No Hype, No Ego—Just Music: An Interview with Robyn Balliet

Robyn Baillet's path in dance music has been shaped by real experiences, strong influences, and a deep love for underground culture.

From sneaking into illegal raves in Detroit during the early ‘90s to building her presence in Los Angeles’ thriving house and techno scene, her sound is a reflection of the spaces that shaped her. With a background in classical music and a sharp ear for groove, she blends melody and rhythm in a way that feels both timeless and personal.

Beyond her own productions—released on labels like Insomniac and 8 Bit Records—Robyn is also focused on fostering community. She recently launched Lovum Music alongside German producers Gorge and Markus Homm, a label that prioritizes raw talent over online metrics. She’s also bringing back the essence of underground dance culture through pop-up events that strip away distractions and put the focus back on the music.

In this conversation, Robyn shares how Detroit’s early techno scene shaped her understanding of music, the balance between artistry and business, and why she believes today’s dance community could benefit from a little less spectacle and a lot more soul.

You've experienced the underground rave scene in Detroit during the early '90s and now you're immersed in Los Angeles' dance music scene. How have those two contrasting environments influenced your sound and approach to production?

I feel lucky to have grown up in the '90s – a time of diverse genres, the rise of new cultural movements, and the blending of influences from past decades. My musical journey was shaped by everything from punk rock and emo to trance, classical, progressive house, deep house, and ‘90s hip hop. Even music from my parent’s era. My very first love, Jay Buck (RIP), a Detroit street skateboarder, introduced me to hip hop’s storytelling and social power, and I fell in love with how they mixed jazz, funk, and soul into the lyrics. Detroit’s rich music scene also played a huge role in my growth. Experiencing DJ sets from some of the legends like Derrick May and other early techno pioneers gave me a deep appreciation for the raw, driving energy of techno. The rave culture (and music) in Detroit was so different from what we see today. It wasn’t about the artist - or the hype as much as it was about the community and the music itself. It was a space where we could all sneak out of our parent’s homes and get lost together.

The raves back then were underground — illegal for sure. They weren’t polished or commercialized. The venues were often run-down warehouses or abandoned train stations, and you had to follow secret directions to get the real location. Sometimes, it took multiple stops to finally land on the right address. The raves being held in rough areas of Detroit - the danger itself added to the thrill of the experience.

Plastic tarps on the walls, dim lighting, and a few fog machines if we were lucky, gave the whole scene an almost mysterious, dystopian vibe. It wasn’t about the artists or the big production — it was about the community and the music. We came together, lost in the moment, away from the world, sharing something real and raw. You could feel the unity in the crowd, and the connection was so strong, it was like we were all part of something bigger.

One of the moments that really stood out was seeing Tiësto perform in Detroit. Well before he was the recognized name he is today. Artists like Ferry Corsten, Sasha, and Above & Beyond further deepened my love for trance, and many years later - moving to Los Angeles has further helped shape my sound with its vibrant underground dance music scene. All of these influences have come together to define who I am as an artist.

Looking back, I really wish today’s generation could understand what it was like to be a part of that scene — no social media hype, no high-ticket entry fees, most of the time we didn’t care who the artists were. Just a group of people sharing an experience. The raves back then weren’t about flashy marketing or huge productions or social media as It didn’t exist! They were raw, illegal, and absolutely real. It was a time and place where the music and the community came together in a way that simply doesn’t exist today. I feel blessed for that, but at the same time, I’m saddened that so much of it no longer exists today. I really wish the kids today could have experienced what I did!

As a classically trained violinist, how do you incorporate your understanding of melody and composition into your deep house tracks? Do you find that classical music has a direct impact on the way you structure electronic music?

My background in melody and composition is many years past - but still shapes how I create my music. The influence of classical music, especially strings (particularly the piano and violin), adds rich layers and emotional depth to my tracks. I focus on tension and release, which is key in both classical and electronic music. Classical harmonies and melodies give my music a unique, expressive quality, but I’m also driven to incorporate groove, which I think comes from my love of '90s hip hop.

