Trace Breaks It Down in Five
Trace has become one of the most prominent house producers to emerge from Uzbekistan, building his reputation through releases on Hot Creations, Catch and Release, Hellbent, Repopulate Mars, and Nervous. His record “Taka Doom” marked a major breakthrough, earning steady support from Solomun and entering the Beatport Dance Chart top ten within days. Support from Pete Tong, Fisher, Jamie Jones, Marco Carola, Diplo, John Summit, Andrea Oliva, Nic Fanciulli, Cloonee, and Sonny Fodera has reinforced his standing across the international club circuit.
Still, the story behind the records is just as important. Many listeners are surprised to learn where he is from, often confusing Uzbekistan with somewhere else entirely. A turning point came during a night at Jamie Jones’ Paradise party in Amsterdam, an experience that reshaped how he viewed dance music and clarified the direction he wanted to pursue.
In the studio, Trace prioritizes focus above all else, shutting out distractions and working until he reaches a state where ideas unfold naturally. In this conversation, he opens up about his background, the moments that changed his perspective, and the discipline that drives his output today.
1. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
A lot of people don’t know that I’m from Uzbekistan. When they ask where I’m from and I tell them, they often respond with “Pakistan?” or say, “Oh cool, I’ve seen Borat,” even though that movie has nothing to do with my country at all.
2. What’s the most memorable moment of your career?
In 2019, I was in Amsterdam and went to Jamie Jones’ Paradise party. After that night, my entire perspective on dance music changed.
3. If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?
Definitely Marvin Gaye. I never get tired of listening to his album I Want You. I would honestly recommend it to everyone.
4. When do you feel most at peace?
When I’m feeling inspired and everything is flowing while I’m making music.
5. What do you find yourself focusing on most in the studio?
I try to stay fully focused and eliminate anything that could distract me. When you get into that flow state, it feels like the music writes itself. That’s the key to making great tracks.
