Interview with Yozé: Battling Cancer, Breaking Barriers & Rising with Drumcode
Published: 20 February 2025
Watch the Full Interview Here:
Key Takeaways from Our Interview with Yozé
1. From Athlete to Techno Producer
Grew up playing violin and piano before becoming a national-level basketball player
Chose basketball over music initially due to physical demands
Health issues forced her to leave sports and sparked her interest in music production
Began producing techno from her hospital bed, learning through experimentation
2. Musical Style & Influences
Started producing techno around 2018–2019 with a focus on peak-time, melodic, and faster beats
Inspired heavily by artists like Sam Wolf, Rebel Boy, Space 92, UMEK, and T78
Admits to initially limiting herself to a narrow techno style, later expanding her sound
Believes exploring different genres and fresh artists boosts creativity
3. Challenges as a Female Producer
Faced skepticism and bias in male-dominated production workshops and industry spaces
Dealt with rumors about “ghost producers” and being chosen for looks rather than skill
Emphasizes the importance of hard work, networking, and persistence to overcome stereotypes
4. Competitions and Breakthroughs
Won multiple competitions including a production contest in Istanbul and the Drumcode remix competition
These wins provided crucial tools, exposure, and confidence to advance her career
Encourages artists to seize every opportunity and not fear rejection or criticism
5. Battling Cancer & Music as Therapy
Underwent multiple rounds of chemo that temporarily stopped her from listening to music
Lost ability to sing during treatment but gradually returned to vocal lessons post-recovery
Describes music as her “doctor” and a source of healing both physically and mentally
Learned profound life lessons about self-competition and positivity during recovery
6. Creative Process & Signature Sound
Open-minded approach, constantly seeking detailed feedback from peers
Uses simple, creative techniques with Ableton stock plugins to craft her sound
Still evolving her signature sound, focusing on emotional depth and connection with listeners
7. The Drumcode Moment
Received the Drumcode remix competition acceptance email moments before a gig
Felt overwhelmed and emotional, highlighting how much the opportunity meant
Release on Drumcode became a major career milestone and opened doors globally
8. Mindset, Motivation & Advice
Attributes success to staying positive, humble, and open to constructive criticism
Warns against perfectionism that stifles creativity
Encourages consistency, hard work, and focusing on what can be achieved
Views the relationship with the audience as key to making a hit
Inspires others by sharing that everyone’s journey is unique and worth pursuing
Final Thoughts
This interview with Yozé offers powerful insights into resilience, overcoming adversity, and breaking barriers as a female techno producer in a male-dominated industry. Her story highlights how passion, hard work, and a positive mindset can transform challenges into triumphs.
🎧 What part of Yozé’s journey inspired you the most? Drop a comment below — and don’t forget to watch the full interview on YouTube →
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