You’ve released music on prominent labels like Insomniac and 8 Bit Records. How does your creative process change (if at all) when producing music for different labels with distinct sounds and expectations?

My creative process does shift a bit, but I always stay true to my style. Each label has its own vibe and sound, so I take that into consideration while still allowing myself the freedom to experiment. For example, Insomniac tends to focus on more high-energy, dancefloor-driven tracks, so I might push my sound to be more dynamic and impactful for larger audiences. On the other hand, 8 Bit Records has a more deep, minimal vibe, so I might focus more on subtle grooves and intricate details. Ultimately, I adapt to the label’s direction, but I always try to maintain the essence of what makes my music unique and true to who I am.

Many well-known artists, such as Marco Carola and Eelke Kleijn, have supported your music. Can you recall a specific moment where a major artist played your track, and how did that impact your confidence as a rising producer?

Getting support from artists like Marco Carola and Eelke Kleijn has been a huge honor for me, for sure. Recently, Hot Since 82 added my recent 'Lifeline' remix to his top tracks. Huge moment for me- especially since I’ve been listening to him for years and he’s definitely one of my favorite producers I look up to.

Another dope moment - Cristoph played both tracks from my Ohral Records EP. The first track, 'Just a Dream,' was a collaboration with my new label partner Gorge, and the second track, 'Out in the Rain,' was a collaboration with my other label partner Markus Homm. Having him support and play both of those tracks was a milestone for me. He also expressed to me personally how much he loved the EP.

Your journey spans across several key cities in music history—New York, Detroit, and now Los Angeles. If you had to curate a tracklist that captures the spirit of each city’s musical influence on you, what three tracks would you choose and why?

Although I was born in Niagara Falls, NY, and some may argue that is not New York ;) - NYC still has had a huge influence on me in many ways. So if I had to curate a tracklist that captures the essence of each:

New York: 'Deep Inside' by Hardrive - This track represents the raw energy and the foundation of house music in New York. The deep, soulful vibe of this track influenced my approach to creating groove-driven, powerful tracks. It captures the pulse of the city's underground dance scene in the early '90s, which has always resonated with me. So much nostalgia with this track on one of my favorite labels, ‘Strictly Rhythm.’

Detroit: 'Strings of Life' by Derrick May - Detroit's impact on my sound can’t be overstated. 'Strings of Life' is the perfect example of how Detroit's techno scene shaped my understanding of how emotion can be conveyed through electronic music. The driving rhythms and melodic richness of this track inspired me to bring more emotion and complexity into my own productions. Derrick is now a buddy of mine and a legend!

Los Angeles: 'Can't Get Enough' by Soulsearcher - Los Angeles has a laid-back, yet vibrant energy, and this track represents that fusion of fun, groove, and sunshine. It brings together elements of house,deep house, disco, and funk in a way that feels effortless but always engaging. It encapsulates the atmosphere of LA’s diverse music scene and reminds me of the influence of groove-heavy dance music that I embrace today. It came out the year I graduated from high school ;)

You've recently launched a label — can you tell us more about it and what its vision is?

I’m excited to share that I recently started a label called ‘Lovum Music’ alongside two incredibly talented German artists and mentors of mine, Gorge and Markus Homm. I’ve been a fan of both of their music for many years, so it’s truly an honor after several collabs we did together; that Gorge proposed we start the label with all three of us involved - and myself as the face of the label. Gorge is an absolute powerhouse from Mannheim, and definitely one of my all-time favorite producers, and is also the co-founder and label boss of 8Bit Records alongside Nick Curly whom I know just played for you guys, and anyone that knows music would probably consider 8Bit to be one of the most innovative labels in electronic dance music history. And Markus started his music career at 15 - and became a key figure in the house and tech-house communities with his releases on labels such as Highgrade Records, Diynamic Music (Solomun's label), and of course 8Bit — and he's also a world famous competitive Latin dancer, with a background that profoundly influences his rhythmic style.Both of these guys have influenced me deeply, and working together with them to create something special at Lovum Music feels like a dream come true. And I absolutely consider them family.

