From the Czech Republic to Ibiza stages and BBC Radio 1, David Nováček shares his journey through top labels, global gigs, and making his DJ dream reality.
David Nováček is a Czech DJ and producer who has built an international presence through releases on leading labels such as Spinnin’ Records, Armada Music and Sosumi Records. He has collaborated with artists like Ron Carroll and Warp Brothers, performed at major events including Amsterdam Dance Event, and played regularly in London and Ibiza at iconic venues such as Ibiza Rocks, Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza and Café Mambo Ibiza. His track gained support from Pete Tong on BBC Radio 1, further confirming his growing impact on the global dance music scene.
INTERVIEW
You regularly return to play in Ibiza at places like Café Mambo or Nikki Beach Ibiza — what keeps drawing you back to the island even after so many years?
As someone once said – Ibiza is a magical place. I can sign this quote right here, right now. Everytime you have to leave the island you feel broken, sad and you just wanna stay. There’s no better place in the world to present your music. What I also need to add – you wouldn’t really find me clubbing at night. When I’m not on a DJ gig I just love to enjoy every single minute on the beaches or in the town, exploring coffee shops and good restaurants. I simply enjoy the island itself. I love to be on the beach alone when everyone sleeps after parties.
Do you remember your very first gig in Ibiza? What was it like, and how does it compare to today?
Of course! It was very dificult because it was during pandemic times. But the gig (pool party) was amazing and we really enjoyed it. It was my DJ set at Ibiza Rocks. Needless to say, during the pandemic it was a bit different. Limited amount of people were allowed at the parties and many places were closed. It was definitely less crowded but the spirit of Ibiza vibe was still there. When I am here during the peak season it is more crowded, but that is a part of Ibizas charm.
You’ve collaborated with the well-known DJ Kryder — what did that experience give you, and how did your connection come about?
Many years ago it was my biggest label dream to release my track on Kryder’s Sosumi Records. That label released only top level tracks – tracks, that you can just take and play in a prime time. I was aiming for this specific label. I really wanted to be between those big producer names. After years of insane hard work I finally made it and my track with colombian singer Martina Camargo was released (2018). After that I met Chris (Kryder) personaly and we bacame friends. We meet each other a few times a year and we communicate daily. He’s like a family to me now. Sometimes I chat with his mom as well (laughs).
Does Ibiza still hold its status as the “mecca” of electronic music, or do you feel the scene is shifting elsewhere?
100% yes! Ibiza is the right place where people wanna hear fresh unreleased new music. Everywhere you go on the island you can hear great music. From every single store, bar or even passing cars. People here really care for good music, which is also one of the things I love about this place – it keeps the standard high. I think Ibiza has always been the queen of electronic music and this status is going to be there forever.
How does the audience in Ibiza differ from the Czech crowd? Do you notice a different energy or expectations?
It’s a huge difference. That’s also why I stopped playing in Czech whatsoever. It really didn’t give me anything. It’s sad to say, but I wasn’t free and also not happy when djing there. I wouldn’t say there aren’t some good parties, but for me personally it was about the question “What do I really want?” To play music I don’t really like in Czech Republic just so the people are satisfied? I didn’t want to be stuck in one place – I wanted to make new tracks in the studio and open the doors to the world. So I decided to hide in my studio and give 110% to my production. And I have to say it – it was probably the best decision of my career, because after that I was lucky to play on the best places in Ibiza, London, Amsterdam and many many more.
You’re currently expecting a baby — huge congratulations 🙂 How is this life change influencing your perspective on your DJ career and life overall?
Thank you so much! It will be a game changer for sure but I’m happy and excited for this new chapter of my life. I think I’ll still have enough of “My Time” for the studio as I get up very early to have all my work done while everyone still sleeps (not sure about baby haha).
Do you plan to focus more on music production in the future, or are you still more drawn to live performances and touring?
To be honest it is now 99% of my time that I give to music production. I love to be free in the studio – coffee, clear mind and blank canvas to “paint on”. I feel more like myself this way – there is no pressure about timeline or where you need to be on the exact time for me.
Name your Top 3 DJs — your dream B2B?
Uff, that’s a tough question as there are so many great producers. But I will have to go with Bob Sinclar, Armand Van Helden and Michael Gray as my top 3.
If you could give one piece of advice to DJs from the Czech Republic who want to play in Ibiza, what would it be?
Music Production! Make your own tracks, work hard and go for it no matter what. Follow your dream, try to collaborate with other producers and make a lot of friends. Also getting fans is important – try to be unique. I would also want to wish everyone a good health because if you don’t have that, then you really have nothing. It’s the most important thing, so always prioritize yourself.
