SLAPPER is an electronic music producer and musician active since 1998, shaped by a deep connection to 1980s electronic and synth-driven music.
Before focusing on original productions, he spent over a decade as a DJ in Bucharest, where he refined his musical identity and shared stages as a warm-up DJ for iconic acts such as Alphaville and De/Vision.
Drawing from electro, synthpop, synthwave, and techno, SLAPPER’s current work leans toward cinematic, emotionally driven instrumental music built around atmosphere and melody. Following the release of his acclaimed album, Hope, in November, he continues to evolve his sound with “Into the Light,” an uplifting single that marks the next chapter in his sonic journey.
With “Into the Light” out now, we took some time to hear from SLAPPER. Read below to learn more about SLAPPER, the story behind “Into the Light,” and what’s to come.
Hi SLAPPER! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?
Hi! The name, “SLAPPER,” actually comes from the late ’90s, when I bought my first MIDI controller and started experimenting with music. I noticed that I kept gravitating toward using the “slap bass” sound in many of my early ideas, and I thought “SLAPPER” could make an interesting artist name. There’s also a bit of a cheeky edge to it, which made it more memorable as a first impression. The funny thing is, despite the name, my sound is actually on the opposite side of the dictionary – there’s nothing vulgar about it – so it’s a bit of an ironic twist.
What city are you from, and where are you based now?
I was born in Bucharest, where I studied, work, and live – by day I’m an economist, and by night (and every free moment) music has become my second job. Over the last decade, I’ve traveled across Europe for a month or two each year, chasing some of my favorite bands, so I like to say that, in a way, I’m a true European…or maybe a European citizen of music!
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
I started messing with music at home, but things got real in 2005 when I stepped in as a keyboardist for a local band, playing two covers I still remember clearly: “Narcotic” by Liquido and “It’s No Good” by Depeche Mode. That led to a couple of local projects, some original songs, and even a Depeche Mode tribute in 2006, right before their first Bucharest concert.
From 2008 to 2015, I DJed in clubs across the city, sometimes warming up concerts or helping with local festival lineups.
After 2015, I focused on enjoying concerts and releasing a few covers online. In 2023, I returned with new sounds – and since then, I’ve released an album every year.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
I’d describe my sound as synthpop and synthwave at the core, pushed forward by techno and trance influences. It’s largely instrumental, with occasional vocal samples used more like textures than lead vocals.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
When I have time, I love traveling, and I’m also really into gadgets and technology in general. Creativity, for me, is heavily influenced by inner states, memories, and the crazy world we live in…there’s always something happening that shocks, inspires, or challenges you.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
My main influences come from the ’80s synthpop and new wave era – artists like Depeche Mode, Jean-Michel Jarre, Ultravox, Simple Minds, O.M.D., Kraftwerk, Pet Shop Boys, and a-ha. That foundation is combined with the electro, techno, and trance sounds of the ’90s and 2000s, with artists such as Moby, Paul van Dyk, Chicane, Robert Miles, The Chemical Brothers, and The Crystal Method.
Who would be a dream to collaborate with?
If I could pick any dream collaboration, it would be getting in the studio with Martin Gore, Vince Clarke, Jean-Michel Jarre, or Midge Ure. They’ve been a huge influence since my synth-teenage days, and the idea of working with them is incredibly inspiring.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
One of my proudest moments was in April 2008, when I warmed up as a DJ for Alphaville at Arenele Romane in Bucharest, playing in front of nearly 4,500 people. It was a surreal experience and a real milestone for me.
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?
I’d say the biggest lesson is “never say never” and to always expect Murphy’s Laws to be in effect. Music (and life in general) has a way of surprising you, and most of the interesting things happen when you least expect them.
Now onto your release, “Into the Light.” What inspired this song?
“Into the Light” was inspired by the desire to move forward after a period of unpleasant times. It reflects the mindset behind the entire Hope album—the idea of leaving darker moments behind and looking toward something brighter.
What was the inspiration behind the cover artwork for “Into the Light?”
The artwork was inspired by a sunrise in Ibiza, a moment that perfectly reflects the idea of transition, warmth, and moving into the light.
What was the creative process like when making “Into the Light?”
The track started very simply, with just two lines, followed by the search for the right bassline, arpeggios, and synth textures. It was initially conceived as a combination of trance and techno, but like many of my ideas, it was influenced by my synth-teenage roots and naturally evolved into a blend of synthpop, synthwave, and techno.
How long did it take to complete “Into the Light?”
It took almost three weeks to complete. I started working on it just before Christmas, and the final edit was finished around January 8th or 9th.
What do you hope fans take away from “Into the Light” and your music in general?
I hope fans take away emotion, a few crazy dancing moves from the video, and above all…hope – the kind of hope you feel when the sun rises after dark times. That’s really the heart of “Into the Light” and my music in general.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
I’m working on new songs and planning a full album this autumn, with a single each month leading up to it. Some tracks explore breakbeat, deep house, and big beat, which may become a separate EP, while the synthpop-synthwave sound will stay for the main album. I want to experiment without confusing the audience, keeping each project focused.
Nowadays, I prefer working in the studio – DJing could be an option from time to time, but not as a main activity. I’m not in my early 20s anymore, and I like to keep my energy for playing with sounds. That said, I’m still fascinated by how real genre legends like Kraftwerk or Jean-Michel Jarre continue to perform live, creating unforgettable moments for massive audiences.
Where can we follow you on social media?
Website: slapper-music.com (under construction)
Bandcamp: slapper-music.bandcamp.com
SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/slappermusic
Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/5nDAgHWAp9tnRwA3QMysZp
YouTube: youtube.com/@slapper-music
X (Twitter): x.com/slapper_music
Facebook: facebook.com/slappermusic
Instagram: instagram.com/slappermusic
TikTok: tiktok.com/@slapper_music
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