Our main focus with our label is to create a platform for emerging artists and help them grow, experiment, and share their unique sounds with the world. We’re not hung up on social media numbers or trends; our priority is the quality of the music and fostering a genuine community of creatives. It's all about supporting artists who have something fresh to offer, and we want to give them the space to do just that, without the pressure of constantly chasing online validation.

Having a background in marketing and owning a marketing agency, how do you think your business expertise has shaped your music career? Do you approach your artist brand differently because of your entrepreneurial experience?

My background in marketing and owning a marketing agency has definitely influenced how I approach my music career. Having that business expertise allows me to think strategically about my brand and how I connect with my audience. I understand the importance of storytelling and positioning, so I approach my artist brand with a clear vision and long-term goals. I also take a hands-on approach to promoting my music, from social media presence to building relationships with key figures in the industry. My entrepreneurial experience has taught me to think outside the box and always stay adaptable, which is key in both the music and business worlds. Ultimately, it’s about creating a balance between staying true to my artistic vision while also building a sustainable and recognizable brand.

At the same time, community is incredibly important to me. The connections I’ve made with other artists, fans, and people in the industry have been essential in shaping my journey. It’s not just about what you create, but who you create with and who supports you along the way. Whether it’s collaborating with like-minded producers, sharing ideas with other creatives, or engaging with fans who connect with your sound, community gives everything meaning. It’s through these relationships that I stay motivated, inspired, and constantly learning. Building a strong, supportive network around you is key because it’s not just about the individual—it’s about the collective energy.

You’ve mentioned that giving back to the raver dance community is important to you, as seen with your recent pop-up event in Los Angeles. What inspired you to create this initiative, and how do you see it evolving in the future?

There’s a lot of ego in the industry, and sometimes it feels like the focus shifts away from the true spirit of music and community. For me, it's important to break away from that and remind myself of the roots of why I’m doing this in the first place. The inspiration behind the pop-up event in Los Angeles came from my desire to give back to the community that’s supported me from the start—the ravers and dance fans. In an industry where ego can sometimes overshadow the music itself, I wanted to create a space that focused on unity, connection, and the raw energy of the rave culture. Without the support of the community, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to share my art in the first place, so I felt it was important to give them a meaningful experience in return. So it really was a labor of love!

The whole concept was centered around creating a truly meaningful experience, one that was less about the hype and more about coming together in a genuine, unfiltered way. We held it in a mock “barber shop” setting, which might sound unconventional, but that was part of the charm. It was a place where people could feel relaxed, engaged, and immersed in the moment without any distractions.

Instead of focusing on expensive tickets, big productions, or flashy marketing, we focused on the vibe. I gave out free swag, snacks, and drinks to the attendees, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. It wasn’t about the frills—it was about gratitude, connection, and sharing a few hours together, celebrating the music and the people who keep it alive.

One key part of the experience was making it a phone-free zone. When guests arrived, they had their phones taped at the door—no one was allowed to use them. This was a decision made with intention. In today's digital age, it’s easy to get caught up in capturing every moment or seeking validation online. But I wanted to break away from that. I wanted people to be present, to fully enjoy the experience without the pull of social media or the temptation to document everything. We all got to be in the moment together, just enjoying the music, the energy, and each other's company. The event was a huge success, not just because of the turnout, but because of the vibe we created—a space where we could connect on a deeper level, just like we did in the old-school raves.

Looking back, that night reminded me of the roots of what this scene was about. It wasn’t about status or followers. It was about unity, energy, and celebrating something real. That’s the essence of what I hope to continue creating.

