Rio Tashan: Playing at Printworks showed me how far I’ve come

We spoke to an amazing DJ, newest addition to Defected's A&R team, and definitive one to watch ahead of his Zagreb debut - Rio Tashan!

As many of you already know, the global music brand Defected is coming to Croatia again!

A new get-together will take place in Zagreb on Friday, November 24, at Boćarski dom with a special Defected production and a complete audio experience via The Garden Funktion One sound system.
This time, we are bringing three debut Zagreb performances by Eats Everything, Melé, and Rio Tashan, with local support from the Dobar House ranks featuring Elena Mikac and Tom Bug & Grooveline.

For this ocasion, we spoke to one of the rising stars from the Defected ranks - Rio Tashan! Let's get straight into it, then! Read more below.

Hi Rio, what made you decide to pursue a career in music in the first place?

Rio: It was fairly simple really – I was attending a festival and loved watching one of the DJ’s who performed there. I fancied giving it a go, and here I am!

Few years back, you threw an event called 'Rio Tashan Invites.' Can you share the story behind this party?

Rio: At the time I was playing a lot of shows where I had to tailor my sound to fit a brief. This show gave my friends and I an opportunity to play whatever we wanted with no restrictions, and to just have fun with it.

In 2022, you were selected as one of the winners of Defected's 'Unsung Heroes' competition. How did this opportunity come about, and what has it meant for your career?

Rio: I was fortunate that Defected put on this competition. Being selected completely changed my whole career. Firstly, I played a gig of their choice in 2022, and they have been selecting me for their shows ever since.

You've performed at various venues throughout Europe, including Café Mambo in Ibiza and Defected events. What has been your most memorable performance so far, and why?

Rio: In March 2023, the last ever Defected show at Printworks, London. I played twice – The opening set and then b2b with Paige Tomlinson in the Press Halls. That was the best set of my life so far!

You also host a monthly showcase on Defected Broadcasting House called 'It's A Feeling.' Can you tell us more about the concept behind the show and what listeners can expect?

Rio: This is an outlet for me to express myself with no boundaries. Listeners can expect to hear music I truly love and believe deserves exposure.

You've mentioned artists like Honey Dijon, Seth Troxler, Darius Syrossian, and Kerri Chandler as inspirations. How did they influence your approach to music?

Rio: All of these artists have a depth of knowledge, various mixing techniques, (which I incoporate into my own mixing style), and different sounds. Their sets can go in any direction, whilst still fitting with their high-level energy.

You've played at Printworks more than once, including a sold-out show, can you tell us more about this experience at a now closed legendary venue?

Rio: Playing at Printworks showed me how far I've come; Going from Inkwells on NYE to the iconic Press Halls. Whilst both are amazing rooms, the size of the crowd in the Press Halls felt incredible and it holds a special place in my heart.

How did 2023 go for you? Any festivals, or gigs that have been really special for you this year?

Rio: 2023 has been amazing! Some of my favourite sets have been at Glastonbury, Creamfields main stage, and ADE. Playing in Croatia, Ibiza and Dubai were incredible experiences.

Being one of the newest additions to the Defected’s A&R team, how do you choose the artists you will sign? What do you look for in their music?

Rio: I always look for originality, but something which also fits the Defected sound.

And what about your productions? Can we expect something from you in the near future?

Rio: Hold tight! Follow @riotashan to keep an eye out.

A message to the people attending Defected Zagreb:

Rio: You’re in for a treat - See you there!

Defected Zagreb tickets are still available via Entrio. Get them now and see you at Boćarski Dom!