Magdalena.
Magdalena
Magdalena, sister of renowned producer Solomon, is making strides in the dance music scene. Her introduction to electronic music began when her brother introduced her to a club when she was 15 years old. She is known for her melodic take on house and techno, which is best seen on her Opium EP, released via Warung Recordings.
The EP boasts tangled synths, both melodic and pounding bass, haunting sounds, euphonic melodies and more.
With previous releases on imprints such as Diynamic, Kittball, Foundation dataRebels of the Crusades, the sound of the knee, the rebellion, Anjunadeep and Mood, Magdalena’s sought-after sound has led her to play iconic venues and festivals across the globe.
In addition, she, Solomon and Adriano Trolio opened their own club in Hamburg, called EGO. Magdalena took control of all club management, bookings, artist liaison and later became a resident Deejay. EGO was a success, until its closure due to the team’s ever-expanding commitments in 2014.
Here, Magdalena shares with Forbes her inspiration behind Opiumhow the songs were created, focusing on health and wellness, her favorite song she’s done and more.
Lisa Kocay: Can you describe your sound in three words?
Magdalena: “Deep, humble and hedonistic.”
Kocay: What was the inspiration behind? Opium?
Magdalena: “It reflects my life over the past year or so, capturing moments from my travels, shows and experiences. It was quite a therapeutic process and I think it perfectly expresses my sound and where I am musically.”
Kocay: Can you tell us how the songs came about?
Magdalena: “They were created in my studio in Germany when I had two weeks just for music. It’s always hard when you’re on tour to make or find the time to dedicate to the studio, so when you do get the chance, you get lost in the process. I am satisfied with the result.”
Kocay: How did you choose the title? What are you doing Opium meaning to you?
Magdalena: “The vague intensity of looking someone in the eye, which can feel both invasive and vulnerable – that’s why I called EP Opium.”
Magdalena plays a Teke Support event.
Off-brand project
Kocay: After touring hard during the first nine months of last year, you decided to prioritize your health and well-being, recharging your batteries for the last three months of 2022. Can you discuss this further?
Magdalena: “I have fulfilled my dream of walking the Camino de Santiago. This meant a lot to me as I am religious and it was important to take time for myself. I walked 13-15.5 miles (20-25 kilometers) every day. After that I went to a mountain resort where I practiced meditation, yoga, etc. every day. It was good for the mind, body and soul.”
Kocay: Can you discuss your event label SHADOWS?
Magdalena: “I launched my event label SHADOWS years ago with the aim of creating a relaxed and welcoming environment with a serious music policy so you can focus on losing yourself on the dance floor. We’ve hosted events all over the world and I love embracing the magic of moving from day to night.”
Kocay: What is your favorite song that you have made and what was going on in the studio when you made it?
Magdalena: “The idea for An element came while I was producing the first single,’The mountains of Es Cubells‘. I got these voicemails from my good friend Steve in Paris, which I incorporated into this song. And to me, they represent the spirit of nightlife: to let go and celebrate life in all its aspects.”
Kocay: Do you remember the first electronic music song you heard that made you fall in love with the genre?
Magdalena: “I don’t remember a specific song, but my first clubbing experiences in Hamburg were what made me fall in love with the genre and nightlife in general.”
Kocay: Where would you be today if you didn’t turn to music?
Magdalena: “I think I would probably have become a judge.”
Kocay: If you could go back in time to when you started making music and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?
Magdalena: “Always listen to your mind and don’t try to do what is already being done. Be kind to yourself and don’t push yourself too much physically and mentally. You only have one body, so treat it with respect.”
