Interview | Questions & Answers With YouNotUs

YouNotUs have a new single with Louis III titled “Samba,” which came out last month. In this interview, you can explore more about the Berlin-based duo, the track in question, and their plans for summer 2022. Happy reading!

1 — How would you describe YouNotUs’ signature sound?

We would describe our sound as a mixture of Dance and House with many influences from the 90s. We also sometimes love to build songs around strong melodies that are already known and create something new with them.

2 — We’re sure you’ll agree that dance music is a life-long love. How did you first discover electronic music and club culture?

Of course, we agree! When we were younger, we always wanted to make music, played in bands, and so on. But getting older we both started to dive more and more into electronic music, Tobi by DJing and Greg by producing. So, it was definitely a process of a few years of falling in love with electronic music.

3 — Your latest track “Samba” is a sizzling hot summer anthem! Can you tell us a little bit about how the track came to be?

Growing up with the original song “Samba de Janeiro” it’s an all-time favourite of ours and an all-time earworm as well. Tobi put it on our shared ideas note years ago and when last year we got the permission to work on this song, we immediately got our hands on it! We always love the challenge to build a song around such a big hook and after 47 versions, it’s finally out!

4 — Where do you look for inspiration when writing new tracks?

We tend to get inspired a lot by the 90s. Since we grew up at that time and listen to a lot of music, our songs still have those influences. Additionally, we are able to work with a lot of great people on our productions, which helps as well. And last, being on the road, on tour, gathering so many impressions, and interacting with so many different people is also a huge source of inspiration for us.

5 — How has the city of Berlin and its renowned nightlife influenced your music and career so far?

Heavily! We met each other in Berlin, which is why YouNotUs would have never existed without us moving here. We also met our whole team in this city.

Berlin is the biggest player in Germany when it comes to the music business. So, it helps a lot to live here. Our life would have been totally different without moving to Berlin!

6 — Not only do you get the party started behind the decks, but you also perform in a live band. Can you tell us more about how this live experience comes together on stage? And what are crowd reactions like?

It creates a whole different connection between us, and the audience compared to a DJ-only set! We always have one or two singers with us, a brass section with trumpet, trombone, and saxophone, as well as a live drummer. We both are playing instruments like guitar, synths, and sample pads and it’s a lot of fun for us too! The crowd really appreciates the songs being performed live with the whole band and gives back so much energy for that.

7 — Who would be a dream DJ/collective that you would you love to perform a back-to-back set with?

If it would still be possible, we’d have to say Avicii. We loved his music from the beginning when he was still Tim Berg. He was always a big idol of ours. Another DJ that comes to mind is Zedd. He is an incredible musician, producer, and DJ! Going to the studio with that guy would be amazing. But regarding a back-to-back set, we’d love to do it with The Chainsmokers. Their energy on stage is incredible!

8 — What advice would you give to new artists trying to build and make a name for themselves in the dance music industry?

Stay motivated, become the best in what you do, and connect with other people. Luck is only a mixture of preparation and opportunity. So, if you train and learn to become really good at that what you want to do, there will come an opportunity eventually. Be ready for that. Have a lot of patience though, it can really take a while.

9 — When you’re not working on new music or live sets, how do you like to spend your time?

Tobi: I like to go for a run or play some soccer. Since there isn’t a lot of free time I also try to spend as much time as possible with my friends and family.

Greg: For me, it’s kind of the same, friends and family are very important to me. Besides that, I am really into flying. So, I take lessons for my helicopter license whenever possible.

10 — What are your plans for the summer of 2022?

This summer we finally get to play live again. So, the next months are packed with festivals and events. We are so happy to celebrate with all the people again and can’t wait for every single show. Also, we had a lot of time in the studio in the last two years which means there is a lot of new music ready for release. Stay tuned!

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