Multi-modal creative MIN-t recently shared her new offering ‘Hope’, a single which was inspired by trying times in her personal life as well as the current political climate. Based in Berlin, but originally from Poland, MIN-t is the artistic alter ego of producer, singer-songwriter, composer and mix engineer Martyna Kubicz. She has performed over 300 live shows, including festivals like Reeperbahn Festival (DE), Off Festival (PL), Open’er Festival (PL) and Y Not Festival (UK). Last year, she embarked on a European tour with singer-songwriter Saya Noé and electronic pop producer OIEE, where they performed in Budapest, Prague, Berlin, Warsaw, Wrocław and Bochum. MIN-t also graduated from the Berklee College of Music campus in Valencia, Spain, where she was the first Polish woman to be mentored by Susan Rogers, who is known for her work with Prince.
MIN-t describes her sound as genreless, as it’s a blend of electronic music, pop and R’nB, while she draws inspiration from the likes of Aphex Twin, Autechre, Charli xcx, D’Angelo. ‘Hope’ is the debut single from her forthcoming album Before The After, and showcases her love for breakbeat-inspired sounds, while her phenomenal vocals take centre stage. The single was produced and mixed by MIN-t, mastered by Conor Dalton, with songwriting credits going to MIN-t and her sister Patrycja Kubicz.
Stream ‘Hope’ while reading the interview with MIN-t below:
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?
I have pursued music since I was 7 years old. I started with classical piano and performed in musical theatre. When I was 6, my uncle discovered that I had musical talent, and my parents decided to send me to music school. My passion for pop and electronic music emerged in my teenage years, when I also became interested in jazz. I attended many workshops, and I remember playing a Chick Corea piece — that was the first moment I truly felt music. It was a divine experience. From then on, I knew this had to be my life path, and I’ve done everything to pursue it.
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
It really depends — sometimes it’s a feeling, sometimes an idea (like a melody that appears in my head), or just a cool loop I’m working on in Ableton.
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
I can’t live without Ableton and my keytar, which I perform with on stage. I also love ShaperBox — it’s a plugin that lets me create crazy samples by chopping my voice or any input I give it.
What’s your go-to ritual or trick for getting into the creative zone?
I don’t really have a specific ritual — I usually just sit down and try to make things work, and then I gradually get into the zone.
What’s the one item you always keep within arm’s reach while creating or performing?
My lip balm.
How did you ultimately end up defining your sound?
My sound is like a collage — it draws from many influences. The main goal is to keep things fresh and constantly experiment with new sounds and genres. I have a deep love for bass music and breakbeat, but also soul and R&B. Classical music is another major influence because of my 12 years of formal training. I’m also a singer, and experimenting with my voice is a big part of what I do. I wrote my master’s thesis at Berklee College of Music on experimental vocal techniques in alternative pop, so sampling and sound design using my voice is something I love the most.
How has your creative process or perspective shifted since you started your journey?
When I started in 2015, my process was purely intuitive. As I gained more knowledge, I became more aware of the techniques and tools I use. Now I can consciously translate my thoughts into sound — before, it was more of an experiment, which was also a lot of fun.
Walk us through a recording session: what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in the studio?
One of the most memorable moments was when I had a fight with my boyfriend in the studio. After he left, I wrote a song in one hour — it’s now the opening track of the record, and a total banger.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
I work closely with my friend and sister — Arina Korenyu as a co-producer and Patrycja Kubicz as my lyricist — so it’s an all-female team 🙂
Any side projects you’re working on?
I’m currently creating jingles for a TV station.
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
Creams.
What’s the strangest or most surprising song currently on your playlist?
‘Holding Out for a Hero’ by Frou Frou, from the Shrek 2 soundtrack. Frou Frou is Imogen Heap’s band, and I never expected to find them on a Shrek soundtrack — haha.
Which song, album or playlist do you never get sick of no matter how many times you listen to it?
Caroline Polacheck – Desire, I Want to Turn Into You
Are there any unexpected hobbies or projects you’re exploring outside of your main work?
I recently started dancing electro, and I also love to cook.
If your life and career were an album, what would its title be, and what’s the hidden track only your fans would know?
I think my life right now is Before the After like my upcoming album — and the hidden track would be ‘Last Day’
Give us a glimpse into the future – what surprises or milestones are coming up for you this year?
Releasing the album, starting to produce more for other artists, and becoming a 100% full-time freelancer. Keep your fingers crossed.
Famous last words?
Keep holding on.
Follow MIN-t:
Website – Instagram – Facebook – Soundcloud – TikTok – Youtube – Spotify
