San Diego-based techno DJ Akona swung by to chat about her early influences in the scene, her love for acid-twinged sounds, and what’s in store for the future.
The sounds of techno have permeated every corner of the planet, and San Diego has emerged as one of the cities where the style has been a force to be reckoned with. Artists are carving out a niche and drawing in huge crowds, from major festivals to underground events. One of those artists who is laying claim within the genre’s confines is Akona, and she’s quickly become one to watch.
Originally from Moldova, Akona made her new home in San Diego and embarked on her journey as a DJ and producer just a year ago. In that time, she’s put her all into the project and has already begun to reap the rewards. Akona has become a frequent face on lineups, finding a home at venues like EQ and Avenue PB while playing shows hosted by Sxtcy, Techniche, Pirate Pandas, and Underwar3.
Akona has displayed her growing skills behind the decks by throwing down tunes that range from progressive house to trance, but her true calling has been within the acid techno realm. That’s the sound she championed as she started her journey as a producer, dropping her debut single, “LYRAN,” on Everyone On Acid to celebrate Halloween in style.
Looking to gain some added insight into her backstory and more, we caught up with Akona for a quality chat. Read on for the full conversation and listen to her exclusive guest mix to taste her mind-melting style.
Stream EDMID Guest Mix 444 || Akona on SoundCloud:
Hi Akona, thanks so much for taking the time to chat with us today. To start this off, let’s turn back the clock a bit. Do you remember the first time you heard electronic music? Who were some artists who helped you develop a passion for it?
This question brings me back to a time of bittersweet nostalgia. My first experience with electronic music was with trance as a teenager back home in Moldova. Back then, I wasn’t close to the culture—my exposure was limited to what played on the radio or TV. But trance music drew me in deeply; I loved it so much that listening felt like a painful kind of beauty. It held a melancholy that transported me to a world I wasn’t yet ready to explore, a place that felt out of reach.
When I moved to California, my connection to electronic music was reignited. I remember my first show in 2021, just after COVID-19, with Alesso headlining. I instantly fell in love with the scene; it felt like I had finally stumbled upon a part of life I hadn’t known existed. Melodic techno and progressive house became my world. Since that day, I haven’t looked back.
As for the artists who’ve shaped me, there are many, and they each deserve recognition. But if I had to name two, they’d be my favorites: Marie Vaunt and A*S*Y*S*, the Queen and King of acid techno. They opened doors to a sound and a passion that I’m still exploring every day.
Was there a specific moment that you realized you wanted to pursue DJing as a career? How did you take your first steps as an artist?
I often wonder when the decision to become a DJ truly took root. My love for music began with dreams of being a singer, so there must have been a quiet shift somewhere, a moment when my gaze moved from the stage to the decks. I suppose the transition was as natural as it was unexpected, and now, wonderfully, I have the chance to do both, blending my voice and my passion.
The real turning point came after countless nights at festivals and raves. Exploring the nightlife and listening to so many live sets—I started to feel I could bring my own vision to the scene. I developed this almost otherworldly obsession with acid techno, and I felt this deep pull to share it. I wanted to bring that magic to the stage and show people the electric pulse of acid sound, and I knew I could do it justice with my fire for it! I knew I could be the one to channel it.
Once I knew I wanted to DJ, it was about making it happen: saving up for equipment, finding a mentor, practicing. There wasn’t a doubt in my mind I’d make it work—I could see it all so clearly. Life threw some hard times at me, personally and health-wise, so my path got delayed. But I kept that vision alive; I’d picture a crowd in front of me, almost dream-like at times.
Then came the day my first DJ controller arrived. I had only a few lessons under my belt when I got my first gig. I wasn’t ready, but a promoter gave me a nudge (or more like a shove) into the deep end. There I was, learning to DJ on stage in real-time. To this day, I’m still learning while performing—and there’s no shame in that! I’m grateful for every step.
After my first show, opportunities kept flowing in, and I began building my brand and my niche. I haven’t taken a single day off, mentally or physically, from music. And anytime self-doubt hits me, all it takes is one acid track to snap me back. This is why you’ve got to love what you’re doing; when it gets tough and you want to walk away, you can’t—because you’d be lost without it.
Your mixes have been filled with acid-twinged elements and even a touch of trance. What speaks to you about these two genres specifically?
Acid and trance—these genres are like the sun and the moon, the poet and their muse. To say I am fascinated by them is an understatement. acid is electrifying, raw, and powerful, while trance wraps it all in a beautiful light.
To clarify, acid techno is my signature sound. Trance, on the other hand, is an indescribable feeling that doesn’t quite translate. I have a deep, infinite, creative mind that sometimes scares me; it is overwhelming, and that’s why I strive to channel that energy into my sets, inviting others on a journey with me, even if sometimes it’s just for an hour.
