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Ben Bakson is headlining the famed Xlsior Festival on the Greek Isle of Mykonos. This wild party on the Mediterranean takes place this Saturday, August 20. And we have the exclusive lowdown from Bakson on what fans and partygoers can expect this weekend, as well as some interesting biographical tidbits on this small-town boy who is making a big name for himself under the bright lights.
Bakson grew up in a small village in Germany where he enjoyed long days listening to music at the lake with family and friends. When he turned 18, he moved to Berlin to study economics, and after graduating college he landed a marketing job at a large firm. That’s when he began dabbling in music production.
Five years later, Bakson is now working full-time in music production. His music style is considered commercial with hard, emotional, and energetic beats. Vocals are important to Ben as he believes that they are the soul of every song. He is noted for re-working famous songs from the 80s and 90s, as he did recently with Cutting Crew’s “(I Just) Died in your Arms,” but is also making a name on the dancefloor with his original compositions.
His latest single, “You Got Me,” is a high-energy club banger featuring the vocals of Australian pop singer OMEO. He premiered the song at his recent parties in Sao Paulo, San Francisco, Washington D.C., and NYC, and will do it again headlining the main event at the Xlsior Festival in Mykonos this Saturday.
Out Traveler: How would you describe Mykonos to someone who hasn’t been?
Bakson: I call Mykonos “the Magical Island.” I have traveled far and wide but have never experienced another place in the world quite like Mykonos. Mykonos is opulent. Everything about it – the hotels, beaches, and nightlife – is luxurious. The island is quite rocky, not very green, but with the most incredibly beautiful sunsets. Most of the parties take place outside, under the clear blue sky. To see the sunrise in the morning with amazing music playing is simply incredible.
How many times have you visited Mykonos?
I have been going to Mykonos for at least eight years. It’s become something of a second home. It’s actually where I got my start as a DJ. The Xlsior Festival in Mykonos was my first residency!
What are your favorite hot spots in Mykonos?
The town is beautiful with many restaurants and bars. One of my favorite clubs on the Island is Cavo Paradiso. Xlsior Festival will have the Sunday WE Party there this year. Super Paradise is my favorite beach. It has a gorgeous sea. The food is great and the cocktails are so nice. I have a big smile on my face just thinking about it.
What can fans expect from your set at Xlsior Festival this Saturday?
I am very proud to headline the Saturday Main Event. It will be my very first Saturday night! The whole production of the event will be next level. There will even be a big fireworks show! I personally love the whole lineup for the night, especially our star singer Maya Simantov, who I adore. I will for sure play my new original track, “You Got Me, and I will have a great surprise intro with my new remix of KSHMR’s “Invisible Children.”
Will you have a chance to experience any other dance floors at Xlsior Festival?
I will be in Mykonos during the whole Festival and for sure will enjoy the other events!
Are you packed and ready to go? What are your three must-have items for Xlsior Festival?
My Headphones, my USB sticks with my music, and my Christian Dior sunglasses.
Ben Bakson’s “You Got Me” featuring OMEO is available now on Apple Music, Spotify, and all platforms. Visit xlsiorfestival.com.
