Stefan Schmidt “STES8410” from Germany
Can you introduce yourself to our audience? * My name is Stefan Schmidt, also known as STES8410, and I’m an electronic music producer and DJ from Germany with a strong focus on Organic House and Progressive House.
My journey began with a deep fascination for how music connects to the moments and memories that shape our lives. Certain sounds can instantly bring you back to a feeling, a place, or a story, and that emotional power is what first drew me toward creating music myself.
Over time, this fascination naturally evolved into a clear artistic direction and eventually led me into the electronic music scene. It never felt like a sudden decision, but rather a gradual, organic process that unfolded as my sound and identity developed.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music, specifically in electronic genres? * What inspired me most was the ability of electronic music to create immersive emotional spaces. I’ve always been drawn to sounds that feel alive, textures that breathe, rhythms that evolve, and melodies that carry a sense of movement or memory. Electronic music gives you the freedom to shape these elements with incredible detail. It allows you to build atmospheres that resonate deeply with listeners, often without needing words.
For me, the step into electronic genres happened very naturally. As I explored production, I realized that Organic House and Progressive House offered the perfect balance between emotion, rhythm, and storytelling. They gave me the tools to translate feelings and memories into sound, and that’s what ultimately inspired me to pursue this path more seriously.
How would you describe your style and sound? (What sets you apart as an artist?) * My sound is rooted in Organic House and Progressive House, shaped by warm textures, evolving melodies, and a strong sense of atmosphere. I’m drawn to music that feels cinematic and emotional—tracks that unfold slowly, reveal layers over time, and create a space you can step into. I like to think of my productions as musical landscapes: detailed, immersive, and built to evoke a specific feeling or memory.
What sets me apart is my focus on emotional storytelling. I’m not just trying to create a groove; I’m trying to create a moment. Every element in my tracks has a purpose, whether it’s a subtle organic detail, a melody, or a rhythmic shift that changes the energy. My goal is always to take listeners on a journey which feels personal, atmospheric, and deeply connected to the emotions that inspired the music in the first place.
ABOUT YOUR RELEASE
Tell us about your latest release. (What’s the story or inspiration behind it?) * “Mirage” is inspired by the idea of illusion and the way we sometimes chase things in life that look meaningful from a distance, only to realize they were never truly real. Just like a fata morgana in the desert, these illusions can pull us forward, distract us, or make us lose sight of what’s right in front of us.
I wanted to translate that feeling into sound: the tension between longing and clarity, between what we think we want and what actually matters. “Mirage” is a reminder to return to the present moment—to the things that are real, grounded, and connected.
That message fits naturally with the spirit of music that invites you to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.
What message or feeling do you want listeners to take away from this release? The core message of “Mirage” is presence. I want listeners to feel a sense of grounding and a moment where the noise fades and you reconnect with what’s truly important. The track carries a subtle tension, but also a sense of release, symbolizing the moment you stop chasing illusions and start embracing the here and now.
If the track leaves listeners feeling more centered, more aware, or simply more connected to themselves, then it has done exactly what it was meant to do.
Can you walk us through the creative process behind this project? * The creative process behind “Mirage” actually began with the bass. I had two completely different basslines, each carrying its own energy and emotional direction. I couldn’t decide which one to keep, and at some point, I realized that this indecision was part of the story. Instead of choosing, I decided to use both and build the entire track around the contrast between them. That became the foundation of the concept: illusion, shifting perspectives, and the way energy can change depending on what you focus on.
From there, the track grew very naturally. I added organic textures, subtle layers, and evolving rhythms that reflect the movement of a mirage—something that appears real for a moment, then dissolves or transforms. I wanted the listener to feel that sense of fluidity, of being drawn toward something that keeps changing shape.
Throughout the process, I focused on letting the music breathe. Nothing was forced. Every element was chosen to highlight the tension between illusion and clarity, between drifting and grounding. That balance of atmosphere and emotional depth is at the heart of my sound.
How does this release differ from your previous work? “Mirage” feels more focused and more intentional than my earlier releases. It leans deeper into atmosphere and emotional clarity, with a stronger emphasis on space and subtle movement. Instead of building toward something big, the track invites you to slow down and listen—to notice the details, the textures, and the shifts in energy.
Compared to my previous work, this release is less about momentum and more about awareness. It reflects a more mature approach to storytelling.
INDUSTRY AND PERSONAL INSIGHTS
What do you think is the biggest challenge for artists in the electronic music industry today? One of the biggest challenges today is staying authentic in an environment that moves incredibly fast. There’s constant pressure to release more, post more, and adapt to trends, and it’s easy to lose your artistic identity in the process. For me, the real challenge is finding balance: staying true to your sound while still evolving and reaching new listeners.
Another challenge is visibility. There are so many talented artists out there, and standing out requires more than just good music. It takes consistency, a clear artistic vision, and the willingness to build genuine connections with your audience. That’s something I focus on every day: creating music that feels honest and meaningful, and sharing it in a way that resonates with people.
What role do events, collaborations, or labels play in shaping your career? (Please mention your collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia) * They play a significant role, especially when they align with your artistic identity. Collaborations and labels can open doors, but only if the partnership feels natural and supports your long‑term vision. That’s why my collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia has been so important. Their aesthetic, values, and global reach match the emotional and organic direction of my music. Working with them has helped me connect with a wider audience while staying true to my sound.
Events are equally important because they allow you to translate your music into real experiences. Playing live creates a deeper connection with listeners, and it’s where the emotional intention behind the music becomes tangible.
For me, all of these elements work together: the right label, the right collaborations, and the right events help shape not just a career, but a meaningful artistic journey.
Performing at a Cafe De Anatolia event would be a meaningful next step for me. I’m ready for that moment and simply waiting for the right invitation and the right event that aligns with my sound and artistic direction.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists looking to break into the scene? My biggest advice is to focus on your identity before anything else. Trends come and go, but a clear artistic voice will always stand out. Take the time to understand what moves you, what you want to express, and how you want people to feel when they hear your music. That clarity becomes your artistic direction.
Second, be consistent. Growth in this industry rarely happens overnight. Release music regularly, refine your craft, and stay patient. Every track, every set, and every connection builds momentum.
And finally, stay present. Don’t chase illusions or compare yourself to others. Focus on the work, on the moment you’re in, and on the people who resonate with your sound. If you stay grounded and true to your vision, the right opportunities will come and your audience will grow naturally.
LOOKING AHEAD
What can your fans expect next? (Are there upcoming releases, performances, or projects you’d like to share?) * There’s a lot to look forward to in the coming months. After “Mirage,” I have seven more releases scheduled with Cafe De Anatolia already, each exploring a different facet of my Organic and Progressive House sound. Strengthening my connection with the label is an important part of my journey right now, and we’re already discussing further projects and potential event opportunities that align with my artistic direction.
At the same time, I’m continuously working on myself as an artist—refining my sound, staying consistent, and always pushing to evolve creatively. Music is a true passion for me, and that drives me to keep growing and exploring new ideas. My fans can definitely expect exciting updates, fresh concepts, and several new tracks I’m already working on behind the scenes.
The next steps are clear: keep releasing meaningful music, deepen my collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia, and stay ready for the right live opportunities when they appear.
STES8410 – Mirage / 26.12.2025 released via Cafe De Anatolia