Wuki: Blending Sounds and Cultures in the EDM World
Co-signed by titans of electronic music like Skrillex, Diplo, and Valentino Khan, Wuki has firmly established himself as a key player in the ever-evolving realm of dance music remixes. His unique ability to blend genres—from trap and house to electro—has made him a forerunner in the viral dance music scene. Following a headline performance at the North Coast Music Festival, Wuki sat down with EDM House Network to discuss his musical journey, inspirations, and even his love for cannabis.
Atmosphere of North Coast Music Festival
When asked about the vibe at North Coast compared to other festivals, Wuki expressed admiration for the event’s growth and energy over the years. “The vibe in North Coast is awesome. It seems like it just keeps growing every year, and people just love it,” he said. This festive atmosphere allows Wuki to be spontaneous with his set, blending house and bass music depending on the crowd’s energy. “I just do me. I don’t really think about it too much… I just like I play,” he added, highlighting his natural approach to performances.
The Art of Remixing vs. Original Creation
Wuki is well-known for his remixes of iconic tracks like “Ain’t It Fun,” “Sunshine,” and most recently, “Eye of the Tiger.” He explained that his creative process for remixes involves staying true to the original song while making it dance-floor-ready. Unlike many remixers who drastically alter the source material, Wuki emphasizes keeping iconic parts intact. “I try to make a dance floor ready version of the song… It’s just a really great feeling when I get the approval from the original artist,” he shared, reflecting on the rewarding moments of collaboration and recognition.
Regional Influences: Denver vs. Los Angeles
Having roots in Denver before moving to Los Angeles, Wuki noted some regional differences in the electronic music scenes. While Denver is known for its darker, bass-heavy sounds, Wuki feels that his core style remains unchanged. “I just do my thing now,” he stated, explaining that his move to the West Coast has actually influenced him to create “brighter music” thanks to the sunny environment. Despite the varying tastes in each city, Wuki remains driven by his energetic roots.
From Rock Band to EDM Artist
Wuki’s journey began with an electronic rock band in the early 2010s, fueling his passion for high-energy music. “I always liked energetic music… that’s kind of been the common thread with everything,” he remarked. This energetic influence continues to shape his contemporary work, seamlessly blending rock-inspired vigor with electronic beats.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
When asked about stepping outside his usual style, Wuki recounted a recent remix he did for the R&B duo Majid Jordan. This project pushed him into a different musical realm—creating a deep tech sound that diverged from his usual energetic flair. Despite the challenge, working with artists he admires helped him evolve creatively. “I wanted to make it work, so I ended up making this kind of like deep tech thing,” he noted, acknowledging the excitement of experimenting with new sounds.
Pop Influences and Hook Creation
Wuki’s love for pop music also bleeds into his production style. “I’m a pop music junkie… I’m always trying to find a good hook to use,” he explained, mentioning artists like Katy Perry and Sabrina Carpenter as inspirations. For Wuki, crafting memorable hooks is essential to making tracks resonate with the audience, reflecting his fusion of genres and mainstream influences.
The Cannabis Debate: Denver vs. Los Angeles
With the legalization of cannabis in both states, Wuki humorously answered the question of which city boasts better weed. He suggested that Denver might have the edge due to its drier climate, which makes for a more potent and flavorful experience. “At the point where I need meds again… I think Denver weed is better,” he joked, showcasing a casual, personal side of his personality.
Dream Collaborators and Upcoming Releases
Wuki rounded off the conversation with his dream collaboration lineup, imagining a blunt rotation with Tiesto, Carl Cox, Sara Landry, and Subtronics. Additionally, he teased exciting new projects, including a forthcoming remix of “Big Papa” in collaboration with the estate of Notorious B.I.G. This anticipated release follows the massive success of his online remix, indicating Wuki’s growing influence in the music landscape. Another upcoming project involves a remix of Starship’s “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now,” set to drop next month.
As Wuki continues to carve his niche in the EDM world, fans can look forward to innovative sounds that reflect both his roots and the changing landscape of contemporary electronic music.
