Balance Selections 295: Katrin Souza

Katrin Souza’s journey is a remarkable example of turning adversity into creativity. Despite growing up in an orphanage and lacking formal musical education, Katrin Souza overcame significant obstacles to pursue her dreams. After discovering the joys of electronic music, she dedicated her nights to studying music production while balancing a full-time job and raising two young children as a single parent. Her first demos received support from Paul Oakenfold and Roger Shah. This was an unexpected surprise for her, given that she had to fend for herself for most of her life: “I had never really received support or recognition in my life. Somehow, being an outcast felt more comforting.” Today Souza is a recognized member of the global music community, managing a full-time music career while raising her two creative children: “My son writes music and my daughter is an artist. I am very proud of them!” Her music releases, spanning over 15 years on labels such as Monstercat Silk, Dissident, and LW Recordings, feature melodic arrangements that linger long after the song ends. Her recent production, ‘Paradise Island,’ alongside John Fisherman on the HOROSHO imprint, exemplifies this with its breezy, summery sound and optimistic overtones. In her two-hour mix, Souza delivers an exceptional journey that highlights the joy of escaping through music. Featuring tracks from Gai Barone, DJ Koze, Guy J, Dave DK, and more, this fluid progressive mix explores a range of meditative flavors which build towards an explosive end. @katrinsouza