Kidoo

Electronic music is a place that thrives on evolution, and few artists embody this concept as vividly as Kidoo. From his beginnings as a 12-year-old DJ in small Romanian clubs to gracing iconic stages like DC10 Circoloco and Fabric London, Kidoo has carved a unique path through passion, resilience, and authenticity. His story reflects not just his journey but the power of determination and connection in the world of music.

This article delves into Kidoo’s story, the essence of his craft, and the profound insights he shared during our interview. We’ll explore the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the philosophy behind his music, and the challenges he has faced along the way. In doing so, we hope to offer a window into the heart and mind of one of electronic music’s rising stars.

Kidoo’s story begins in Romania, where his early exposure to music set the stage for a lifetime of creative exploration. Starting as a DJ at just 12 years old, he quickly made a name for himself in his hometown. By the age of 13, he was performing for crowds of 700 to 1000 people. Reflecting on those formative years, Kidoo shared:

"There were many nights when things didn’t go as planned—moments when I was still learning how to read the crowd and curate the perfect music selection. Those early experiences pushed me to adapt quickly and shaped my understanding of what it means to connect with an audience."

This foundation of adaptability and connection became central to Kidoo’s philosophy as an artist. He emphasized that every performance, no matter its scale, is a learning opportunity. Whether delivering a one-hour set or a 12-hour marathon, Kidoo pours the same passion and attention to detail into his craft. Kidoo’s stage name is not just a moniker but a reflection of his journey and identity. He explained:

"The essence of Kidoo lies in authenticity and connection. It’s about embracing creativity, spontaneity, and joy while staying connected to the passion and spirit that defined my beginnings."

The nickname "Kidoo" emerged from his early days as a young performer, surrounded by seasoned professionals. It symbolizes his youthful energy and determination, qualities that continue to define his approach to music and life.

Receiving support from industry giants like Michael Bibi, Marco Carola, and Jamie Jones is a milestone that few achieve. For Kidoo, this recognition is both humbling and inspiring. He shared:

"Having my tracks supported by legends is incredibly motivating. It’s a reminder that the music I create resonates not just with audiences but also with the very people who have inspired me."

Despite the pressure to maintain momentum, Kidoo remains grounded by his passion for music, focusing on evolving his sound while staying true to his artistic identity.

Kidoo’s collaboration with SOSA on "Mezcal Bounce" showcases his talent for crafting infectious grooves. With its standout trumpet hook and playful lyrics, the track has amassed over 250k streams.

"The funky lyrics and unique trumpet hook gave ‘Mezcal Bounce’ its energy. It was a spontaneous collaboration that turned into something we’re really proud of."

Meanwhile, his track "Hora de Joc," inspired by Romanian folk music, reflects his commitment to blending tradition with innovation.

“Hora de Joc’ is a very personal track for me, as it’s deeply inspired by my Romanian roots and the traditional sounds I grew up with. When producing the track, my focus wasn’t just on honoring tradition—I also wanted to infuse it with the energy and groove that defines Solid Grooves. The result? A perfect blend of Romania’s musical heritage and a modern tech-house groove designed for the dance floor. The inspiration came to me while immersing myself in Romanian “muzică populară” (traditional folk music). One defining element that stood out was the soulful sound of the shepherd’s flute, a key component in our traditional melodies. For this track, I crafted a unique melodic line using the flute, specifically tailored to bring an authentic yet fresh vibe. As a Romanian artist, I’ve always wanted to create something that truly represents my roots, something that could be instantly recognized worldwide as uniquely Kidoo . That’s exactly what I set out to achieve with my track “Hora de Joc”—which translates to “A Dance of Celebration” or simply, a traditional folk dance.”

Performing at venues like DC10 Circoloco and Fabric London is a testament to Kidoo’s talent and determination. He approaches these legendary stages with a sense of responsibility and freedom to experiment.

"At iconic venues, I aim to create a journey that keeps the crowd on their toes with unexpected twists. The audiences push me to deliver my absolute best every time."

Balancing the demands of a touring DJ’s life requires discipline and passion. Kidoo credits fitness, clean eating, and moments of unplugging as essential practices for staying grounded.

“The life of a touring DJ can be intense, with late nights, constant travel, and the pressure to always bring fresh energy to every performance. For me, staying grounded is all about balance and consistency in the small things. I’ve developed routines that help me recharge, no matter how chaotic the schedule gets. Fitness plays a big role for me. It’s not just about staying physically fit but also about clearing my mind and boosting my energy. Eating clean, taking vitamins and staying hydrated is another big focus, especially during long tours”.

“Creatively, I find inspiration everywhere—in the places I travel to, the people I meet, and even in quiet moments between gigs. I always make time for studio sessions because that’s where I reconnect with my love for creating music. It’s also important to unplug sometimes, whether it’s spending time with loved ones or simply stepping away from the music to reset my perspective”.

Ultimately, it’s about staying passionate and remembering why I started this journey in the first place. That passion fuels everything, even during the busiest times.

As 2024 progresses, Kidoo is excited about new collaborations and solo projects.

"One of the highlights is a track blending unexpected elements—I think it will surprise and excite listeners. It’s about building a deeper connection with my audience and sharing my journey through music."

From chart-topping releases to unforgettable live performances, Kidoo’s future is a promising continuation of his creative evolution.

Kidoo’s story, filled with challenges, milestones, and dedication, inspires artists and audiences alike.

Reflecting on his interview, I was struck by the humility and authenticity that permeate his responses. Kidoo’s philosophy—that music is about connection, both on and off the dancefloor—resonates deeply. In a world that often prioritizes success over substance, Kidoo reminds us of the importance of staying true to one’s roots and values.

"Music is not just sound; it’s a shared experience that transcends language and culture," Kidoo remarked during our conversation. This insight encapsulates the essence of his artistry—a celebration of creativity, connection, and joy.

As we look to the future, Kidoo’s journey invites us to embrace our own passions with courage and authenticity. In doing so, we too can create something that resonates beyond ourselves, leaving a legacy of connection and inspiration.