Kosovan DJ and producer, Regard, shares new track “You” with global superstars Troye Sivan and Tate McRae, and creates an exclusive mix for Notion.

Regard first garnered global attention with his debut single “Ride It” in 2019, which became an international hit, taking the internet and TikTok by storm. He quickly followed things up with his hit single “Secrets” featuring London singer RAYE. Regard has gone on to achieve over 10x Top 10 single chart placements globally, and in the UK, “Ride It” has sold over 1 million records to date, while “Secrets” was recently certified Platinum, amassing 2.2 billion total streams.

 

Following the announcement of “Secrets” receiving a 2021 BRIT Award nomination for Best British Single, the DJ and producer has shared his brand new single “You” with star studded vocal performances from Troye Sivan and Tate McRae. Sophisticated, euphoric, and effortlessly sultry, the 80s inspired anthem flirts between Troye and Tate’s ethereal and confessional lyricism.

 

Speaking on the new track, Regard says, “I’m so excited that ‘You’ is finally being released! The entire song gives me wavy emotions with the angelic vocals from Tate and Troye”. Tate adds “Collaborating with Troye and Regard was an amazing experience. It’s a totally different vibe than any of my usual songs, but still has the emotional and lyrical depth that I always try to write”.

 

Now, Regard creates an exclusive mix for Notion for when you’re in need of a bit of a pick-me-up. Jump in!

How did DJing start for you? Can you remember the first night you played as Regard and how did it go?

I started DJing when I was only 17 years old, and the first gig I ever did was in my friend’s lounge. It was great but I’m definitely better now…

When did you start working on “You” and what was it like working with such incredible talents in Troye Sivan and Tate McRae?

We worked on “You” for quite a few months, and did more than 10 versions! It’s so great to work with such renowned artists like Troye and Tate.

“You” is full of 80s inspiration. Why is that Gen Z are still obsessed with the nostalgic sounds of the 60s, 70s and 80s and is there a comparative musical genre of today that you think will still be around in 50 years’ time?
Yes! “You” is totally based on the vibe of 80s music. It sounds so fresh. We wanted to add instrumentals that feel like they bring real meaning to life. I think people still love it because it makes us dance (which is the most important thing!)
You’ve also had huge success with previous tracks, “Ride It” and “Secrets”, blowing up on TikTok. What are your views on the platform and seeing the impact it’s had on music charts and the industry as a whole?

Yeah, most of my audience comes from TikTok, because I want people to have fun with my songs! I think it’s great because the possibilities are endless and video content resonates with all different ages across social media.

What has it been like having this success during a global pandemic and what have you learned about yourself as a DJ and producer during this time?

I’ve had much more time to stay inside the studio, and working on different records… I’ve learned how to manage my stress during this time and share more love with people!

Having previous tracks that sample or remix vocals and now a single that works exclusively with two artists, what method of production do you prefer and how do the benefits between the two differ?

Each record is different, and I like both of them for different reasons. I don’t have a preference, the benefits are endless with both!

Is there anywhere in particular that you’ve always dreamed of playing at? Venue or event or festival?

Because there are so many festivals around the world, I would say a festival in each country around the world would be amazing!

What single night out has been the most memorable for you? Firstly, as a DJ and also as an attendee?

My first memorable night out was when I DJ’d at a high school party, and also when I first played “Ride It”…

What is one track that never gets old for you no matter how many times you play it?

“Daddy Cool” by Boney M.

Talk us through your exclusive mix for Notion? Why have you chosen the tracks featured and when is the best time to listen to it?

I’ve chosen my best playlist for Notion, and the best time to listen to it is when you’re low on energy and need a pick up for the day…

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