Looking ahead, I see this initiative evolving into something even bigger. As I’ve started my own label, ‘Lovum Music’ alongside my German family Gorge (Pit Waldmann) and Markus Homm. I’d love to incorporate showcases into future events, featuring emerging artists and connecting more people to the music. This gives me a chance to not only bring people together but also support the next wave of talent in a way that’s rooted in community and shared experiences. Ultimately, I hope these pop-up events and showcases will become a regular part of what I do, creating spaces where music, connection, and self-expression can thrive without judgment or ego. And I want it to be more about the community and our shared love for music and less about me.

Point Blank is known for shaping many successful music producers. How did your experience there, beyond technical learning, shape you as an artist, and what advice would you give to aspiring producers about investing in their education?

Point Blank has been a pivotal part of my journey—not just for the technical skills, but for the broader support and mentorship that helped shape me as an artist. Their community has been instrumental in building my confidence in my creative voice. A great example of this is the all-day on-camera interview at Escape for Insomniac Events last year. I had always told myself that I hoped to be a great example of success for PB in the future, and to have them come to me and ask to do a feature on me as a success story was a dream! I’m still very close with several of my instructors, and even took away a best friend from one of my classes that will forever be a part of my life

When it comes to education in music production, though, it’s important to recognize that it can come in many different forms. For me, I’ve had access to a range of tools that helped me grow. Whether it was one-on-one mentorship, diving into YouTube tutorials, or experimenting on my own, each method played a part in my development. Point Blank certainly helped by providing structure and feedback, but it’s not always about formal education. Sometimes, you just need to actively create. The best lessons come from making music—working through struggles, finding your way, and experimenting without overthinking.

There’s no one-size-fits-all method to becoming a producer. Some people thrive under mentorship, while others might prefer to self-teach through resources like YouTube. The key is to keep creating and learning through doing. There will be moments when you have to rely on yourself, face challenges alone, and push through those struggles, but that’s where growth happens. The early phases of production can be some of the most exciting because there are fewer rules, fewer inhibitions, and more freedom to experiment. It’s in those early days where you can really find your voice—so don’t be afraid to embrace the unknown and enjoy the process, even when it feels difficult.

And I always say - I’m forever a student!

With several EPs and remixes planned for 2025, what aspect of your upcoming releases are you most excited about, and how do you feel they represent the next phase of your artistic evolution?

I'm really excited about the direction my upcoming releases are taking, especially with the shift towards more driving, groovy house vibes. As I continue to evolve as an artist, I’ve found myself exploring rhythms that feel more dancefloor-focused. It’s a natural progression for me, as I’ve always been drawn to movement and energy in my sound. With several EPs and remixes planned for 2025, I’m eager to dive into deeper grooves, bigger basslines, and intricate percussion that really bring people in. I am also diving heavily into collaborations with vocalists.

I feel like these new releases represent the next phase of my artistic journey, where I’m balancing the roots of my sound with new elements that push me outside my comfort zone. House music, with its driving force and captivating energy, allows me to tap into something that feels both timeless and contemporary. I’m looking forward to how listeners will connect with this evolution, and I’m excited for the potential of creating something that resonates even deeper with our community.

As someone who continues to deepen their knowledge in sound design and engineering, how do you stay inspired to constantly learn and grow in an industry that can sometimes be relentless and fast-paced?

Truly, there are not enough hours in the day! There's always something new to discover. For me, it’s about maintaining a genuine curiosity and staying open to new techniques and technologies. I try to set aside time to experiment, whether that’s with new gear, software, or even revisiting older methods with a fresh perspective.

The relentless pace of the industry can definitely be overwhelming at times, but I find that staying grounded in my passion for the craft helps me push through. I also find a lot of inspiration in collaborating with others, as it gives me the chance to learn from their approaches and share knowledge. I always say in my entrepreneurial and artist life - you are only as good as your team and those you surround yourself with!

What is one piece of advice you received early in your career that still resonates with you today, and how has it shaped the way you approach challenges in both music and business?

'Don’t rush the process; trust the journey.' Early on, I was eager to see quick results - and still struggle with this to get ahead, but I’ve learned that true growth — both in music and business — takes time. It’s about building a solid foundation, staying consistent, and being patient with yourself.