The sound of acid is infinite. Imagine two frayed red and black cables coming together, igniting a brilliant electric light—this is what acid does to my consciousness and my brain; it electrifies my very nerves.
Every time I hear a new acid track, it hits me as hard as the first time, and if I’m fortunate enough to be driving while listening, I can’t help but scream! ( laughs )
For some, it may sound like an angry scratch, but for me, it is the most uplifting and healing sound imaginable. If I haven’t yet convinced you of my devotion to acid, let me leave you with this: I would give up anything for this sound. It has saved me.
Beyond your performances, you’ve been producing music and dropped your first-ever track, “The Lyran,” on Everything On Acid. How does it feel to release this for the world to hear?
I began my journey into music production this year in February, and I am deeply grateful to my mentor, Killmor, an incredible techno artist who played a significant role in bringing ‘The Lyran’ to life. This track has gone through its share of turbulence, and there’s a profound story behind it.
It means so much to me, not just as my first release but also as my inaugural experience of creating a song from scratch and witnessing its evolution from a simple kick and bass into a piece with its own identity. The song embodies a mixture of love, nerves, and pain, all woven together.
To have the opportunity to release it on one of my favorite labels, ‘Everyone On Acid,’ feels almost surreal. I feel blessed to share a part of myself with the world; it’s like a small window into my soul. I can’t wait to share more of my music—it almost feels like it’s no longer just mine; my music belongs to the world now.
The emotions I’m experiencing are a beautiful blend of gratitude, shock, dreaminess, and excitement. I am incredibly proud of this achievement.
You’re originally from Moldova, but you now call San Diego home. What led you to decide to relocate here, and was there any culture shock after the move?
Like many others, I dreamed of achieving the American dream. To put it simply, I aspired to be a singer, but I also knew I didn’t quite belong in Moldova. It’s been nine years since I left home, and I still haven’t had the chance to return.
My journey took several twists before I finally arrived in San Diego. I spent five years in Seattle, and while I love the rain, I always longed for the warmth and vibrancy of California. San Diego felt like the perfect city for me. I moved here without knowing anyone and without a job or friends, driven by my adventurous spirit and determination to follow my dreams, no matter how crazy or daunting they seemed.
Looking back, relocating was the best decision of my life. I am who I am today because I took that bold step in 2020, and I proudly call San Diego my home now.
When I first moved to the U.S., I don’t recall experiencing any major culture shock. From the moment I arrived at the airport, it felt like home—I never felt like a stranger, not even for a day. Of course, I have to admit that it’s a completely different world compared to Moldova. If you ever want to travel back in time, I recommend a visit to my country—it’s a unique experience! I love my homeland and proudly carry that patriotism with me.
The people, the food, the mentality, the culture—it’s all distinct. Before moving to the States, I had this wild imagination that America was another planet! (And let’s be honest, sometimes I felt like a deer lost in a vast jungle.) However, I wouldn’t say I experienced any real shock. I consider myself tough, strong, and open-minded, and this helped tremendously.
San Diego has become well-known for its thriving house and techno scene. Can you share what your personal and professional experience has been like being part of this community?
The techno scene in San Diego may not be vast, but I see this as an opportunity rather than a limitation. I’ve had the privilege of meeting incredible artists, promoters, and genuine music lovers. In many ways, this community has become my family, especially since I don’t have any relatives here. When I feel lonely at home, the support from this community often fills that void.
However, the journey isn’t without its challenges. I sense a competitive spirit among artists, and while real support mainly comes from fans, a few genuine fellow artists, and some promoters, it’s a mixed bag. Unfortunately, some question my success, attributing it to my appearance rather than my talent or hard work. They might think that things have come too quickly for me. However, the reality is that everyone has their own unique path in this industry. I take their skepticism as a compliment rather than let it discourage me; it inspires me to push harder.
This industry can be tough and dirty, but I remain committed to the music above all else. As the saying goes, “There are two reasons why people don’t mind their business: no mind or no business.” I keep my circle small and value the genuine connections I’ve made. I’m dedicated to giving back to this community that has provided me with a platform to share my passion for music.
Finally, what goals do you hope to achieve in the rest of 2024 and into 2025?
As I look ahead, my focus is on delivering epic and unforgettable acid techno sets at my shows. I plan to expand my reach by playing more gigs outside of San Diego and releasing new music. I’ve been hard at work on several unreleased tracks that you can hear in my guest mix that are still searching for the right label.
I aim to continue developing the Akona experience. For me, this is more than just being a DJ; it’s a calling to create a unique musical performance. I have some exciting projects on the horizon, and my determination to make it happen has never been stronger.
