ELECTRONIC MUSIC 2026
How did you first get into music production, and who is your biggest inspiration?
I started producing music because I wanted to bring something unique to the dancefloor—something that people could only hear in my sets.
At first, I was mainly playing tracks from top DJs, but after watching festival performances around the world, I realized that if I wanted to stand out, I needed my own sound and my own weapons.
People often ask me who my biggest inspiration is, but honestly, I don’t really have one specific artist anymore. Of course, there are many DJs I respect, but these days my biggest challenge is to keep pushing myself and become a better version of who I was yesterday.
That said, if I had to name one artist who influenced me the most as a festival DJ, it would be Hardwell. His energy, his mashups, and his ability to unite thousands of people through music have always inspired me.
Today, my biggest focus is creating a sound and an identity that people instantly recognize as “RITCHY.”
What is the story behind your latest release/mashup?
I have two new releases coming out on July 24th and August 14th.
Over the past few years, my sound has evolved a lot. My recent productions are more focused on Techno and Trance influences while still keeping the energy I love to play in clubs and festivals.
When I create mashups for my shows, I usually start by listening to the instrumental over and over. Somehow, the perfect vocal just pops into my head naturally.
Sometimes it’s an acapella from the golden era of EDM. Other times it’s a current Billboard Top 40 hit, a K-pop track, or even something that’s trending on TikTok.
The most important thing for me isn’t simply combining two songs—it’s creating a moment.
I always ask myself, “What will the crowd feel at this exact moment?” That’s how I build mashups that maximize energy and create unforgettable reactions on the dancefloor.
To me, a mashup isn’t just mixing two tracks together—it’s designing an emotion.
What is the most memorable moment from your recent live sets?
One of the most unforgettable moments for me was playing in the Philippines for the first time earlier this year.
Of course, every country I’ve played in—including my home country Japan and one of my favorite places, Thailand—has given me incredible memories. But what stood out the most in the Philippines was the crowd’s reaction.
Even though most of the audience had never seen me perform before, they connected with my music from the very first track. Seeing people react so strongly to my mashups and original productions was an incredible feeling.
That night reminded me that music truly has no language or borders.
It made me even more determined to keep performing around the world.
What are your main goals for your music career this year?
I have two major goals this year.
The first is to expand my international career even further. I want to perform not only at top clubs in Southeast Asia—including venues recognized by DJ Mag—but also at legendary clubs and festivals across Europe, sharing my music with new audiences around the world.
My second goal is to release more original music.
Until now, many people have known me primarily as a DJ, but I also want to be recognized as a producer.
My goal is that whenever people see the name RITCHY, they immediately know what kind of energy and sound to expect.
Thanks to social media, especially Instagram, I’ve been fortunate to build friendships with DJs and producers from all over the world. I’m excited to release several international collaborations in the near future.
What can your fans expect from you next?
The second half of this year is going to be very exciting.
I have plenty of new releases, fresh mashups, and collaborations with international artists on the way.
Most importantly, my live sets will continue to evolve.
My goal has always been to create a show that gives people the same excitement and energy as a festival, even inside a club.
I’ll keep bringing new music, new ideas, and unforgettable moments to every performance.
On a personal level, one of my biggest goals this year is to perform at an international music festival. I hope to make that dream come true and share that experience with all of my fans.
Also, my weekly SoundCloud mix series, “RITCHY & Famous Radio,” has now passed 100 episodes! Every week, I share the latest promos, fresh music, exclusive mashups, and the tracks I’m currently playing in my sets. It’s my way of staying connected with listeners around the world and introducing them to the newest sounds I’m excited about.
If you haven’t checked it out yet, I’d love for you to give RITCHY & Famous Radio a listen. See you there!