Pretty Pink: “The music speaks louder than anything else”

“Inhale the future — exhale the past,” says Pretty Pink in her track Happening. This brief line encapsulates the core of her artistry: a deep grounding in the moment and the experience of presence as a form of euphoria.

Pretty Pink (Anne Karolczak) — a German DJ, producer, and label founder — is known for her emotive blend of melodic house, deep house, and progressive sounds. Through her label Deep Woods, she’s built a distinct sonic world — one that’s introspective yet built around the experience of togetherness. With each release, she invites listeners into a space where subtlety, depth, and melodic storytelling take center stage.

For FIZZY MAG, Anne spoke exclusively about the emotional core of her music, how nature and surroundings shape her creative process, and the way she crafts immersive, deeply present sound experiences.

Rooted in Nature

“My journey into music was quite organic. Initially, I was involved in creative endeavors like designing flyers for local clubs. This immersion in the music scene gradually led me to experiment with DJing. There wasn't a single defining moment; rather, it was a series of experiences that made me realize that music was my true calling.

Growing up in the Harz mountains of Germany, I was always surrounded by nature, which also deeply influenced my emotional connection to music. Nature has always been a profound source of inspiration for me. The tranquility and beauty of the landscapes often translate into the melodies and atmospheres I create in my tracks. For instance, the serene environment of my hometown has influenced the deep, melodic elements in my productions.”

A Shift in Sound

“Over the past decade, the electronic music scene has become more inclusive, but challenges remain. In the early days, I often felt the need to prove myself in a predominantly male industry. However, with persistence and passion, I've carved out my own space. The increasing visibility of female DJs has fostered a supportive community, and I'm proud to be part of this positive change. With promoters, there’s still room for more diversity sometimes, but things are moving in the right direction. In the end, the music speaks louder than anything else.”

Shaping the Vibe

“The initial phase of creating a track is the most emotional for me. Capturing that first spark of inspiration and laying down the foundational melody evokes a deep connection. The most challenging part is the final mixing and mastering stages. Ensuring every element sits perfectly in the mix requires meticulous attention to detail and can be quite demanding. I always test my music live before releasing it, so the audience becomes part of the final creative process.

Deciding when a track is complete is intuitive. When I listen back and feel a sense of completeness, without the urge to tweak anything, I know it’s ready. Taking a short break and coming back to it with fresh ears really helps with that final call. After several loops and playing it live a few times, the feedback from the crowd also becomes a key part of the process. That energy and reaction often confirm whether the track is truly finished.”

Moments That Matter

“I aim to convey a sense of longing and euphoria in my music. This blend of emotions reflects the complexities of human experiences, allowing listeners to connect deeply and find their own interpretations within the melodies. 

A set becomes memorable when there's a unique connection with the audience. Moments where I introduce a track that resonates deeply, or when the crowd's energy aligns perfectly with the music, stand out. These subtle interactions, though not always overt, create an unforgettable experience for me. 

Performing in familiar cities brings a sense of comfort and anticipation, knowing the crowd's preferences and the venue's vibe. In contrast, new environments are exhilarating; they challenge me to adapt and read the audience in real-time, fostering spontaneity and growth as an artist.”

Staying Grounded

“Maintaining personal well-being is crucial during tours. I prioritize activities like regular exercise, meditation, and staying connected with loved ones. These practices ground me, providing a sense of normalcy amidst the hectic schedule. 

On non-performance days, I maintain a structured routine. Mornings often start with walking my dog, followed by dedicated time in the studio working on new music or managing my labels, Deep Woods and Deep Woods Vision. Evenings are reserved for exercise, relaxation, whether it's spending time with friends, or exploring new music. This balance helps me recharge and stay creatively inspired.”

For more sonic landscapes and glimpses into her creative world, follow Pretty Pink on Instagram and Spotify.