JAM asks...DJ and Producer Parov Stelar
Parov Stelar, born Marcus Füreder, is a globally acclaimed musician and a pioneer of Electroswing, blending jazz, swing, and electronic music into his distinctive style. Since his breakthrough in 2004 with the EP KissKiss, he has achieved worldwide recognition with hits like All Night and The Mojo Radio Gang. With the Parov Stelar Band, he continues to captivate audiences in arenas and at major festivals worldwide.
In 2024 and 2025, Parov Stelar embarks on a world tour, featuring his classic tracks alongside songs from his acclaimed 2022 album Moonlight Love Affair. This album showcases an evolution of his sound, combining his signature style with fresh, innovative elements. Simultaneously, he is working on new projects, further intertwining music and visual art, a hallmark of his creative vision. More details about his work and upcoming events are available on his official website.
How much does your art inspire you to make music, and your music to make art?
Music and art are two sides of the same coin for me. When composing, visual images often appear in my mind, and conversely, certain melodies or beats inspire me while painting. It’s a symbiosis—both worlds depend on and enrich each other. In my world, one cannot exist without the other.
An exciting summer awaits you. How do you recharge between performances?
Even though it’s autumn or almost winter now, this question can be answered generally: Between shows, I seek peace, whether through time with my family or—if they’re not with me—private moments on the tour bus or in a hotel. Balancing adrenaline and relaxation is crucial.
What has been the best moment with an audience so far?
There have been countless magical moments, but one of the most impressive was a festival in Paris (Fête de l’Humanité), where we played in front of over 100,000 people. I will never forget that energy.
What does your studio look like?
My studio is chaotic and structured at the same time. It reflects my creative mind: organized chaos. For me, a studio is a work of art in itself and the source of all other works.
Do you have any rituals before or after a performance?
Before a performance, I need a few minutes to center myself. This includes a cold beer and a group hug with my band and crew.
How important is jazz to you in everyday life and as a musician?
Jazz is a foundation and an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Its freedom and improvisation have shaped me.
Jazz artists without whose influence parts of your music wouldn’t exist?
Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Artie Shaw, and Chet Baker—their music is a true treasure trove. Billie Holiday, in particular, inspired me. She was my personal kickstart when one of her songs got stuck on my record player. I made a loop out of it and added a kick drum underneath.
What worked well at the beginning of your career? What could have been better?
What worked well was my creative freedom—I simply did what I felt. It was more difficult at first because no label was interested, so I founded my own.
What do you hope your musical/artistic legacy will be?
I hope people will see my music as a journey—something that evokes emotions and perhaps inspires new thoughts.
Being a father is like...?
...the most intense and beautiful form of responsibility and love.
How important is jazz as a foundation for other musical styles?
Jazz teaches freedom, improvisation, and a deep understanding of musical structures—priceless fundamentals for any direction in music.
Should your art hang in a museum? Should your music accompany an exhibition?
My art is already in museums... It makes me proud that my visual art is as appreciated as my music.
What would be your core message to music students?
Stay true to yourself and be patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight; it comes through passion and perseverance. At first, no one understood my music, but I kept going until it grew bigger and gained recognition.
Is there a jazz era you would have liked to live in?
The swing era of the late 1920s to 1940s had a special magic. However, given the circumstances of that time, I wouldn’t have wanted to live then.
How important are subjects like self-management and stage fright management?
Extremely important. These skills are essential to realizing an artistic vision in the long term.
Should there be more interdisciplinary courses?
Absolutely. Collaborations between music, art, acting, and other fields open up new perspectives and foster creativity.
Preparing for the music business in music schools—important or very important?
Very important. Artists should know their rights and how to manage themselves. A basic understanding of the music industry and business is essential unless you blindly trust a manager—which I would generally advise against.
How does it feel to be on stage?
Being on stage feels like being in another reality—it’s an indescribable high. This is where what you’ve built in the studio is tested. It’s proof of whether it works.
Being part of a band means...?
...empathy, trust, and knowing that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Is there religion in your music?
Not directly, but spiritual elements do flow in from time to time.
Does jazz still stand for integration, harmony, and equality?
Jazz has always embodied these values, even if they’re sometimes overlooked today. It’s important to emphasize them again.
If your friends were songs, what would they sound like?
Like a colorful mix of melancholy, euphoria, and pure fun—all in perfect chaos. 😊
Photos by Tanja Schalling
