RENASSENSE is a female producer and DJ based in San Francisco. With a strong desire to transform life experiences into art, she found her calling in the world of music. Her sound is characterized by vulnerability, connection, and authenticity. Having experimented with many genres, including melodic techno and progressive house her music has the ability to evoke emotions and elicit self-reflection, making others feel something and connecting with them in a deep and meaningful way. In the realm of melodic techno, she masterfully blends the melancholic with the euphoric. She captures the essence of perpetual motion and fluidity, creating a sense of energy and movement that captivates the listener.
RENASSENSE’s upcoming album, “Human Experience,” is a journey through five fascinating states of being. Each track on the album is a reflection of different states that humans experience, such as empathy, lust, creativity, music, and pain. These states of existence are captured sonically and shared with everyone through her music. As a result of her affinity for the music of the 80s and 90s, it was only natural for her to choose a stage name that would carry a dual meaning. With “Renaissance,” she pays homage to the musical era that fuels her creativity while modernizing it. Second, the artist’s given name, Rena. It embodies Rena’s sense of music and the intimate bond she holds with her craft.
Let’s see what she has in store for us today in this exclusive interview here at LADYGUNN. She shares all the specifics about “Human Experience”, her musical influences, and much more! Get ready to be amazed.
Hello and welcome RENASSENSE! How are you doing today? How is everything in your life?
Hi and thank you for the warm welcome! I’m doing well, life is both busy and fulfilling. Excited about the opportunities and creative projects ahead to keep the momentum going.
We want to know more about you! What makes you move?
Art moves me. There are two main sources from which I draw inspiration: my own life experiences and observing fellow artists convey creative concepts through their work. Offering a glimpse into their inner worlds, exploring subjects of interest, or challenging the established status quo.
Van Gogh is one of the artists that I find fascinating. His works pulsate with raw emotion and reflect a profound sense of feeling. And those self-portraits! They’re windows into Van Gogh’s soul, revealing a relentless quest for self-understanding and introspection.
Be it music, architecture, film, poetry, or any other form of artistic expression — decoding a creative intent in other artists’ works always leaves me inspired.
How did you get into the music scene? Especially in the electronic music scene.
At some point, I felt an empty void, like something important was missing. Sucked into a corporate routine where every day resembles another, I realized that I needed an outlet to pour out all the creative energy that was stuck within at the time.
Electronic music suits my personality and allows me to leverage my strengths when maintaining a delicate balance of artistry and technical expertise. I love that electronic music can be both understated and bold at the same time. And its audio engineering aspect makes it a lifelong journey to master the craft. Music is a way for me to connect with my inner self and express it in ways that words cannot.
What are your musical influences? Do you have other artists you look up to for inspiration? Any special muses?
The sound of the 90’s electronic music is something that hits me deeply. For example, melodic classical influences that can be found in trance music pioneered by artists like Armin van Buuren and Tiesto. “Children” track by Robert Miles is an ultimate representation of that sound that I am drawn to.
Monolink is another artist whose approach resonates with me. In particular, how skillfully he establishes a connection with his audience and delves into introspective themes in his music.
Would you be able to share your experiences as a woman in the industry with us?
Being a woman in this industry has allowed me to bring a unique perspective to my craft. Yes, certain biases and systemic challenges are still present, and we need to work collectively to bridge those gaps. However, my belief in the power of art transcends gender constraints. Skill mastery, passion, creative vision, and unique life experiences are qualities that help artists of all genders stand out.
Your new EP “Human Experience” is an amazing work of art. Can you describe the creative process behind it?
Thank you! It all started with Burning Man. I have had so many unforgettable experiences that week. I thought to myself, “What if I try to sonically capture all of these states of being and share that with the world? Empathy, lust, music, pain, creativity.” This is how the “Human Experience” EP was born. It turned out to be an accurate representation of me in many ways. It blends philosophy and art, offers some room for introspection, and explores very intimate states of being I often find myself in. This release allowed me to express different sides of who I am, and that feels satisfying and meaningful.
Every song represents something special, an emotion or a state of being. Which one represents you the most?
“Empathy” is the one I feel most connected to. It is the cornerstone of a fulfilling human experience and is the main track in this EP for me. Featuring a sample from Carl Rogers’ 1974 lecture in that track makes it even more special as a tribute to one of my favorite psychologists.
We already know which song represents you. However, what song do you think is going to resonate the most with listeners?
I have a feeling that “Lust” will receive the most interest. It is sensual and sexual, and there is something magical about how the beat meets the melody in that track. There is a lot of tension, climax, and release conveyed musically, which makes it ideal for DJ sets in city nightclubs. It will certainly keep the dancefloors fired up.
Now that your EP is out, are you already working on something new? If that’s the case can you give us any details about it?
Yes, there is a follow-up release: a music video for the “Lust” track that will be out next month. The video format fully brings my creative vision for this track to life. I’m also working on a single to release early next year and am looking into a DJ tour.
That’s all the time we have for today! Thank you RENASSENSE for sharing all this with us and our readers. Is there anything else you would like to add?
I enjoyed our conversation today, thank you for the interesting and thoughtful questions. I hope the tracks from my “Human Experience” EP find a special place in the hearts of your readers.
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