Rani Kryeziu Feature Interview
Rani Kryeziu – Feature Interview – Zone Magazine Issue 048
“Lost In Rhythm”: finding a voice between Ibiza and New York
Two years behind the decks taught RANI that the booth is also a mirror. Her debut single, “Lost In Rhythm,” balances emotion and drive, designed to work anywhere—from a packed club to a late-night drive—while holding space for memory.
A brighter From Ibiza to New York Mix salutes the nightlife capitals that shaped him. Based in Belgium with Albanian roots and releasing via Easter Egg Plant under Willem Voet, RANI steps from selector to creator, intent on a recognisable, melodic, groove-led signature.
Your debut “Lost In Rhythm” feels like a milestone. What emotions or personal moments shaped this track?
My passion for music, and especially for DJ’ing, was the driving force behind this track. I’ve always been in love with the nightlife — the energy, the connection, the way music brings people together. When you’re DJ’ing, you’re not just playing tracks — you’re reading the crowd, responding to their needs, but in that process, you also discover a lot about yourself. With my debut release, I wanted to reflect that journey. The result is a track that balances emotion and energy — a true expression of who I am as an artist.
The EP is described as “more than just a club anthem — a mood, a memory, a moment suspended in time.” What were you trying to capture with this Concept?
My goal was to create a track that you can listen to anywhere — whether you’re going wild in a club, dancing with friends at a festival, driving late at night, or even alone after a night out. I wanted it to be a track that brings out emotion and memories in the listener, one that gives you space to breathe and take it all in — and then pulls you right back onto the dance floor.
Your sound blends trance, deep, and melodic elements with real elegance. How would you describe your sonic identity, and what influences helped shape it?
I would describe my musical identity as deep, groovy, dynamic, and melodic. I rarely label my sound with specific genres, but these core elements really define my style. It’s music that carries emotion, makes you move, keeps you dancing, and is driven by endless melodies that create a sense of familiarity.
The “From Ibiza to New York Mix” offers a brighter, more energetic version. How did that reinterpretation come about creatively?
When I think of nightlife, my mind immediately goes to Ibiza and New York. Ibiza feels like my second home — I’ve been going there for 10 years. And New York? Just picture the giant billboards, the crowds, the vibrant energy of the city. For me, this remix simply had to be part of it.
You’ve been DJing for two years — what motivated you to step into music production and start building your own sound?
As a DJ, you’re often playing tracks by other artists. But I’m someone who spends days digging for the right tracks to include in a set — hidden gems that the audience might not know yet. I think it’s important to introduce them to something new. That’s also why I felt the need to start producing music myself — to create my own sound and share something original with the crowd. Something unique that, over time, people will recognize and say, ‘That’s Rani Kryeziu on the decks without even looking.
You’re based in Belgium with Albanian roots. Do you feel your cultural background influences your approach to music, consciously or subconsciously?
Not really, but I do notice that I’m drawn to a southern vibe in tracks. I especially appreciate the vocals from the Balkan region and would love to incorporate something like that in my future work!
Working with a label like Easter Egg Plant, under the guidance of Willem Voet, must be a unique experience. What was it like collaborating with him for this Release?
Definitely! Our collaboration went very smoothly. I was really happy when he reached out to me with the offer to release on his label.
Now that “Lost In Rhythm” is out, what’s next for you? Are there more tracks, collaborations, or shows coming that you’re especially excited about?
My goal is definitely to keep releasing music in the future! The rest of the summer is already nicely packed with DJ gigs. I take every opportunity I can get. We keep growing, learning, and loving what we do!