IN CONVERSATION WITH RAVEN
Interview by SAMO ŠAJN
Raven is a Berlin-based DJ, producer, and vocalist known for her dark, hard-hitting sets that blend acid, trance, and rave. With releases on cult labels like Rekids and features on Amelie Lens’ EXHALE compilations, Raven has quickly risen as a regular in the international underground scene, playing at iconic venues like Berghain and festivals such as Awakenings. Her sound, influenced by both pre-2000s techno and forward-thinking beats, is a renegade fusion of genres that always surprises.
Your musical journey started with hosting illegal raves in Toronto. How did those early experiences shape your sound and approach to DJing today?
My experience with Techno was always DIY, queer, and POC, and that remains my scene today. It was never meant to be a political statement—it was simply inclusive. While I’ve faced discrimination, I don’t focus on it because I’ve always had a strong community around me. Starting my career by creating these events gave me the confidence to step into any room or onto any stage, knowing I’m there for a valid reason—not because of my skin colour or gender. For me, community is everything, and music brings us together, both figuratively and literally. We’re not here to judge; we’re here to enjoy ourselves.
With your involvement in Amelie Lens’ EXHALE events and playing at iconic venues like Berghain, how do you approach creating unique experiences for different audiences?
When prepping for a set, I always have an idea of where I want to go. I usually arrive an hour early to check out the sound on the dancefloor and get a feel for the crowd, which helps me decide what tracks will connect and pull them into my vibe. I go through phases with music, so what you hear from me is always based on what’s inspiring me at that moment. I love mixing old school tracks with new school ones to show their connection, and I’m not afraid to play a track that was popular two years ago. Good music is good music—if it bangs, it bangs.
How do your vocals fit into your creative process as both a DJ and producer?
Vocals definitely evolve with the track for me. I started as a singer, so vocals will always be my favorite instrument, even if it’s something simple like a repeated phrase, a laugh, or a gasp, as in 'Metal on Metal.' Nothing I make ever feels complete without something recorded on the mic. Vocals help me shape the narrative of the track, guiding how it should feel and where it should go.
What’s one piece of advice you'd give to someone trying to break into the underground electronic music scene today?
My advice would be to dig back—way, way back. I’m not saying you have to play older tracks, but having some knowledge of early electronic music can give you a unique perspective. When everyone else is doing the same thing, it’s important to find your own style and set yourself apart. People can always sense authenticity, and that’s what draws them in. Also, don’t just expect your friends to show up at your gigs—return the favour! Go out, support your friends, and show up for other local DJs and events.
What is the story behind your track “Phone Sex,” and how did it come to be released on Sara Landry’s HEKATE?
Frankie Watch had been sending me his IDs, and I was always impressed by how fresh they were; I played them out a lot. One day, he reached out over SoundCloud and suggested we make a track together, which I happily accepted. We created 'Phone Sex' with the goal of making a club hit, and just as we finished the premaster, Sara hit me up for a track for HEKATE, so I thought it would be perfect for the label. Working with Frankie was refreshing because we shared a mutual passion for music and respected each other’s input, which is evident in the track. It ended up being played on all the biggest stages, from EDC to Tomorrowland, as well as in underground clubs everywhere, and I’m really proud of that collab!
With influences ranging from The Ring to Joey Beltram, how do you keep your sets exciting and fresh?
I’m always digging, and I always check my promo emails. I love my promos! Most of the tracks I play on stage, I have a personal connection with the producers who made them. It’s a huge pleasure to be able to share music from lesser-known producers and platform them now that I have the opportunity. They always get hype when they see a video or hear their track in a mix (I do too!). If I find an artist, I like I will always support them and shout them out. No gatekeeping from my side.
What are your thoughts on the current state of techno and the resurgence of pre-2000s sounds?
As I mentioned I’m a big fan of early electronic music. There’s a difference, though, in paying homage and copying. I think a lot of music these days are a bit too ‘on the nose’ with the sound and it kind of gets a bit gimmicky. But there will be and always has been trends in music, so it’s natural. It is what it is.
Can you share any details on upcoming projects or releases you're excited about?
Right now, I’m focussed on collaborating with artists inside and outside of Techno. My mission is to create great music whether my name is at the forefront or not. I don’t want to give away too much but keep an eye on me!
