SENCAN IS COMING TO CAVO THIS NOVEMBER

1. Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m Ilkay Sencan, a DJ and music producer from Istanbul. Music has been a huge part of my life since I was a kid, and somehow I managed to turn that passion into my career. I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world, meet amazing people and share my music with millions of listeners. But honestly, what still makes me happiest is being in the studio, creating something new and seeing people connect with it.

2. How would you describe your sound and artistic identity right now?

I don’t really like putting my music into one specific genre. I love experimenting with different sounds, but I always try to keep that signature Sencan feeling. I’m really into strong grooves, catchy melodies and creating something that people can instantly connect with.

Recently, I’ve also been bringing more of my Turkish roots into my music. My latest album, ORIGIN, is a big part of that. It’s a mix of where I come from and everything I’ve learned along the way.

3. What inspired you to start your journey as a DJ and producer?

It actually started when I was four. My dad bought me my first keyboard, and I used to spend hours trying to play the Turkish songs I heard growing up. I didn’t really know what I was doing back then, I just loved music.

Later on, I discovered electronic music and got really curious about how tracks were made. I started experimenting, learning things on my own, and eventually realized this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

4. What’s your approach when creating a new track?

Honestly, there’s no fixed process. Sometimes I start with a melody, sometimes a beat, and sometimes I just open my laptop and see where things go. I try not to overthink it too much. If something sounds good and gives me that feeling, I keep going.

One thing I always have in mind is how the track will feel when I play it live. There’s nothing better than seeing a crowd react to something you made in your studio.

5. Who are some artists that have influenced your sound?

I’ve always listened to a lot of different music. Growing up in Turkey, I was surrounded by Turkish melodies, and they’ve definitely had a big influence on the way I make music today. Of course, electronic music has also shaped my sound over the years.

But I’ve never really wanted to sound like anyone else. I take inspiration from different artists and genres, then try to turn those influences into something of my own.

6. What has been a standout moment in your career so far?

There have been quite a few moments that still feel unreal to me. Seeing tracks like “Rockstar,” “Don’t Say Goodbye” and “Şaşkın” reach millions of people around the world is definitely something I’m proud of. But one of the most special moments recently was the launch of my album ORIGIN.

It’s something I’d wanted to do for years, taking the Turkish songs and melodies I grew up with and giving them my own sound. Having my friends, family and people who’ve supported me over the years there to celebrate it made it even more meaningful.

7. What’s next for Sencan? Any upcoming releases or goals?

A lot of new music is on the way! I’ve been spending a lot of time in the studio, working on new ideas and collaborations. I’m also focusing on growing my label, LAB Records, and supporting new music and talent.

ORIGIN was a really personal project for me, but I have so many other ideas I want to explore. I just want to keep making music I love, play in new places and hopefully surprise people along the way.

8. Are you looking forward to playing in the UAE? Have you been here before?

Of course! I’ve actually been to Dubai three times before for songwriting camps, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite places to visit. I really love the city, the energy, the people and the whole creative atmosphere. Every time I’ve been there, I’ve had a great experience and left feeling inspired.

So I’m really happy to be coming back, this time to play at Cavo. I’m looking forward to sharing my music with everyone and having a great night together!