Florian Pelivani (Floyo)
Tell us more about yourself & your music career? I was born and raised in a small seaside city in the very south of Albania. My journey in music began when I heard artists play in bars and clubs during summers. I started my music education in Greece, studying production and DJing. Returning to Albania, I played in various locations, and later, I moved to the UK to take my passion for electronic music to another level. Building my private studio, I embarked on a new journey focused on Afro deep, melodic, and progressive genres. The music career, like life itself, has its ups and downs, but when you do something with love, the journey becomes worthwhile.
How would you describe your style of music? Very Sexy. Summer sounds are always beautiful and very sexy because they are played the most in the best time of the year when people are on vacations and living their best lives. This kind of music brings the best memories. We are fortunate to have summer in different places at different times of the year.
Tell Us More About Your Release? It’s been a while working on this track. It’s the first track I started to produce, and it holds special meaning. During the process, I also produced two more tracks to promote and establish my style. This track was the inspiration for everything. After years of exploring various genres, I decided to focus on the genre I love the most. “Falling Down Again” is a masterpiece where I combined drums, percussions, crowd claps, piano, and guitar, adding numerous details until the end. The track is a tribute to my enduring love for music, a constant companion through disappointments and victories.
What is your connection with Cafe De Anatolia? I’ve heard many artists release their productions with Cafe De Anatolia, and I was waiting for the right track to try myself with this great label. As someone originally from the Balkans, the label’s releases from this region resonate with me. From the beginning, they’ve done a great job, analyzing the track, explaining the next steps, and finding the perfect date and time for the release. I’m delighted to sign with Cafe De Anatolia.
What initially sparked your passion for music, and how did you decide to pursue a career in the industry? Everything started at a young age; I was only 14 when I started listening to DJs worldwide through radio and TV. This was 22 years ago. From that moment, I did everything to learn as much as I could about DJing. The spark came when I saw John Digweed, one of the top DJs back then, managing the crowd, music, rhythm, and vibe. I felt the desire to do the same and realized I could. That was the beginning for me.
Can you share a memorable moment from your music career that made a significant impact on your artistic journey? There are many moments over the years, but I am currently enjoying this phase of my journey. Creating my music and sharing it with everyone is significant and impacts every artist’s career.
What do you believe sets your music apart from others in the industry? What makes your sound unique? The love, dedication, and how I describe sounds through the mix set my music apart.
How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your music career? Is there a particular experience that taught you valuable lessons? Challenges are part of every career, not just in music. Believing in what you want and doing it with passion is key. I believe everything happens for a reason, and we should take the best from every experience in our lives.
Collaboration is a crucial aspect of the music world. Have you collaborated with other artists, and if so, how has it influenced your musical direction? Collaboration is vital in music. While I haven’t collaborated in producing yet, I’ve played gigs with big names, and it’s a different experience. Sharing ideas and understanding different mindsets can have a significant impact on developing creative ideas.
With technology constantly evolving, how do you leverage digital platforms and social media to connect with your fans and promote your music? Staying in touch through social media is crucial for promoting oneself and one’s music. It’s challenging to be present all the time while working in the studio, but I’m making an effort, like everyone else.
What’s your favorite part of being a musician? Is there a specific aspect of your career that brings you the most joy and fulfillment? My favorite part is understanding how people feel about music and creating emotions through the sounds and vibes I produce. The rare emotions they give us are the best thing about being a musician.
How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue creating music, especially during times when inspiration might be elusive? The love for music is a constant motivator. While every career has its ups and downs, the love for music allows me to travel to different dimensions and be happy most of the time.
Describe how music is important to society. Music is essential; I call it the colors of life. I can’t imagine living without music; any genre adds vibrancy to life.
What is your best time of the day to create? For me, it’s at night. I am more focused during that time because I am alone and don’t have many distractions. I am fully present in creating.
Who are your musical influences? My influences come from people who believe in me—my family, friends, fan base—and, of course, many big artists I’ve followed over the years.
What has been your biggest career highlight so far? Starting to produce and transitioning from various genres to my favorite ones (Afro deep, melodic, and progressive).
What are your latest releases? My first two releases are “Gravity” and “Departure.” Now I am eagerly anticipating the release of the third one, “Falling Down Again,” with Cafe De Anatolia.
Are you working on something new? I am working on an EP of three tracks, and I’m excited that I’m close to completing it.
What’s the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you? Be original, create your vibe, and be authentic.
What’s your process for dealing with performance anxiety? I live for the emotions I experience live through music and various life directions. I don’t have problems with performance anxiety; I think I have the ability to understand people, and this doesn’t give me anxiety.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians? Believe in yourself and never give up.
Floyo – Falling Down Again 08/03/2024 released via DEEP HOUSE CDA