Belgian artist Nikka Lorak begins 2026 with an unapologetically intimate statement. Her new single ‘Desire’, out this month on Animarium, blends cinematic textures with deep, bass-driven energy, marking a bold new chapter for the artist now splitting her time between London and the Middle East. We sat down with Nikka to talk about the story behind the track, the evolution of her sound over the last year, her plans for the rest of the year, and more!
WWD: Hey Nikka! Welcome to When We Dip. What were some of your proudest moments in 2025, musically or otherwise?
2025 was a year of alignment for me. Speaking at IMS Dubai as a former film director felt like a full-circle moment, where different parts of my creative life finally converged. Musically, touring across very different cultural scenes, including India, Ibiza and then Africa for Africa Burn, were big milestones. I felt more grounded in who I am as an artist than ever before.
WWD: How did your sound evolve? What inspired you this year?
My sound became more focused should I say. I moved away from excess and leaned into tension, pacing, and emotional clarity. Traveling constantly between London, the Middle East, and Europe exposed me to very different energies, which pushed me to refine rather than expand. Inspiration came less from trends and more from lived experiences and emotional states.
WWD: You’ve had an amazing career in Film and Photography. When did you first start to think you would like to start making and playing music, and what triggered that passion?
Music was always present in my visual work, for example, as a Film Director I had been consistently working with music composers. Over time, I realised it was the emotional core behind everything I created. There wasn’t one dramatic moment. It was a gradual shift where sound became equally important to me as image. Eventually, I understood that I wanted to lead with music as much as to support a story visually.
WWD: What made you think it would work, and why does it work?
Because the skills transferred naturally. Storytelling, pacing, and emotional control are universal. It works because my approach to music is rooted in structure and intention, not novelty. I wasn’t starting from zero creatively, just changing the medium.
WWD: What five words best describe you, your music, and your personality?
Cinematic. Precise. Emotional. Restless. Passionate.
WWD: You have your upcoming single ‘Desire’ coming out in January. What are some key bits of gear or software that help you get your signature sound?
I focus more on workflow than specific gear. I work mainly in-the-box, layering software synths for texture and depth, and spending a lot of time on automation and spatial effects. Subtle distortion, controlled reverb, and dynamic bass movement are essential for shaping my sound.
WWD: How was your Christmas break? Where did you spend it and with who?
Quiet and family oriented. I spent it between travel and rest, away from the industry noise. It was important for me to reset creatively and mentally before starting a busy year.
WWD: What goals, hopes, and dreams do you have for 2026?
To release more music that deepens my sonic language, expand Between Flights as a conceptual platform, and continue performing in spaces that value emotional depth over spectacle. I’m focused on longevity rather than speed.
WWD: What could the dance music scene do better, in your opinion?
Slow down. Less saturation, more intention. There’s incredible talent, but too much pressure to constantly release, post, and perform. Space, patience, and risk-taking would benefit the scene creatively and culturally.
WWD: We agree! Thanks for the chat 🙂
‘Desire’ is available here