Britta Arnold, a Berlin-based DJ and producer, channels the city’s dynamic energy into her hypnotic beats and deep grooves. Since co-founding the iconic Bar25 label in 2006, she has performed at renowned clubs and festivals across Europe, Asia, and America, pushing musical boundaries with her seamless blend of electronic, acid, and cosmic sounds. Her recent work includes releases on Kiosk ID, MiZi MuZiK, and Around Midnight, marking a fresh chapter in her sonic journey, while collaborations with Mira, Sascha Cawa, and Tatyana have brought new depth to her evolving sound. In addition to her latest releases, Britta boasts an extensive back catalog, including tracks on well-established labels like Katermukke, Kindish, Harthouse, and Heinz. Over the years, she has remixed tracks from artists like Satori and Stavroz, and her own music has been reinterpreted by legends such as Claude VonStroke, Marco Resmann, and Ruede Hagelstein. Beyond her studio work, her popular GRRR Mit BRRR party series at Kater Blau continues to be a beloved fixture in Berlin’s nightlife scene, further cementing her profound impact on the city’s electronic culture.
We caught up with Britta to dive into her creative process, upcoming projects, and the inspirations behind her latest releases.
Set the tone for us. Why the arts?
The arts found me, as I have been surrounded by amazing creative artists from a very young age. I tried to be in an office, but the dancefloor called my name.
Which comes first when you’re producing – the sound or the idea?
Sometimes the sound, sometimes the idea. When I do a remix, the sounds are already there, and I have an idea to make something new out of the original. But when I produce original tracks, I’m just playing around with sounds—mostly no idea in my head, just having fun exploring and finding sounds I like.
Does your material feature any collaborations?
Yes, I collaborate a lot with Sascha Cawa, and we have a lot of new tracks coming soon. I also spend time in the studio with my friend Tatyana from Ibiza; she has an amazing voice. Our new release is just out, so check it! There’s also something exciting brewing with Mira that I’m really proud to be a part of.
What’s on your current playlist?
In all my sets, I play a track by Pavel Petrov—I love the power and the strange vocals. I also enjoy listening to Augustin Giri and old Maceo Plex tracks. I always mix some minimal classics with new stuff I’m finding every week.
Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.
It’s always an energy exchange. When I see people smiling and enjoying the moment, I feel more connected and focus on them. I like DJ booths that are at the same level as the dancers, or even in the middle, with people surrounding me. It’s more about shared energy than just waiting for entertainment.
What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?
I’ve started experimenting with the Modular System recently – super exciting.
Take us through a day in the recording studio.
My studio is at Holzmarkt, a cultural hub in Berlin. When I arrive, I go next door to Sascha Cawa’s studio, and we always start with a matcha latte at the café. Then, I go through some promos, get inspired, and open my projects based on my mood. I use Ableton and some synthesizers to create a groove. I spend a lot of time experimenting to find the right hook, which can take a while, but I love working with mini sounds and FX. The next step is always the bass. Sascha helps me with mixing and mastering—I learn a lot from him.
Was there a specific moment in your life where you thought, “this is what I want to do”?
Before I started DJing, I played a live act for my best friend’s birthday in 2006 at Bar25, and I was so excited. After that, I knew I wanted to make more music.
What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?
I always have a spray called Chuya from Wild Wisdom—it’s a calming perfume that helps me focus. I also always have Mate with me, it’s my go-to drink.
Any emerging artists on your radar?
There are so many talented artists out there. One who always impresses me with his long sets is Steve Challier. I also see a lot of amazing female artists like Tanika, Pauli Pocket, and Josephine de retour.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
I can only be creative when I’m healthy and feeling well, so I focus on taking care of my body with good food and sports. I love Pilates, and of course, being surrounded by family and friends.
Take us through your collection of gear, tech or software that accompanies your creative expression.
I’ve been using Yamaha RM1x and Korg Electribe MX since the start. Now, I have a Sub 37, Native Maschine, Roland TR8, and Elektron Digitak. I also use Ableton and love UAD plugins. I swear by EMES speakers, they’re amazing.
Any side projects you’re working on?
Sascha Cawa and I just finished a 25-minute music piece for the New Year’s Eve celebration at Holzmarkt/Kater Blau. We created this for a big laser show instead of fireworks, and 5 tracks from this piece will be released in June on vinyl.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you this year?
I have a new EP coming out on the Katerblau Label called Kiosk ID, with collaborations from Tatyana, Justin Marchacos, and remixes from Brian Cid, Steve Challier, and Sascha Cawa. I also have a remix for Traffic Beats on Around Midnight, and a remix for Features Complete. Plus, there’s a collaboration with Mira on her new label MiZiMuZiK. Expect many more secret releases soon!
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