Known for her refined mix of house and techno, Anna Tur has captivated audiences at some of the world’s most renowned festivals and clubs, including Tomorrowland, Ultra Australia, and Pacha Ibiza.
Tur’s career began in 2011, and she quickly made a name for herself across Europe, especially in Germany and Romania. Beyond her performances, she played a pivotal role in shaping Ibiza Global Radio, where she served as General Manager for nearly two decades. After leaving the station in 2020, she launched her podcast series “On Air with Anna Tur,” further cementing her reputation as a tastemaker in the industry.
Recently, Tur co-founded LOWLITA Records, focusing on house music with a techno edge. This new venture, along with her continued DJing and production work, marks a new chapter in her evolving career, where she continues to push boundaries while staying true to her roots.
Later this month she performs at SARAB Festival. Launching this year, Sarab Festival promises an unparalleled celebration of electronic music in the mesmerizing landscape of the Agafay Desert. Scheduled for September 27th and 28th, this festival is set to become a landmark event, offering a unique blend of sonic innovation and cultural immersion.
Ahead of the festival we sat down for a chat with Anna…
You’ve been active in the electronic music scene for several years. How do you think your sound has evolved since you started, and what factors have influenced this evolution?
Yes, I’ve been working as a professional DJ for 15 years and have been in the industry for 20 years if you include my time in radio. From my beginnings to the present, I’ve experienced a musical journey of constant changes—not due to any specific reason but as a matter of natural evolution, influenced by the trends of the moment. When I started, house music predominated, while now, the sound is more techno and melodic. I’ve never been a big follower of trends, but it’s true that you have to adapt. Right now, I feel at my musical peak. I’ve found a sound that identifies me, that I connect with, and I sense the same connection from my audience. I’m in a sweet spot.
As the founder of Balearica Music, how do you balance your roles as both a DJ/producer and label owner? How does your label’s ethos influence the music you release?
Balearica Music is a new project, and I consider it the perfect radio venture. From the start, they trusted me with its development—from creating the brand and strategic plan to the operational aspects. They gave me total freedom to let my imagination run wild, making it an innovative, creative, and solid project. Although the project is complete, it hasn’t yet been launched. I’ve contributed my part, and I’m eager for it to become a reality. My music label, “Lowlita Records,” is a reflection of my identity and spirit. It’s a project I share with Hosse and Gonçalo, fellow DJs/producers, and we always strive to reward quality and relevance. Balancing everything is easy because everything around me is connected, though it requires a lot of work, dedication, passion, and a refusal to be complacent.
Your roots in Ibiza have played a big role in shaping your career. How does the culture and atmosphere of Ibiza continue to influence your music today?
Ibiza is my birthplace, where I have my family, and where I grew up and developed. For many years, Ibiza has been the Mecca of electronic music worldwide, and the “Balearic” feeling is in my blood. However, it’s no longer my main reference point. While Ibiza remains my roots, I travel the world and don’t work as much on the island as a DJ, though it remains my biggest inspiration when it comes to producing. I draw from all the cultures and sounds I encounter on this beautiful journey called life.
With Sarab Festival emphasizing a fusion of international and local Moroccan talents, how do you approach crafting your set to resonate with both global and local audiences in such a unique desert setting?
I’ve been listening to artists who have previously performed at Sarab, as well as those who will join me on the day. I look to them for inspiration, and as I mentioned earlier, I like to draw from all cultures and places. In my opinion, the most appropriate approach is to craft my sound while respecting the environment and setting.
As a DJ who has performed in various settings, how do you feel the landscape of the Agafay Desert will influence the energy and atmosphere of your performance?
I can’t wait to play there. I’ve seen videos from previous editions, and it’s an incredible and magical place.
Given the festival’s focus on creating a full sensory experience with visual art, animations, and pyrotechnics, how do you see these elements enhancing or complementing your musical set at Sarab Festival?
These elements are fundamental to the full experience. They significantly help us as artists, but they also enhance the audience’s experience. I’m looking forward to it.
You’ve previously talked about the importance of maintaining a balance between your professional and personal life. How do you manage this balance, especially given the demanding nature of the music industry?
Yes, I do. Maintaining balance is one of the most important goals of my career. If you’re not balanced, neither your life nor your work will be. I value the most basic things in life: family, friends, nature, and health. These are my four pillars. Without them, I would be lost. In my daily life, I start my day with breathing exercises and a short meditation, giving thanks to the universe for this beautiful life and my health. Mental health is essential in our profession, and I work hard every day to maintain it. I also practice classical ballet twice a week, and in addition to that, I engage in intense physical training with the best business and sports coach I’ve ever met, Luis Ivan. He helps me maintain balance in both life and business. My next goal is to start practicing yoga, but I need to find the time because when I commit to something, I give it 100%, so I’ll need to make time for it.
You’ve emphasized the significance of authenticity and staying connected to your roots. How do you navigate the pressures of the industry while staying true to your personal values and musical identity?
I believe that education and preparation are fundamental. I’m a person of values and could never do my job successfully without being true to myself. I relieve the pressure of the industry by taking care of my mind and body. Sports help me a lot with that.
You’ve mentioned before that your connection with the crowd is one of the most rewarding aspects of your career. Can you share a specific moment or performance where you felt an especially strong connection with the audience?
Yes, it is. I really have a magical connection with the crowd. I really don’t know the specific reason, but I’m a very sensitive person, and I think the people in front of me can sense that. I hope to have this beautiful connection at Sarab Festival as well.
Head to https://sarabfestival.com for more
The post Magnetic interview: Anna Tur on her upcoming appearance at SARAB Festival appeared first on Magnetic Magazine.