(EXCLUSIVE) Boris Brejcha for “Dan” ahead of his Sea Dance performance: Music connects people regardless of borders, languages and different opinions

His distinctive high-tech minimal sound, striking Joker mask, and performances that take audiences on carefully crafted musical journeys have made him a favorite among festivalgoers around the world.

Boris Brejcha will be one of the main acts of Sea Dance’s grand finale on August 30. According to the announced timetable, he is set to take over the decks at 1 a.m. during the closing part of the three-day festival program.

Ahead of his performance in Montenegro, he speaks to “Dan” about the energy he remembers from performing in front of Serbian audiences, the special connection between artist and crowd, the meaning behind his iconic mask, his relationship with trends and technology, and why he believes it is most important for an artist to preserve their own sound and identity.

What do you remember most from your previous performances in front of Serbian audiences, and what energy do you expect in Bečići and Montenegro?

I remember Serbian audiences as very passionate, energetic and open to long musical journeys. They really listen, but they also know how to celebrate. That is very important for me as a DJ. I expect the crowd in Bečići to bring the same energy, mixed with the special mood of summer, the beach and the sea. I think it can be a very strong and unforgettable night.

Boris Brejha

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How important is it for artists and festivals to use their voice and influence beyond music?

Music can bring people together across borders, languages and different opinions. I think artists and festivals have the opportunity to create spaces where people can feel free, safe and connected. Everyone has their own way of expressing this, but freedom and respect are values that should always be protected. Music may not solve every problem, but it can make people feel united — and that is powerful.

Could you tell us how the idea for your iconic Joker mask came about and what it represents to you today?

The mask became part of my identity because I wanted to create something different — something that allows the music and the atmosphere to be at the centre. It represents mystery, freedom and another world beyond normal daily life. Over time, it has become a symbol that people recognize immediately, but for me it is still connected to the idea that, during a show, we can all escape reality together for a while.

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How do you find the balance between what the audience wants to hear and what you want to play?

For me, it is important to respect the audience, but also to surprise them. Of course, people want to hear tracks they know, and I enjoy sharing those moments with them. But I also want to introduce new music and take them on a journey they did not expect. The best balance comes from feeling the crowd and understanding when to give them something familiar and when to challenge them.

How closely do you follow what is currently popular, and how consciously do you try to stay outside of trends?

I follow the scene because I am interested in music, but I do not create music just because something is popular for a few months. Trends change very quickly. My focus has always been on building my own sound and my own universe. If you are honest with your music and work hard, people will recognize it over time.

What advice would you give to young DJs and musicians who want to build a unique sound and identity in an era shaped by AI, Auto-Tune and other technologies?

My advice is simple: learn the tools, but do not let the tools define you. Technology can help you create, improve and experiment, but it cannot give you your own character. Listen to many kinds of music, work on your skills, be patient and do not copy what everyone else is doing. The most important thing is to find what makes you different and stay true to it.

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