Irada Mikayilova
From the vibrant streets of Baku to the global electronic stage, Irada Mikayilova is a name that embodies reinvention, resilience, and cultural fusion. A music producer, songwriter, and DJ, she has returned to the scene with a renewed passion, blending her Azerbaijani heritage with the modern sounds of electronic music. Her latest release, a reinterpretation of the iconic folk song Sarı Gəlin, marks a powerful comeback — one that’s both deeply personal and universally resonant.
A Journey Beyond Borders
Irada’s love affair with music began long before her career as a DJ and producer. As a songwriter, she penned lyrics and melodies for some of Azerbaijan’s most celebrated pop and rock artists, with her work even winning recognition on international stages such as Sanremo Junior in Italy, where she proudly earned third place alongside Jamal Gasimov.
But her artistic path was never a straight line. A decade ago, she stepped into the DJ booth and found instant success in electronic music — yet chose to pause her career to focus on her family and children. Now, years later, Irada returns not just as an artist, but as a creative force transformed by life’s experiences.
Reimagining Sarı Gəlin
Her comeback is marked by Sarı Gəlin, one of the most beloved folk songs in Azerbaijani culture. For Irada, reimagining this timeless melody within the afro house framework was both an honor and a challenge.
“I wanted to explore how this timeless piece could live in today’s electronic soundscape… to breathe new life into something sacred, while keeping its essence intact,” she explains.
Working alongside the powerful vocalist Ulviyya Rahimova, Irada crafted a version that is both faithful to tradition and daringly new. It’s a respectful transformation, weaving Azerbaijani folk music and mugham with the organic textures of afro house and the hypnotic flow of techno. The result is a sound that transcends borders — a dialogue between past and present, East and West.
Collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia
Irada’s creative rebirth has also been shaped by her collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia, one of the world’s leading labels in organic and ethnic deep house.
“Working with Cafe De Anatolia has been very special for me — they gave me a chance to share my sound with the world and supported my vision. It’s more than just a label; it feels like a creative family,” she says.
Through this partnership, her music has reached new audiences across continents, resonating with listeners who crave authenticity and emotional depth on the dancefloor.
Looking Ahead
Irada describes her style as a fusion of roots and innovation — a bridge that connects Azerbaijan’s musical legacy with the ever-evolving world of electronic music. By bringing ancient instruments and emotional melodies into conversation with futuristic rhythms, she creates something that is both timeless and forward-looking.
And this is only the beginning. With more projects in the works, Irada hints at exploring “deeper emotions and new rhythms” in her upcoming releases — all while continuing her journey with Cafe De Anatolia.
A Voice for the Future
For Technohouse CDA, Irada Mikayilova’s story is more than just an artist comeback. It’s a reminder that electronic music is not just about beats and drops — it’s about stories, identities, and connections across generations. By honoring her roots while embracing innovation, Irada shows us that music can be both personal and universal, local and global, traditional and futuristic.
Her journey is proof that evolution never ends — and that true artistry lies in embracing every chapter of life.
Sarı Gelin by Irada Mikaylova/ 21 August 2025 / released via Cafe De Anatolia