German DJ, producer, mobilee records label head and broadcaster, Anja Schneider wears many hats within the music industry. Schneider’s reputation as one of the industry’s hardest-working individuals propels her fame, with electric sets continually solidifying her on-stage persona. Be sure to have a listen to her latest mobilee release “Rain” out now on Beatport and embedded below.

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SunCity Paradise: Coming from Berlin, Germany, describe the city and its atmosphere a bit. What’s one aspect that really stands out to you and makes it special?

Anja Schneider: To say it with the words of our old mayor, “Berlin is poor, but sexy.” Of course it’s changing quite a lot since I [first came] here 20 years ago. Of course gentrification is everywhere and [it] didn’t stop for Berlin. But, here you still can find this little rebel charm when it comes to cultural things. Exhibitions, parties, dining can [still be found] in some unusual places, [but] you have to know the right people to know about it. That will never change in Berlin.

© Olli Henze

SCP: What was your first, real introduction to music? How did you get your initial inspiration? When did you know this is what you wanted to do with your life?

AS: Of course it was Kraftwerk which changed my life completely. Depeche Mode, The Cure, Anne Clark, Front 242 were my influences. I was always in this ‘Black gang’ and never left it. A bit of ‘Weltschmerz’ has to be in it also. I never had a master plan to work in music, but I felt, especially with the beginning of techno and acid house, that there was something starting where I want to be a part of. My heart was always with the radio. My first influences, and also my first mixtapes I did, were coming from radio. So, I ended up there and I’m still loving this.

SCP: How does music and travel complement and go hand-in-hand with each other?

AS: I travel because of the music, and I cannot think travelling without music. When you travel you smell different things, you see different things and you hear different things. That’s inspiring me to do music. Even when you are homesick, which happens of course, you can put this in your music.

SCP: When searching for a personal getaway, are you looking for a serene beach or after a more active, adventurous getaway? Why?

AS: When I was younger and not traveling so much, the adventures were absolutely my thing. I did paragliding in South Africa, and loved to spend as much time as possible on skis on the mountain. To work with your body to concentrate on this is the best relaxation, because you will forget the daily business directly. Nowadays, I love to go to the beach and just sit there watching the waves … how times change.

READ MORE: Travel Profile: Lee Van Dowski

SCP: One of our core objectives at SCP is to bring people together while traveling, not only to influence people to see and appreciate our beautiful world, but to also minimize cross-cultural divides. What effect does traveling, specifically surrounding dance music, have on humans in this regard? How has it broadened your perspective of the world?

AS: It changed everything; the more you see that’s different, the most open you are. You are losing your fear, and that’s the best and first step to respect.

© Jean-François Gornet

SCP: Everyone has a list of places that they still have to hit. What are three destinations, either for work or pleasure, that you need to see? Why?

AS: I really want to go to Morocco and Marrakech, because of [their] history, smell and food. Also, to follow my huge idol Yves Saint Laurent, and to get an idea why he became the genius that he was.

SCP: Most destinations have a festival that they’re known for, whether it’s Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Oktoberfest in Munich. Which one would you choose to attend? Why?

AS: As a German, I have to tell you I’ll go to Oktoberfest for the first time. I have a small feeling what will happen, but I’m ready to be surprised.

SCP: What is the most beautiful outdoor location that you’ve played at? How did the beauty add to the music?

AS: There are so many that’s hard to say. Big cities can be amazing. On a truck during a parade is as intense as being on the beach — playing during sunset and sunrise can be mind-blowing. Also, the desert can be from another world. So, it’s really hard to tell, but I’m thinking about Montreal and playing in -20° temperatures for Igloo Fest. This is when 10,000 people come together to have a good time, and they don’t [care] about the freezing temperatures!

SCP: When you’re relaxing on a beach, or just have some downtime, are you listening to dance music? Or, do you like to switch up the tunes? If so, to what?

AS: Mostly not dance music. Some old school hip hop or reggae.

© Scott Wylie

SCP: Lastly, when’s the next vacation and where to?

AS: Thinking about taking a month off in Sicily.

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For more on Anja Schneider purchase “Rain” on Beatport: