Besar Likaj Interview | Respect the Producer | @besarlikaj
How did you get your name?
My name was given to me by my uncle. An Albanian name that translates to “golden loyalty”. In Albania, loyalty serves as a fundamental cornerstone in our culture and has been a major player in my success, professionally speaking. As the Spanish speakers already know, this name also means “to kiss”. And yes, this has also helped me out in my private life LOL.
How did you get into Producing?
From the very beginning, my whole world has revolved around music. Having started piano lessons at the age of 6 my first song was composed by the time I reached my 9th birthday.
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
I finished my studies at the Conservatory of Paris when I was 22 and had a lot of compositions finalized by this time. This was frustrating due to the fact that none of them were ever produced. At this point, the decision was made to continue my education by attending a sound engineering and music production school. After having this experience, I found myself pumped at the thought of finding a studio job, but the only job I found was as a casting director for “The Voice of France”. At the beginning, I was frustrated and disappointed to not be on the artistic side of the industry but after the 3 seasons, I began to realize how this experience had taught me to interact with artists, how to convince and inspire them. This has helped me a lot now that I have my own music label/studio @ariarecordsparis with my business partner Emmanuel.
What did your first setup look like?
Should I call this setup? I made my first production with my father’s dying computer when I was 15. I lost my “production virginity” with Fruity Loops but I used to cheat on him with Cubase from time to time. Still, Fruity Loops was my first and biggest love.
What does your current setup look like?
Hardware
Universal Audio Apollo X6
Universal Audio 6167
Neumann U87
Neumann KH120
Nektar Impact LX88+
Roli blocks
Software
Logic
UAD
Celemony
Antares
Native
iZotope
Output
Splice
How did you get your Producer/Artist name?
My producer name is my real name. Given its originality and chime, I never felt the need to change it.
If you could produce for any artist (dead or alive), who would it be?
I’m mainstream so mainstream artists are my goal. I have a preference for my Albanian artists like BB Rexha, Dua Lipa, Rita Ora, Ava Max etc... But if you could grant me a wish, I would ask you to bring back Amy Winehouse?? I’d also love to do a collaboration with Max Martin.
What is your goal when you create?
When I create, I AM THE AUDIENCE, so if I’m not surprising myself then I’m not satisfied. Pushing boundaries is always my goal.
What's your go-to song right now?
I’d have to say right now my go-to song is Fever by Dua Lipa and Angèle. With its catchy synth and banger chorus enjoyed by both the English speakers and the Frenchies alike.
What is your dream as a Producer?
Beautiful collaborations, longevity, transmitting my passion ... and of course the Grammy Awards.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to become a Producer?
Honestly, there is no secret formula. Just the obvious: work. Only this can cultivate your references, talent, self-confidence, and your ideas...
I guess when you are a passionate individual you don’t need much advice. Just try with diligence and enjoy the adventure.
Where can people find you? (social media, website, etc)
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/besarlikaj/
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/ariarecordsparis/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/besarlikajproducer
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ariarecordsparis
YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/c/ALLONMUSIC
Photography: Damien Boisson-Berçu ,
A special thank for Brennan McClure (he helped me to get a perfect english for this interview) and the TikTok studio account @ariarecords
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