Meet ROBERT, a producer and DJ hailing from Romania and currently based in Bucharest’s vibrant music scene. With roots tracing back to his teenage years, ROBERT embarked on his DJ journey fueled by an unwavering commitment to his principles. In a world often consumed by fleeting fame and social media metrics, ROBERT took a bold step forward, changing his former stage name, Dubtil, with the aim of embracing his true identity. For him, progress and evolution reign supreme over mere notoriety or the allure of online followers. His musical philosophy is a testament to this conviction, as his sets are a captivating blend of high-quality sonics, deep energies, and profound journeys of the mind. With over a decade of professional experience under his belt, ROBERT’s technique is nothing short of impeccable—each mix is crafted with precision, elegance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. From legendary clubs like Nitsa and Fabric to renowned festivals such as Sunwaves and Get Out, ROBERT has graced stages across the globe, honing his craft and captivating audiences with his eclectic style. Check out his mix here!

Hello ROBERT, thanks for being with us today! I remember hearing you in Miami back in 2017, and loving every second of your set. I’m happy about this collaboration with you. I’d like to start by asking you, what moved you to change your artist name from Dubtil to ROBERT and what does this decision reflect about your values?

Hello and thank you for having me! I made the decision to change my name because the last couple of years were a bit rough, having to deal with some personal issues and I ended up feeling a bit stuck and somewhat lost but I managed to find my center again and I feel stronger overcoming those situations. I know it can be a little difficult starting over to some extent, like any beginning, but the struggle can be a good compass. My values didn’t change, I think if you listen to a recent set of mine and another one old, yes the acoustics may be different but the identity is still there…

How do you balance maintaining your identity while evolving professionally, as evidenced by your decision to change your stage name?

Personally, I don’t think you have to maintain a balance in keeping your identity, I think it comes naturally as long as you stay true to your inner voice, at least in my case, that inner voice that you try to express through music. It guides you as an artist if you listen to it. Of course, it is shifting over the years as you develop as a human being and of course, as an artist, as you gather more musical experience, and deal with different situations in life. The name change is more like making it official for the people who listen to you that they shouldn’t expect anything from the past, instead, every set should be taken as a new experience.

In what ways do you prioritize quality over popularity in your approach to music?

In my case, just by what I try to select, what goes in my case, and what I try to present to the crowd. By selecting tracks with depth, interesting sound design, and interesting ideas in general.Something different than the “obvious”.And I’ve always been like that.

How do you describe the characteristics of your sets, and what do you reveal about your musical style?

It’s tough to say because it’s a bit hard to be objective but my goal every time is to give an experience. I like to zoom out and think about the big picture. It’s also nice to let yourself carried away sometimes but I like it more when I have an idea and make it happen through a set. I feel more satisfied. I like to be technical, I like to put myself into situations sometimes and force myself to get out of them..I don’t know, it has to be interesting for my mind…

Can you elaborate on your perspective on the role of a DJ in exploring new avenues and pushing boundaries?

I think it’s important not to attach your identity to a particular sound, of course, I speak only about myself, I think it limits a lot of what you can do as a DJ which I think can be more than just playing one track after another. When you try new things, and I am not saying radical shifts, but “details” or little twists, be it on the technical side or music it can open up your creativity and it can bring so much more to a set…

With over 15 years of experience, what are the key lessons you have learned about your craft and the industry?

Hmm..everything is in a constant change, evolving…

Could you highlight some of the notable venues and festivals where you have performed, and what significance these places hold for you?

It’s hard for me to highlight something because they all are important and they all influence you one way or another. A big festival may teach you how to deal with large crowds and keep them engaged,  a small venue can teach you how to go deeper into something particular.

How does your extensive experience in both clubs and festivals contribute to your versatility and expertise as an artist?

When you deal with so many different situations and lots of different people it gives you a wider spectrum of knowledge in how to anticipate things and not lose your grip on what you are doing in the moment, and ease in carrying the responsibility of the performance.

What kind of experience can audiences expect when they attend a performance by ROBERT, based on your background and musical philosophy?


I don’t want them to expect something in particular. Just to come with an open mind and know that what’s happening to them is happening to me also, a part of me is also experiencing the performance as an audience member. With that In mind, they should know that I will always try my best to make it an experience.

Can you share some insights into your new sound and style?
 

Groove, emotion, and everything in between…

Talent: ROBERT

Music editor: Joiah Luminosa