CEAUS: “Seeing people vibing with you from all kinds of different cultures or social circles is just amazing”

At just 20 years old, Istanbul-based artist CEAUS (real name Demir Yurdabayrak) has already made notable strides in the electronic music scene. Having started his musical journey at the age of eight and later mentored by established Turkish names like Mahmut Orhan and Sezer Uysal, CEAUS quickly developed a sound that bridges melodic textures with genre-crossing experimentation. In 2023, he became the youngest artist to release on prominent labels such as Anjunadeep, Colorize, and Purified Records. Among these, his recent debut on Armada Music marked a key milestone, offering a wider international platform for his sound.

His productions have gained support from global radio platforms such as SiriusXM and BBC, while live performances have taken him to stages across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including appearances at UEFA’s Champions League Festival and clubs like Klein Phönix and Cavo Dubai. As CEAUS builds on his musical identity, he focuses on creating music that feels personal while connecting with listeners. In this conversation, he shares insights about his recent EP titled ‘Another Light’, the emotions behind his music, and his evolving production process.

You started playing instruments at the age of 8. How did your early musical experiences shape your approach to electronic music production?

Well, my father sparked my initial interest in music altogether. I was raised on famous rock bands like Blur, The Doors, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Led Zeppelin. Whenever I heard them in our car when I was a little toddler, I had a big smile on my face. I always dreamed of making rock music at first, of being part of a band — but life took a different turn.

Being mentored by Mahmut Orhan and Sezer Uysal during your high school years must have been impactful. What are some key influences you gained from them?

It definitely taught me a lot musically too, but especially in business aspects. When you look closely at those kinds of big players and see how they handle communications, or even crisis management, for that matter, life becomes easier. Just make sure to take notes!

You've been noted as the youngest artist to sign with labels like Anjunadeep, Purified Records and Colorize. And now, your debut at Armada Music is another milestone for you. How did these opportunities come about?

It was and still is a big honour. I mean, the labels we're talking about here are the ones I’ve always looked up to. It all happened really spontaneously — but long story short, it came down to a lot of patience, early beginnings, hard work, and, to be honest, a bit of luck too. I’m still very much at the beginning and always strive to learn and grow every day. Aside from being major platforms, the biggest opportunity these labels give me is the space to grow and receive feedback.

Can you walk us through your creative process when producing a new track in general?

It really depends, but nine times out of ten, I start with chords or drones/atmosphere. Hearing the reverb resonances or tones I didn’t think of from them inspires me to write more melodies. Additionally, I’ve also started to ‘produce outside’ — I just go to coffee shops or restaurants and produce there, or on beaches, or just by sitting on some random patch of grass near the coast.

Let’s talk about 'Another Light' EP. How would you describe the opening track 'Pull Me'?

It’s a very emotional one, written during a really difficult period in my later life. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better vocalist to work with on that track — none other than Belle Doron. She’s iconic, and her duo CUT_ inspired me a lot during my high school years! I sent it to her and she was quickly hooked, sent something back really soon. I love how music connects artists who’ve never even seen each other before.

What kind of emotions or thoughts does 'Galata' carry for you inwardly?

Inspiration on 'Galata', as the name suggests, was taken from the Galata Tower, built in the 14th century in Istanbul by the Byzantine Empire. This tower has withstood history, seen sieges, and still remains to this day. It’s as if the district itself takes me back in time, I love it. History and culture are truly fascinating.

What does ‘Another Light’, the title track that closes the EP, represent for you as CEAUS?

Just like 'Pull Me', 'Another Light' is also really special and holds a deep emotional connection for me. The only difference is that it was written during a more ‘happy’ era, hence the uplifting tone, haha! I met Jan online through a mutual producer friend. His vocals enhanced the track massively, truly the perfect fit. The man has incredible vocal work and is so talented. We also have a few more upcoming tracks we’re working on together.

Working in cafés, surrounded by people, played a key role in your creative process for this project. How does that compare to the experience of working alone in a studio?

It’s more fun, first of all, it allows you to socialise, and I don’t like being stuck in a four-wall room for hours. It’s refreshing, and watching people and soaking in the outside atmosphere inspires you way more than an analogue desk ever could, haha! Sound isn’t an issue if you have a good pair of monitor headphones.

As a live act and DJ, how do you translate your studio productions to a live setting? What challenges and rewards come with live performances

Challenges are very common, it’s hard and tiring, and it takes a mental toll too. But seeing people vibing with you from all kinds of different cultures or social circles is just amazing. The booking business isn’t easy and can be really exhausting, but it’s worth the hassle, and I can’t wait to start touring again.

Your music has received support from platforms like SiriusXM, BBC Radio and Cercle. How does audience reception and feedback influence your future projects?

It was a big surprise, even big labels don’t secure or guarantee that kind of support, but it happened, and that’s all that matters. I was always fascinated by tracks that got support from those three brands. I love it. It’s a dream come true and definitely motivates me to keep going.

What are your goals for the next phase of your career?

To make music that resonates with both me and the people... I’m in a phase where I’m starting to merge different genres and push boundaries, or at least try to. You can’t always use a four-on-the-floor kick drum and expect to express the message or emotion in a house track. What matters most to me is the emotion, not so much the structure. Big releases are coming, and I’m very keen to see how they’re received.