures. I always try to convey my story, my mood to people, and in exchange I receive great energy and gratitude.
Sofia Rodina will play Epizode Festival on the 28th December – buy here.