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Kolter is a dynamic German DJ and producer hailing from Cologne, celebrated for his fresh and innovative take on house music. Formerly known as DJOKO, he has made significant strides in the electronic music scene, releasing tracks on esteemed labels like PIV, Shall Not Fade, and Berg Audio. In addition to his production work, Kolter manages his own imprints, HOOVE and Koltrax, which have become platforms for forward-thinking house music. His DJ sets are renowned for their fluidity and genre-blending, captivating audiences at iconic venues such as DC-10 in Ibiza, Rex Club in Paris, and Shelter in Amsterdam. With a career spanning nearly a decade, Kolter continues to push the boundaries of electronic music, earning a dedicated following worldwide.
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| Country | Germany |
|---|---|
| Knows languages | German, English |
| Occupations | musical artist, DJ, producer |
| Genres | House, Minimal House |
| Real name | Johannes Kolter |
| Also known as | DJOKO |
| Labels | PIV, Shall Not Fade, Berg Audio, HOOVE, Koltrax |
| Instruments | Turntables, Sampler |
| Years active | 2016–present |
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Early Life
Johannes Kolter, known professionally as Kolter, was born and raised in Cologne, Germany. From a young age, he exhibited a profound interest in music, particularly drawn to the rhythmic and melodic structures of electronic genres. This passion led him to explore various facets of music production and DJing during his teenage years. Immersing himself in Cologne's vibrant electronic music scene, Kolter honed his skills by attending local events and collaborating with fellow enthusiasts. His early experiences laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the music industry.
Career
Kolter's professional journey began under the alias DJOKO, under which he gained recognition for his unique approach to house music. His productions, characterized by a blend of deep grooves and intricate rhythms, caught the attention of prominent labels such as PIV, Shall Not Fade, and Berg Audio. In 2016, he co-founded the event brand HOOVE with his friend Thalo Santana, aiming to promote forward-thinking house music in Cologne's predominantly techno scene. The success of HOOVE events led to the establishment of the HOOVE label in 2020, further solidifying Kolter's influence in the industry.
In 2023, seeking a more personal connection with his audience, he transitioned to using his surname, Kolter, as his professional moniker. This change marked a new chapter in his career, accompanied by the launch of his second imprint, Koltrax, dedicated to releasing some of his most in-demand unreleased productions. Kolter's versatility as a producer and DJ has been showcased through his dynamic performances at renowned venues like DC-10 in Ibiza, Rex Club in Paris, and Shelter in Amsterdam, as well as appearances at major festivals such as Tomorrowland.
Discography
Kolter's discography reflects his evolution as an artist and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of house music. Notable releases include the 'Washed Away' EP on PIV Records in 2019, which received acclaim for its fresh take on the genre. In 2024, he released the 'That Was Fresh' EP on Up The Stuss, showcasing his rhythmic genius and experimental flair. The EP features standout tracks like 'That Was Fresh' and 'This Is It,' which have been praised for their catchy vocal samples and groovy basslines. Additionally, his 'Keep Bustin'' EP, released in January 2024, further demonstrates his ability to blend classic house elements with modern production techniques. Through his labels HOOVE and Koltrax, Kolter continues to release music that resonates with both underground enthusiasts and mainstream audiences.
Influence
Kolter's influence extends beyond his productions and performances. By co-founding HOOVE, he played a pivotal role in revitalizing Cologne's house music scene, providing a platform for emerging artists and fostering a community centered around innovative sounds. His collaborations with artists like Chris Stussy under the Stussko alias have further solidified his reputation as a versatile and forward-thinking producer. Kolter's commitment to authenticity and his ability to seamlessly blend various sub-genres have inspired a new generation of DJs and producers to explore and experiment within the electronic music landscape.
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