Ian Asher’s rise has been fast, but not accidental. What started as a remix that caught fire online quickly translated into something more tangible: packed festival stages, constant touring, and a growing global audience that already knows every drop before it hits. There is a directness to the way he approaches music, instinct over calculation, energy over formula. As his latest release Desire continues to build momentum, Asher reflects on the moment everything shifted, life on the road, and the creative instinct that keeps it all moving.
Talent Ian Asher @ianasher
Photographer Steve Limones @stevelimonesphotography
Stylist Ambika “B” Sanjana @styledbyambika
Grooming Nadia Hoecklin @nadiahoecklin
Photo assist Nick Ahmet @nick_ahmet
Production + Location @bellomediagroup x @maisonpriveepr_la
Your remix of “Makeba” basically took over the internet. What was your first reaction when you realized the track was going viral everywhere?
When people started making their own videos with the Makeba sound, I knew it was going to be a big moment. It felt surreal. That was a turning point for me. Right after it took off, I started touring heavily, and since then I’ve been on the road almost every weekend. It all happened very fast.
You went from viral DJ to playing major festivals around the world pretty quickly. What has been the most surreal moment of this journey so far?
Playing Storm Festival in Guangzhou in front of over 30,000 people stands out. I didn’t even know people there knew my music. Moments like that hit differently. I’ve played hundreds of shows across different cities, and each one still feels special.
Your new track “Desire” carries a strong festival energy. What was the mindset going into it?
Gryffin’s remix of “Desire” was one of those tracks I listened to when I was younger, imagining being part of this world. That connection, combined with how unique Olly Alexander’s vocals are, made working on it exciting. I didn’t go in with a fixed plan. I just followed what felt right in the moment.
When you’re preparing for a big show, what does your pre-set ritual look like?
I’ll build a playlist with a couple hundred songs, know how I want to start and end, and everything in between happens in the moment. It’s really about getting into the right headspace. The adrenaline when you step on stage is hard to compare to anything else.
You’ve already collaborated with a range of artists. Who would be at the top of your list next?
Calvin Harris. I grew up listening to his music, so many records that really shaped what I do. Even just being in the studio with him and understanding how he approaches things would mean a lot.
Social media played a big role in your rise. How do you stay creative and authentic in that space?
It always comes back to the music. I don’t really build a persona. Most of what I share is what I’m working on in real time. If I’m not genuinely excited about something, I don’t post it.
We photographed you for BELLO with a strong fashion angle. How would you describe your personal style?
For me it’s all connected. The music, the energy, how I show up. I don’t overthink it. I just go with what feels right and what feels like me.
When you’re not touring or producing, what does a day off look like?
It still usually involves music. I’ve been into it since I was a kid. But it’s more about discovering new sounds, going through playlists, and just listening without pressure.
What’s one song you never get tired of playing in your sets?
Any version of Lana Del Rey’s “Summertime Sadness.” That always works.
