Berlin Mixtapes 074 - Ralf Kollmann

For episode 074 of the Berlin Mixtapes series, we’re delighted to welcome one of the true pioneers of Berlin’s electronic music movement — Ralf Kollmann. As the founder of Mobilee Records alongside Anja Schneider, Ralf has spent nearly two decades helping shape the sound and culture of underground house and techno, building one of Berlin’s most respected and internationally recognised labels in the process.

Known for his deep roots within the city’s club culture and his forward-thinking approach to artist development, Ralf has played an instrumental role in launching and supporting some of electronic music’s most exciting talent while continuing to push the Mobilee sound across dancefloors worldwide. Beyond the label, his work as a DJ, curator and industry figure has made him a key voice within the global electronic music community.

This special episode arrives just in time for this year’s Brighton Music Conference, where Ralf will not only be taking part in a panel discussion but also stepping behind the decks for the opening party. Ahead of his appearance in Brighton, we caught up with him to discuss the evolution of Mobilee, the changing landscape of electronic music, Berlin’s enduring influence, and what continues to inspire him after all these years.

Alongside the interview, Ralf delivers an exclusive mix for Berlin-Brighton, a journey through the sounds and styles that continue to define his musical world and the ethos of Mobilee Records, which ties in with celebrating 20 years of the label. Let's go!

Hi Ralf, great to speak with you. How are you and what’s been keeping you busy this week? Preparing for the Brighton Music Conference and sourcing new music for Mobilee after a 6 month break to figure out a new direction and focus for the company.

I’ve been a fan of Mobilee Records since the early days, so this is a bit of a dream interview for me. Looking back over more than two decades, how do you feel the label has evolved—both musically and philosophically?

We started in 2005 and 20 years is quite a journey with ups and downs, different structures and many people and artists involved who also shape the vibe of a label brand. Things are brought back to the essentials and as usual we are adapting to a chaotic market – the independent music industry. But the need for this constant change keeps us vital and our daily work exciting. Musically we are all over the place but rooted in underground dance music.

Are there any particular releases, artists, or moments that really defined Mobilee for you where you felt, “this is what we are”?

So many artists helped creating the Mobilee sound signature. I think the early years had the biggest impact with Anja Schneider the co-founder of the label, Sebo K, Pan-Pot and others. Later on Rodriguez Jr. mainly defined the sound colour of mobilee with his extensive output and the most successful releases to date.

Mobilee has always had a distinct sound without being boxed in. How do you personally decide what fits the label today?

It's still a gut feeling! Based on 35 years of dancefloor and DJ experience.

What can you share about what’s coming next for the label, any upcoming releases or artists we should have on our radar?

We just signed new music from M.E.M.O, SIS and a few other new talents. At the same time we put some effort in re-activating some classics and hidden gems from the mobile catalog. We are keeping it slow. Less output with focus on a high quality production chain and individual smart campaigns. All our releases get a Dolby Atmos polishing as well by our partner studio Immersive Lab.

Ralf playing at HÖR Berlin

Berlin has always been central to Mobilee’s identity. How has the city’s scene changed over the years and does it still influence the label in the same way?

The city has changed completely in the past 20 years. Clubs are under big pressure. We have seen closures of iconic venues. There are other European cities keeping up with their own club culture and identity on a high level. Less party tourism, etc.

But the diversity of electronic communities and secret spots where people come together and dance in free spirit and explore new music is still huge. And once you are inside the freedom they celebrate, it is incomparable to any other city in the world, I think.

You’ve just compiled Berlin Mixtapes Episode 074, what was your mindset going into that mix, and what story were you trying to tell with it?

Since we are celebrating 20 years of Mobilee I tried to put some of the highlights from the past and the current output together. Warm up and home listening compatible.

20 Years of Mobilee - Part One and Two out now

Buy 20 years of Mobilee here >

After all these years in the industry, what still excites you and what, if anything, concerns you about where electronic music is heading?

Every time I thought we found the right formula, perfect set up and workflows things changed again completely and we had to adapt. This is an ongoing process and will probably never stop. This keeps it exciting. Things are getting more and more complex in terms of rights management, new technologies, social media, listening behaviour and the endless flooding of all channels with mediocrity.

This week you are also joining us at the Brighton Music Conference (BMC) where you’re also speaking on a panel. What topics are you most excited to dig into this year?

Really looking forward to coming back to BMC. Last time was 2017 and I loved it. I am going to join a panel and workshop about Dolby Atmos on Thursday afternoon. I am speaking about my experiences with immersive audio, their creative potential and future opportunities.

Conferences like this bring together artists, labels, and industry heads—what conversations do you think the electronic music world needs to be having right now?

Separate the amateurs from the pros. It’s a tough cookie, but needs an honest discussion.

Get your Brighton Music Conference Pass here >

From your perspective, what are the biggest shifts happening in the industry in 2026?

Independent Culture is under pressure. We need to stay strong and find smart solutions to survive in the current environment and the turbulences ahead. Investment funds and majors are trying to dominate again by just throwing money at everything and taking away control.

Outside of your own set and panel, what are you most looking forward to at Brighton Music Conference?

People, Music, Beach, Sunshine, good talks.

Thanks for spending some time with us, is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

If you are in Berlin on July 11 come and join our annual Mobilee open air at Else Club. Its gonna be fun with Rodriguez Jr., Tim Engelhardt, Jane Ryse, M.E.M.O. and some more! Tickets here >

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