The Rise of WIN WIN: DJing in Seattle and Beyond
Ricky Win, better known as WIN WIN, has carved a niche in the Seattle EDM scene over the past six years. Hailing from Norway, where his brother was a raver during the ’90s, Win’s passion for music ignited during the challenging times of COVID-19. Through intimate house parties, vibrant boat parties, and his own events, WIN WIN transitioned from a passionate hobbyist to a recognized DJ in the club and festival circuits.
A Musical Journey Begins
WIN WIN’s introduction to music can be traced back to his childhood in Norway. “My older brother was a raver back in the ’90s,” he shares. “He used to blast techno and trance from his room, and I often invited friends over to experience the magic of electronic music.” Though he didn’t fully grasp the rave culture at the time, those early memories laid the foundation for his future career. After relocating to Seattle for family reasons, WIN WIN found himself immersed in a city rich with a growing house music scene.
Explosion into the Seattle Scene
WIN WIN’s journey truly began during the pandemic when he started hosting house and boat parties. “It started just for fun,” he reflects. “But it rapidly escalated into a passion.” The Seattle house scene’s growth played a significant role in his artistic development, leading him to clubs and festivals as his reputation grew.
Influences and Collaborations
Musically, WIN WIN looks up to several key figures in the EDM landscape. “Artists like Fisher, Chris Lake, John Summit, and Matroda are my biggest inspirations,” he notes, acknowledging the influential impact these creators have had on him. His collaborations have also been noteworthy, with a standout partnership being with Bijou. “That track is energetic tech house and bass house, and getting it signed on Fisher’s label was huge for me,” he shares, indicating his aspirations to continue collaborating with other talented artists.
Expanding Horizons
While WIN WIN has made waves in Seattle, he is not unfamiliar with international stages. He has performed in Canada, Vietnam, and Portland, marking his presence beyond his hometown. He is currently focused on expanding his footprint. “I’ve never really played outside of Seattle except for a few spots, but I’m working on sharing my music with a wider audience,” he expresses, hinting at future projects that are still under wraps.
The Joy of Performance
For WIN WIN, the essence of DJing lies in the connection with the crowd. “My favorite part is playing to a crowd that’s completely in sync with the music,” he explains. It’s about sharing a journey where everyone is genuinely vibing. This shared experience is what motivates him to continually refine his craft and engage with audiences on a deeper level.
The Future of WIN WIN
As he looks ahead, WIN WIN envisions a future filled with music releases and increased engagement on platforms like TikTok. “I want to get my name out there and ultimately tour more, but Seattle will always feel like home,” he affirms. With the city’s similar weather patterns to Norway, it holds a special place in his heart. However, his ambition reflects a clear desire to reach new heights in his career.
Balancing Act: Music and Real Estate
Alongside his burgeoning DJ career, WIN WIN manages to balance a day job in real estate. “Music serves as a stress release,” he explains. Amidst the responsibilities of adult life, he finds solace in creating and performing music—an essential part of his identity. “It gives me peace and relaxation,” he adds, recognizing the shifting landscape of music preferences. “It’s exciting to see more people gravitating towards electronic music now.”
For those in and around Seattle, catching WIN WIN on the decks is a must. With an energetic spirit and a drive to create unforgettable experiences, he is undoubtedly an artist to watch in the evolving EDM scene.
