Swiss-based DJ and producer JOHANNSON has returned with his uplifting new single ‘Rise Up’, released on August 8th, 2025 via Glasgow Underground. The track continues his momentum after a string of standout releases that have amassed over 355,000 streams and earned support from industry heavyweights including Jamie Jones, David Penn, Dennis Cruz, and Sam Divine. Behind the moniker is Nenad Jovanovic, a veteran of Switzerland’s club scene with more than 25 years of experience performing across Europe. Born in Vukovar, Croatia and now based in Zurich, JOHANNSON channels his lifelong love of electronic music, inspired by the likes of Jean Michel Jarre, Vangelis, and Giorgio Moroder, into a sound that blends Afro and Tech House with melodic depth and emotional resonance. With ‘Rise Up’, he offers a vibrant, percussive journey that captures both the energy of the dancefloor and the warmth of his musical roots.
Paint us a picture: what sparked your passion for the arts in the first place? Was there a single moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue this path?
There was no specific moment; it all happened gradually since my teenage years. It started with tapes from my father, who listened to the music of Kraftwerk, Jean-Michel Jarre, Vangelis, Giorgio Moroder, and Jan Hammer on heavy rotation. And I also spent a lot of time in front of the TV watching MTV. I think that’s why I’m very open-minded musically today, because I’ve listened to various music styles since my teens.
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
I always let myself be guided by feelings and emotions, whether it’s producing music or DJing. My personal musical motto is: It’s all about mixed emotions.
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
I could never make music without the Sylenth1 VST. It’s essential for me because of its old-school sounds.
What’s your go-to ritual or trick for getting into the creative zone?
To inspire myself, I often listen to different kinds of music, both old and new. It’s like an addiction for me to constantly search for music I don’t yet know.
What’s the one item you always keep within arm’s reach while creating or performing?
Simply a bottle of water 🙂
How did you ultimately end up defining your sound?
To be honest, I’ll never definitively find my sound, as I’m constantly reinventing myself. I get bored quickly doing the same thing for too long.
How has your creative process or perspective shifted since you started your journey?
I release fewer tracks, but I make sure that every track that is released has a high recognition value. Be it the vocals, melodies, or grooves, it should be memorable for the listeners.
Walk us through a recording session: what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in the studio?
The moment I remember most vividly is when I completely finished the first track. Everyone knows the problem of having hundreds of unfinished projects, but the first completed track is a real milestone.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
I’d love to do a track with Hugel sometime. He’s just as obsessed with music as I am.
Any side projects you’re working on?
Yes, I also run a monthly radio show and am involved in various projects (party label, record label, producer collaborations, etc.).
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
Emery Bex. A good friend of mine from Switzerland and an outstanding producer and DJ. He definitely deserves more recognition, but he will undoubtedly make his way.
What’s the strangest or most surprising song currently on your playlist?
Disco Lines & Tinashe – ‘No Broke Boys’
I love such cheesy dance pop music.
Which song, album or playlist do you never get sick of no matter how many times you listen to it?
MFSB – ‘Love Is The Message’
I never get tired of it.
Are there any unexpected hobbies or projects you’re exploring outside of your main work?
I’ve been working part-time as a dog trainer for a few weeks now.
If your life and career were an album, what would its title be, and what’s the hidden track only your fans would know?
The title would be: time waits for no one.
Give us a glimpse into the future – what surprises or milestones are coming up for you this year?
From January 2026 to April 2026, I have my first DJ residency in the Swiss Alps. Otherwise, it’s just a matter of continuing to work hard and release good music.
Famous last words?
Guys, be open-minded. Good music knows no genre boundaries.
Follow JOHANNSON:
Instagram – Facebook – X – Soundcloud – TikTok – Youtube – Spotify
