The Rise of Sarah de Warren: A Journey Through Dance Music
A Voice to Remember
Sarah de Warren has become one of dance music’s most sought-after vocalists, establishing herself with her mesmerizing toplines and impactful songwriting across a range of genres including trance, techno, and house. What began as humble bedroom demos shared on SoundCloud has evolved into a flourishing career, with collaborations featuring some of the biggest names in the industry. Her unique ability to deliver emotionally resonant vocals has made her a favorite among fans and producers alike.
Fresh Releases and New Directions
In the midst of her burgeoning career, de Warren has just released a fresh run of tracks, including “How This Ends,” “What U Like,” “LICK IT,” and “Girl on Girl.” These new releases reflect her growing confidence as an artist stepping further into the spotlight. Ahead of her upcoming performance at MARQUEE Singapore on March 13, she sat down with Bandwagon to share insights about her early influences, collaborative processes, and her evolving identity as a touring DJ.
Early Influences: A Musical Melting Pot
De Warren has cited a diverse array of musical influences that stretch beyond the dance music genre. Growing up, she found herself captivated by bands like System of a Down, Placebo, and Muse. On the softer side, singer-songwriters like Dido and Lykke Li resonated deeply with her. She emphasizes that genre was irrelevant; what mattered most were the melodies and lyrics that were catchy and infectious.
From Bedroom Demos to Dance Floors
Her entry into the world of dance music was serendipitous. As a teenager, de Warren began producing music in her bedroom and connected with other aspiring musicians on SoundCloud. This collaboration allowed her to share her vocals and contribute to their beats—a combination that ultimately helped her gain recognition within the EDM scene.
The Essence of Collaboration
When collaborating with other producers, de Warren aims to infuse her work with both emotional depth and creative flair. For her, the songwriting process is about finding a balance between uniqueness and accessibility. Her lyrics often embody themes of empowerment, while her melodies are designed to be addictive, creating songs that resonate well on the dancefloor.
The DJ Experience: An Evolving Perspective
Stepping into the role of a touring DJ has fundamentally altered de Warren’s approach to music creation. She now writes with her audience in mind, using the feedback from her live performances to hone her craft. This shift from introspective songwriting to a more communal experience allows her to create music that not only speaks to her but also connects with her fans.
A Dazzling Creative Phase
Recently, de Warren has embraced a variety of musical styles, releasing tracks that delve into both techno and trance, while also experimenting with tech house vibes. It’s a reflection of her artistic versatility and willingness to explore new sonic territories.
Reviving Forgotten Gems
One of her standout tracks, “How This Ends,” was almost forgotten until it was discovered by the likes of Cosmic Gate and AVIRA. The duo breathed new life into the song, transforming it into a beautiful melodic trance anthem. De Warren expresses gratitude for this revival, highlighting how collaborative efforts can resurrect and enhance past creations.
A Unique Solo Venture
Her recent single “What U Like” marks a significant moment in her career as it’s the first solo release in a while. This track is designed to blend radio appeal with club-ready energy. De Warren didn’t overthink the creative process; instead, she focused on producing a song that felt authentically her, leading to a catchy anthem that has gained traction on both Beatport and US dance radio.
Balancing Setlists as a DJ
Creating a balanced DJ set can be challenging, especially when integrating her own music, collaborative hits, and tracks from fellow producers. While she comes prepared with a setlist, the dynamic nature of DJing often leads her to adapt on the fly. Emphasizing the importance of reading the room, she finds joy in having longer sets to incorporate a mix of her tracks and support for her peers.
Excitement for Upcoming Shows
As de Warren gears up for her performance at MARQUEE Singapore, she expresses her excitement for this being her first show in the country as well as kicking off her debut tour of Asia and Australia. She feels honored to perform at such a prestigious venue, having heard commendable things about it from colleagues and fans alike.
Upcoming Projects on the Horizon
Looking ahead, de Warren is enthusiastic about the year that lies ahead. She is set to play at EDC Vegas following her Asia and Australia tour and is eager for the release of her EP in July. Furthermore, she teases several collaborations that are poised to make waves on festival stages this summer.
With a unique blend of emotion, creativity, and a strong connection with her audience, Sarah de Warren is undoubtedly an artist on the rise, ready to take her mark on the world stage.
