Secret Wish Interview With Colby

Guide

“Melody Of The Music Man” blends nostalgic dance with modern electronic sounds. What was your creative vision behind this track, and how did it evolve during production?

“Melody Of The Music Man” is a track that has been years in the making. Originally written in 2003, it was inspired by “Children” by Robert Miles—a piece that showcased the emotional depth possible in instrumental music. At the time, I envisioned it as an opening piece for a show, something to immediately draw the audience in with emotive piano and evolving rhythms. However, due to various circumstances, the track remained unfinished and largely unheard for years.

As musical styles evolved, I revisited the piece with a fresh perspective. The goal was to blend the nostalgic elements of classic dance music with contemporary electronic sounds, creating something that feels both timeless and current. The result is an instrumental anthem that builds anticipation through haunting piano melodies, dynamic drum beats, and euphoric synths—designed to evoke emotion and energy on the dance floor.

Ultimately, “Melody Of The Music Man” is a reflection of our journey, blending past inspirations with present influences to connect with listeners on an emotional level. And now, finally, it’s receiving the attention it deserves.

You worked with Grammy-nominated mix engineer Benny Steele on this release. What was it like collaborating with someone of his caliber, and how did his input elevate the final sound?

We feel incredibly blessed that Benny Steele crossed our path. “Melody Of The Music Man” was masterfully mixed and mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Benny Steele—renowned for his work with artists like Pitbull, Flo Rida, David Guetta, and Jason Derulo—ensuring a polished and exhilarating listening experience.

Working with Benny was truly transformative. His deep understanding of sound dynamics and meticulous attention to detail brought a level of professionalism that significantly enhanced the project. The final product is a testament to his skill and our shared commitment to delivering an exceptional auditory experience.

Benny not only elevated the track sonically but also deepened our appreciation for the art of music production. His contributions were instrumental in bringing our vision to life and ensuring the energy and emotion we aimed to convey were fully realized.

Your music has been described as “bubblegum, dancey stuff.” How do you embrace that label, and what do you think makes your sound resonate across cultures, especially in places like Japan and China?

We wholeheartedly embrace the “bubblegum dancey stuff” label. It perfectly captures the essence of our music—fun, infectious, and unapologetically joyful. Our goal has always been to create tracks that make people smile, dance, and forget their worries, even if just for a moment. If our music brings that kind of happiness, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do.

As for our international appeal, particularly in Japan and China, we believe it’s the universal language of emotion and energy that transcends borders. Our tracks have charted in Asia, sparking a widespread Secret Wish craze. For example, we signed a licensing deal in China right away with our debut single “Flick Of A Switch.” Since then, interest from those countries has remained strong.

In Japan, the appreciation for electronic dance music and its integration into various aspects of culture has created a receptive environment for our sound. Similarly, China’s growing interest in global pop and electronic music—boosted by platforms like Douyin—has introduced our music to an even broader audience.

As a duo made up of a DJ/producer and a vocalist with a background in cover bands, how do your different musical backgrounds shape the Secret Wish sound?

Our diverse musical backgrounds are the heartbeat of Secret Wish. Kurt’s journey as a DJ and producer has deeply influenced our sound. His early training in music school and experience in the nightlife scene gave him a solid foundation in electronic music. This background has shaped our production style—tight, melodic, and crafted for impact.

Meanwhile, my background as a vocalist in cover bands brought a different set of influences. Performing a wide variety of styles helped me develop vocal versatility and an understanding of what resonates with live audiences. I try to bring that emotive, crowd-connecting energy into the studio.

Together, we merge precision with passion, structure with spontaneity. It’s that combination that defines our sound—dance music with heart, made to move both your feet and your feelings.

You’ve made it a mission to unite people on the dance floor and make them feel good. What does that connection with your audience mean to you, and how do you keep that energy alive with each release?

For us, the dance floor is more than just a space. It’s a shared moment of joy, freedom and unity. When we see people connecting with our music, whether they’re dancing, singing along, or simply lost in the rhythm, it reaffirms why we do what we do. It’s that energy that fuels our creativity and drives us to keep pushing boundaries.

With each release, we strive to capture that essence. For instance, our latest single “Melody Of The Music Man” is an instrumental track. It blends a haunting piano melody with vibrant drum beats, creating an emotional and euphoric soundscape. Similarly, “Voodoo Nights” delves into a seductive atmosphere, evoking the mysticism of voodoo spirits and the enigmatic world they inhabit.

We also understand the importance of visual storytelling. The music videos accompanying our tracks, like the one for “Melody Of The Music Man”, directed by Brendan Bishop, who has credits on his name for blockbusters such as The World Is Not Enough (James Bond) and The Wolfman, feature stunning visuals that mirror the uplifting essence of the song. It captures the joy and freedom that characterize the vibrant world of EDM.

Ultimately, our mission is to create music that not only makes people move but also makes them feel something profound. By staying true to our roots and continually evolving, we aim to keep that energy alive and ever-present in every note we produce.