Features » Introducing... » Lola Cerise: “If You Don’t Believe In Yourself, No One Will”

Lola Cerise: “If You Don’t Believe In Yourself, No One Will”

With her debut EP on ARTCORE, Lola Cerise brings a fierce, playful, and deeply personal sound shaped by illegal parties, jazz, and techno rebellion.

A resident at Gotec and a rising name on the European circuit, Lola now makes her debut on Indira Paganotto’s ARTCORE label with I Don’t Speak German, a release that captures her genre-blending, boundary-pushing spirit in full force.

We asked her to introduce herself.

Who are you?

I’m Lola Cerise — a DJ and producer originally from the south of France. I grew up immersed in rave culture, and that early exposure to raw, rebellious energy continues to shape everything I do. My music is emotional, a little chaotic, and full of groove.

Where are you from?

I’m from a small town in the south of France. The rave scene there was heavily influenced by the old Spiral Tribe energy — illegal parties in the woods, vinyl-only sets, DIY sound systems. It really shaped the way I approach music today.

What do you sound like?

I usually say “fast techno,” but honestly, it’s a big mix. There’s hard techno, psy-trance, groove, a bit of trance, and even jazz influences in the structure. It’s intense, but with a sense of humour. My tracks can shift from trippy to emotional to totally absurd — like a weird dream you dance through.

Why should we follow what you’re doing?

Because I’m not chasing trends. I just make music that feels honest and fun — sometimes ridiculous, sometimes deep, but always personal. If you’re into fast, raw techno with character and emotion, I might be your girl.

Which of your tracks sums you up? Why?

Probably Is That What You Wanted Mummy? — it’s intense, weird, vulnerable, and doesn’t try to please anyone. It wasn’t made to be a “banger,” just a true reflection of something inside. The fact that it got signed still feels surreal.

What have you got coming out in the near future?

My debut EP I Don’t Speak German just dropped on ARTCORE. It’s a collection of tracks made over the past three years — like a time capsule of my evolution. I’m also working on a collaborative album for my label, First Date Without Panties, due around September. It features tracks made with artists I love. We just debuted our track with Parfait this weekend and it was a hit. I’m super excited for what’s next.

What or who is your biggest influence and why?

Emotionally, artists like Gesaffelstein and Dusty Kid had a big impact — they create music with a strong identity. Jazz also inspires me for its fluid, structure-breaking approach. But my biggest influence is probably the people I meet in clubs, raves, and life. Real human stories.

How did you get into DJing/producing to begin with?

I always wanted to be a DJ, but I really started during COVID while living in Australia. I played my first set at a bush doof and it felt like a revelation. Producing followed a month after I bought my first controller — a way to dive deeper into my sound and express what I couldn’t say with words.

What are three things on your studio shopping list?

A better soundcard, a modular synth I probably won’t know how to use properly, and maybe… a disco ball. Not essential, but great for the vibe.

Who or what have you sacrificed for your art?

Romantic relationships, without a doubt. I’m a passionate person, and when I fall in love, it can take up the space that music usually fills. I’ve learned to protect that space — right now, I’m fully committed to the music.

What’s been your favourite place to play so far?

Gotec holds a special place in my heart — I’m a resident there, and it always feels like playing for my extended rave family. Phantom in Paris was also magical, especially sharing the booth with Indira (Paganotto) for the first time.

Where can we hear your music?

Everywhere online — Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube. And in real life, mostly in Germany and Central Europe for now, with more places coming soon.

What one song would feature on the soundtrack to your life?

Naturträne by Nina Hagen. It’s wild, unpredictable, full of emotion, chaotic, and unapologetic — pretty much sums me up.

What motivates you?

The memory of all the jobs I had before music — cleaning, hospitality — reminded me daily that I wasn’t doing what I loved. That fire still drives me when things get tough.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself

My first name is really Lola Cerise — and yes, “Cerise” means “cherry” in French. People often think it’s a stage name, but it’s totally real.

Complete this sentence: At heart I’m just a…

…raver who never got over her first illegal party in the woods.

What’s the best bit of advice you’ve received?

“If you don’t believe in yourself, no one will.” It’s simple but powerful. The day I stopped hoping and started knowing I’d make it work, everything shifted.