In music, it means focusing on the long-term development of my sound rather than trying to chase trends. In business, it’s taught me to take a step back, evaluate, and make thoughtful decisions, rather than jumping into something just because it seems like the right opportunity at the moment. It’s a reminder to stay grounded, trust my instincts, and keep the bigger picture in mind, no matter how challenging - or how much older - or things may get. ;)

Your sound combines groovy elements with deep house and progressive influences. How do you balance pushing boundaries in your music while maintaining a cohesive style that feels authentically "you"?

For me, balancing innovation with authenticity is all about staying true to the core of what I love about music, while remaining open to new influences. I’ve always been drawn to groovy elements, deep house, and progressive vibes because they’re versatile and allow for a lot of creative freedom. At the same time, I want my sound to feel connected — like there's a thread running through everything I do that speaks to who I am as an artist.

To maintain that cohesion, I focus on crafting the underlying energy of each track. Whether I’m experimenting with new sounds or pushing into different genres, I always keep a sense of rhythm, groove, and emotional depth that feels true to my style. It’s a balancing act of staying grounded in what feels authentic to me, while being brave enough to experiment and break through boundaries. It’s these small, intentional shifts that help me evolve without losing sight of my core sound.

What is your relationship like with live performance vs. studio production? Do you approach creating music for the dancefloor differently than you would for a listening experience, and how do you keep the energy consistent?

I honestly love both live performance and studio production equally, and I think they complement each other in really important ways. In the studio, I have the freedom to dive into the creative process, experiment with sounds, and take my time to craft each element of a track. It’s where I can explore ideas in depth, tweak details, and really get lost in the music, which is something I really cherish.

On the other hand, live performance brings a completely different kind of magic. The energy of the crowd, the connection with the audience, and the spontaneous moments make performing feel like a truly dynamic experience. There’s something so special about being able to see people react to your music in real-time, and it pushes me to keep evolving as an artist.

When it comes to creating music for the dancefloor versus a listening experience, I love that each environment offers its own challenges and rewards. For the dancefloor, it’s all about rhythm and groove — making sure the track flows in a way that gets people moving. But even when I’m producing for a listening experience, I still aim to keep that energy and emotional depth intact. In the end, both worlds keep me inspired and excited, and I try to bring that passion and energy into whatever I’m working on, whether in the studio or on stage.

In a time when many artists are exploring activism and social issues through their work, how do you see your role as a creator? Do you believe music can play a part in shaping or reflecting cultural movements?

As an artist, I see my role as one that both reflects and connects with the times we live in. While I may not always address activism and social issues directly in my work, I believe music holds a unique power to shape and reflect cultural movements. It’s a universal language, and no matter where we come from, music is one thing that always has the ability to bond us. Whether through joy, sorrow, or celebration, music creates a space for shared experiences and collective emotions.

For me, I aim to create music that speaks to people, whether that’s through giving them a moment of escape or sparking a sense of connection with others. Even if my work isn’t explicitly political, it still has the potential to resonate on a deeper level. Music has always been a tool for unity, and I believe it can inspire change, help us understand each other, and bring us together in ways words sometimes can’t. It’s about creating that space where people can feel connected, regardless of their background or circumstances.

What’s a memory you never want to let go of?

A memory I’ll always cherish is recently opening for Eric Prydz for his ‘20 years of Prydz’ world tour alongside Jeremy Olander. It was a surreal experience, especially being on the same stage as an artist I’ve admired for so long, knowing the incredible impact his music has had on the scene. The vibes from beginning to end were surreal. It was one of those moments where everything aligned, and seeing people respond to my set was incredibly rewarding.

Opening for someone like Eric was a reminder of how far I’ve come in my journey, and how essential it is to embrace those opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone. It truly felt like a dream come true. To top it off, I had the chance to perform alongside Eric and Jeremy Olander at a fundraiser event raising money together for the L.A. fires later that same evening at Avalon nightclub, which was another unforgettable experience. These moments are ones I’ll carry with me as I continue to evolve in my career.