Orjan Nilsen Discusses His Global Ultra Appearances and 12 Years on Armin's Label in an iEDM Exclusive Interview

From San Paulo to Sydney, and everywhere in between, Orjan Nilsen can be found tearing the club up with his groovy trance and lively stage presence. Along with all his major festival appearances and a strong backing by Armin van Buuren and his Armada label, this Norwegian DJ and producer is on the path to his own destiny. 

There is no stopping Orjan Nilsen. The drive and motivation of this specific individual is as transparent as glass. Speaking of glass, Orjan and I tipped our glasses backstage at Ultra Europe 2017 before this quick iEDM exclusive interview:

iEDM: You're at Ultra Europe, how does it feel?

Orjan Nilsen: Oh, dude. Ultra Europe is insane. You always get a sigh of relief when you jump off the plane because you just know it's going to be amazing. It's always the same every single year, and Ultra is growing so fast. It's now one of the biggest festivals in the world. It's just everywhere, and I think this is probably one of the biggest ones. 

iEDM: Are there any other Ultra's around the world that you're particularly fond of?

Orjan: Oh definitely. Actually, I'm lucky enough to have been booked for a couple of them. I'm playing Ultra Mexico, which is going to be amazing, I love Mexico. Those people are nuts and passionate. They're basically like me. I really looking forward to it. 

iEDM: You've been on the Armada label for over 10 years now, what's it like working with the Armada team?

Orjan: I started working with Armada a couple years after they opened up, so right now it's just a big family. I can't see myself working with anybody else, and I don't know how many artists can actuallly say that. A lot of artists like to shop around a look at different labels, I see no need to. I have found my home, and hopefully I get to stay there for another twelve years at least!

iEDM: I hear you're taking over A State Of Trance with Andrew Rayel for Armin van Buuren pretty soon while he's on holiday. Do you have anything special planned for that?

Orjan: I do, but I can't say too much about it because it will actually be a surprise to Armin as well. He doesn't know about it. You'll just have to tune in. 

iEDM: What goals are you looking to accomplish over the next few years?

Orjan: I'd like to go on a solo tour and sell out big venues. That would be my dream, to see people come together to enjoy my music. It's kind of a selfish thing, but I'd really just love to see that. To see who would actually get into it, to see if they would appreciate the music as much as I appreciate making it. I'd go everywhere in the world. If the penguins in Antarctica like my music, I'll be there.  

iEDM: You're going to the states later this year. How would you say festivals from the US differ from festivals in Europe?

Orjan: Well of course theres a lot more trap at US festivals. I'm not a big fan of trap, but there are a couple songs that I think are really well produced. As a producer I can enjoy it. And quite frankly, you guys [US] go nuts! I love it, it's crazy. It's like the only place in the world that I get regular titty flashes and stuff. I'm sorry but I just love how wild you get. 

iEDM: Do you have anything else you'd like your fans to know?

Orjan: First of all, my fans have been so supportive! In the US as well. They come to my shows every time I'm in town, even if I'm there 3 or 4 times a year. They still come and check me out. The dedication of the US fans is fantastic, thank you so much. 

You guys know how to have a good time, and that's one thing I lack in other places in the world. Go nuts, don't care! It's your one night, have the freedom and the will to just go have fun. I don't know, I'm Norwegian, we do the same thing. Have a good night!

Whether Orjan Nilsen is playing at a festival you are at, or a club in your hometown, his performance is not to be missed. Thank you for speaking with me, Orjan. We invite our readers to go check out more artist interviews on iEDM.