Italian DJ and producer Nicola Savogin – better known as NIKO-xDJ – continues to carve his path in the electronic music scene with the release of his new single “Pulse Control.” Known for blending techno, electro, house, pop, and industrial influences, the Italian artist builds his sound around powerful rhythms, melodic atmospheres, and contemporary production techniques designed for both digital listening and club environments. With a growing focus on immersive sound design and dancefloor-driven energy, NIKO-xDJ approaches music as more than entertainment – it is, in his words, a way to create emotion, energy, and connection between people.
His latest track, “Pulse Control,” embodies that philosophy. Built on pulsating beats, deep basslines, and dynamic synthesizers, the single transforms rhythm into the central force of the musical experience. The track unfolds as a sonic journey, beginning with a calm melodic introduction before evolving into a driving rhythmic section designed to captivate listeners and ignite the dancefloor. With its balance of groove, atmosphere, and precision, “Pulse Control” marks a new step in NIKO-xDJ’s artistic evolution, reflecting his ongoing exploration of sound and his commitment to crafting music that resonates in both club settings and live DJ performances.
In this interview, NIKO-xDJ opens up about the origins of his musical identity, the inspiration behind “Pulse Control,” and the creative process that shapes his productions. He discusses the role of melody in expressing emotion, the challenge of balancing rhythm and atmosphere, and how he reads the energy of a crowd during a live set. The conversation also explores his use of modern production tools, his approach to staying innovative in a fast-evolving genre, and what listeners can expect from the next chapter of his journey in electronic music.
- Every producer has a moment when music shifts from passion to purpose. What was the turning point that made you fully commit to becoming NIKO-xDJ?
NIKO-xDJ: Becoming NIKO-xDJ was the most natural way for me to transform my passion for music into something that truly belonged to me. Music, for me, is not just entertainment—it is energy, emotion, and a connection between people. I chose the name NIKO-x because it represents a stronger and more creative version of myself. When I play, I want to create an atmosphere where people can forget everything else and simply live in the moment. Being a DJ means experimenting, combining different sounds, and making the audience vibrate with the same passion I feel when I listen to music. NIKO-x is not just a stage name—it is the identity through which I express my musical vision.
- Your music sits at the crossroads of techno, electro, house, pop, and industrial sounds. How did those influences come together to shape your sonic identity?
NIKO-xDJ: I have always loved these musical genres, especially melodic electronic music. By experimenting and playing with different sounds, I gradually began focusing more on fusion—blending different genres together in a way that works well musically.
- Looking back at your earliest productions, what aspects of your sound have remained consistent, and what has evolved the most over time?
NIKO-xDJ: My productions vary across genres, from electronic pop to house, but what always remains constant is the melody through which I’m able to express my emotions.
- Italy has a strong electronic music culture. How has the Italian scene influenced your approach to DJing and production?
NIKO-xDJ: I’ve had a strong passion for music ever since I first started pressing the keys of a piano or keyboard. When I began working at various events as a DJ, I would often start my sets with my own productions, even though I hadn’t released them yet.
- Your new single “Pulse Control” centers on the idea of rhythm as the driving force of the musical experience. What sparked the concept behind the track?
NIKO-xDJ: Yes, Pulse Control is very rhythmic. I wanted to focus not only on the melodic opening but also on the rhythmic section to give the track a more catchy and engaging touch.
- The title itself suggests a sense of power and precision. What does “Pulse Control” represent for you creatively and emotionally?
NIKO-xDJ: For me, Pulse Control represents exactly that—control. From the melody to the rhythm, it reflects my emotional expression.
- When producing this track, did you start from the rhythm, the bassline, or a specific atmosphere you wanted to create?
NIKO-xDJ: I wanted to create a track that began with the melody to give a sense of calm, and then move into the rhythmic section. I wanted to create that contrast.
- The track is built around strong beats and deep basslines. How do you design a groove that feels powerful on both streaming platforms and large club sound systems?
NIKO-xDJ: For me, simplicity is always important. When it’s combined with the right sound, it creates an engaging groove, while still keeping an ear on the musical trends and sounds that are present today.
- What was the most challenging or unexpected moment during the production of “Pulse Control”?
NIKO-xDJ: The biggest challenge was combining the melody with the rhythmic section.
- When you imagine the perfect moment to drop this track in a DJ set, what does that scene look like?
NIKO-xDJ: I can imagine many scenarios, but the one that excites me most is when a DJ is playing very powerful tracks and then Pulse Control comes in to create a musical break. It could also work perfectly as an intro to a DJ set.
- Your productions often balance minimal structures with intricate textures. How do you decide when a track has the right balance between simplicity and detail?
NIKO-xDJ: Usually, I listen to the track again two or three days after working on it. If it still gives me the same emotions, then I know I’m on the right path.
- Sound design is clearly central to your work. What tools, synths, or techniques do you rely on to sculpt those deep, cinematic atmospheres?
NIKO-xDJ: I mainly rely on VST plugins on my computer connected to a DAW, and I also use AI tools—which are sometimes controversial—but they help me transform and balance the sounds in the best possible way.
- Many producers talk about “finding the groove.” For you, what makes a rhythm truly hypnotic on a dancefloor?
NIKO-xDJ: What makes a rhythm hypnotic on the dancefloor, for me, is finding the right sound that fits the track perfectly. If it also follows the current musical wave, even better.
- How important is storytelling and lyrics in EDM music for you, and do you personally curate all aspects of the songwriting on your tracks?
NIKO-xDJ: They are very important because they truly shape the track. Yes, I personally take care of the songwriting aspects.
- Your tracks are designed not only for listening but also for DJ sets and live environments. How does the dancefloor influence the way you structure your productions?
NIKO-xDJ: Just think about an electronic pop track—it’s great for listening, but if you make a strong remix, everything changes and it becomes perfect for the dancefloor.
- During a live set, how do you read the crowd and decide when to build tension or release energy?
NIKO-xDJ: Usually I start with calmer tracks and then move toward more energetic ones. That’s when you really understand the crowd. With this approach, the audience usually stays engaged until the end.
- What role do atmosphere and emotional arcs play when you’re guiding a crowd through a full DJ performance?
NIKO-xDJ: They play a big role. When melodies are well combined with the rhythm of the track, they can create strong emotional energy. The audience can even dance without a kick or percussion—just with the bass and the melody.
- With “Pulse Control,” do you feel you’re opening a new chapter in your artistic direction?
NIKO-xDJ: I would say yes, because with this style I work better, and I’m also able to give the audience something more—through a sensual melody combined with house/EDM rhythm.
- Electronic music evolves incredibly fast. How do you stay innovative while maintaining a recognizable identity as an artist?
NIKO-xDJ: By constantly researching new sounds, but also by paying attention to what the market is proposing.
- Looking ahead, what can listeners expect next from NIKO-xDJ—more singles, collaborations, or perhaps a larger conceptual project?
NIKO-xDJ: My goal is to keep growing more and more, so I’m aiming for a bigger project in the future—but collaborations would also be something I’d really enjoy.
OFFICIAL LINKS:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/intl-it/track/1g7pLfrO51Z0AMO5iwxeKX?
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/album/id/1881469506
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savogin.nicola?
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savoginnicola/#
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