Mondingo, a talented Producer, Songwriter, and Live Electronic Artist, has made his entrance into the Electronic Music scene, eager to share his distinctive sound with audiences globally. His music is rooted in emotion, connection, and artistic exploration, resulting in soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners, showcasing authenticity that captivates and fosters an emotive impact.
With his latest single, ‘You,’ the first release from his upcoming album ‘Island,’ Mondingo lays the groundwork for a deeply personal yet universally relatable body of work. By blending organic and electronic elements, he invites listeners into a sonic realm inspired by nature, reflection, and the beauty of shared experiences.
In this exclusive interview, we explore the creative process behind ‘You,’ his vision for his new label, MOODSHINE Records, and the inspirations that shape his distinctive sound.
Hi Mondingo, how’s everything going?
Hey! Things are fantastic, thank you. It’s an exhilarating time with my single ‘You’ released and plenty more music coming soon. I’m ready for what’s next!
To begin, could you share the moment or idea that inspired the production of ‘You’?
The inspiration for ‘You’ stemmed from a personal insight. I reflected on how, regardless of how beautiful a location might be, it loses its significance without someone special to share it with. That thought lingered with me, and I aimed to create a song that honors the people who add meaning to our lives.
What feelings did you want the soundscape of ‘You’ to evoke?
I aimed for ‘You’ to convey both intimacy and expansiveness. The soundscape should inspire feelings of gratitude, connection, and warmth, while also incorporating elements of melancholy and reflection. It’s about love, yet it also highlights the beauty of shared moments and the sense of incompleteness that can arise when those moments are solitary.
‘You’ seamlessly blends electronic and acoustic elements. How do you approach merging these textures during production?
For me, it’s all about achieving balance. I start with the emotional essence of the song—often through melody or harmony—and gradually build layers that reflect that core. Acoustic elements infuse warmth and humanity, while electronic textures introduce movement and energy. I continually seek a dynamic interplay between the two to create something that feels both organic and modern.
Do your personal life experiences significantly influence your music? If so, how do you transform those emotions into sounds that resonate with a wider audience?
Absolutely, my life experiences form the foundation of my music. I typically start with a feeling or memory that is personal to me, but then I consider how to express it in a universally relatable manner. This often manifests in melodies or sound design that evoke emotions such as longing, hope, or connection that everyone can identify with.
Your vocal performance on the track is particularly impactful. What role do vocals play in your creative process? Do you have a standard workflow for constructing vocal melodies and lyrics?
Vocals serve as the emotional core of my music. I usually start by crafting a beat or production. Then, I’ll sing some improvisational melodies, allowing the process to flow naturally, and subsequently add lyrics that align with the mood and narrative I wish to convey. For ‘You,’ the lyrics were the last element because the song’s emotion was already so prevalent in the music. I prefer to maintain a fluid vocal process—it’s about achieving a balance between vulnerability and structure.
‘You’ is part of your upcoming album, ‘Island.’ How does this track set the tone for the album as a whole?
‘You’ establishes the tone by introducing the album’s central themes: connection, nature, and reflection. It’s a love song, but it also captures the broader journey of Island—escaping the chaos of modern life and reconnecting with what truly matters. While it might be a bit faster than the rest of the album (129 BPM), I prefer not to impose too many restrictions. It serves as a bridge between the organic and electronic realms, a recurring theme throughout the album.
Your studio, Durbuy Music, is set amidst nature. How does this environment influence your creativity?
Being surrounded by nature provides an endless wellspring of inspiration. The tranquility and beauty of the environment allow me to focus and connect with my emotions on a profound level. It’s also a space that encourages collaboration and experimentation, which is integral to my creative process. The sounds of the woods and birds have even woven their way into some tracks on the album.
You’ve recently launched your label, MOODSHINE Records. What inspired you to take this independent path, and how do you believe this step will shape your music moving forward?
Establishing MOODSHINE Records was about creating a platform where I could experience complete creative freedom and also support other artists who share similar values. It has empowered me to align my music with my vision without compromise. Looking ahead, it allows me to take risks, innovate, and grow while fostering a community around authentic, emotionally resonant Electronic Music.
This release signifies a new chapter in your musical journey. Can you share what feels different about this phase of your career? What are you most excited about as you continue on your musical path?
This phase feels more intentional than ever. I’ve discovered my sound, and I’m producing music that feels genuine and fully aligned with my identity as an artist. I’m most eager about building connections—with listeners, collaborators, and the artists on MOODSHINE. It’s about more than just creating music; it’s about crafting something meaningful that resonates deeply with people.
As Mondingo embarks on this new chapter of his career, he continues to redefine his artistry with purpose and intent, driven by his passion for music and his desire to cultivate a sonic identity that authentically mirrors his journey and vision. With an exciting future ahead, filled with creative freedom, collaborative opportunities, and a focus on meaningful connections, Mondingo is undoubtedly a name to watch in the Electronic Music scene. Stay tuned to his social media for updates on his latest releases and news.
Listen and Buy ‘You’ Here:
https://open.spotify.com/album/05pQbTZE59ptAsv1hNtsTd?si=K_RhyWpjSK2azh8pzoFceQ
https://www.beatport.com/release/you/4861838
Mondingo Online
