Contributing WriterGerman-born with Nepalese roots, Merissa Mahilaa is an emerging underground force shaping a sleek, groove-led sound that veers between house and tech with real personality. She always brings deep textures, rolling energy and sharp dancefloor instincts that have seen her play across Europe and drop tunes on SK Recordings and Agape Muzik. Music Is For Lovers sat down with her today to following the release of her new single on Motel Calypso, ‘Slushy’
1. Hi Merissa, thanks for chatting with us today. How has your 2026 started?
2026 has started in a very focused and creative way for me. After a busy end to last year, I was able to spend more time in the studio again. That balance felt really good and allowed me to develop new ideas. It’s been a strong and motivating start, setting the tone for what’s ahead.
2. Your new single ‘Slushy’ is set to release on Motel Calypso on January 30th. Can you tell us about the track?
‘Slushy’ is a very playful record with a lot of attitude. The vocals carry a strong, confident, slightly cheeky energy that immediately sets the tone. We built the track around driving drums, detailed grooves, and expressive synth textures that keep it moving. It’s made for moments when the energy in the room starts to rise, and the dancefloor begins to open up.
3. You worked with J. Wheel on this release. Could you tell us about your relationship with the Spanish producer and how this collaboration came about?
J.Wheel and I connected through Instagram. He regularly sent me promos that I really enjoyedplaying in my sets, which naturally led to an ongoing exchange. At the end of 2025, we released our first collab together on the Spanish label ‘Techaway’. The creative process is very intuitive, so continuing work together just felt right.
4. Before this release, you’ve also dropped music on SK Recordings, Techaway, and Agape. How has it been to work across so many great labels? Do you find your musical style and sound vary across your productions, or are you hyper-focused on one genre?
Working with different labels has been a really positive experience, and of course, each one has its own identity. In the beginning, I was still shaping and refining my sound. Over time, my signature has become much clearer – even though a lot of that music is still unreleased. With the upcoming months, that will start to change. Starting the year with the Motel Calypso release, I’ve got a four-track EP coming on another label in March, followed by a release lined up for April – giving people a much clearer picture of my sound.
5. You’re German-born and raised, a place known for its electronic music scene. Can you tell us about your favourite spots that you think have shaped the artist you’ve become and influenced your sound?
Being born and raised in Germany, my Nepalese roots still play an important role in how I connect to rhythm and atmosphere. At the same time, Mannheim – the city I live in – has played a major role in shaping me. It’s home to Time Warp, one of the most influential electronic music festivals, which naturally defines the city’s deep connection to electronic music and club culture. Venues like Hafen49 and the club das Zimmer were an important part of my journey. Being close to that taught me a lot about consistency, musical discipline, and respect for the dancefloor. Frankfurt is another important city for me; its raw energy and intense club scene refined the way I read a room.
6. You’ve played at some big clubs and even had a residency with Electric Grooves. What would be the dream venue to play at?
One of my highlights so far was playing at Nowhere by Paco Osuna during ADE. That experience left a strong impression on me, and it’s definitely an event I’d love to return to. Looking ahead, Music On is another dream. I’m drawn to places where groove, energy, and musical freedom come together. At the same time, there are countless inspiring clubs, events, and cities I’d love to experience – discovering new spaces is a big part of what keeps this journey exciting for me.
7. Can you list for us some of your all-time favourite songs or albums that made you want to start making music?
Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I was constantly drawn to sound across many genres – long before electronic music became my main focus. There was no single track or album that led me to DJing. It felt more like following something that had always been within me.
8. It’s been great chatting with you today. What are your goals for the rest of 2026?
Last year was the strongest year of my journey so far, with international shows, growing attention, and important releases along the way. For the rest of 2026, my goal is to build on that momentum – continuing to release strong music while expanding my presence internationally. I want this next phase to feel like growth on every level: musically, creatively, and through deeper connection on dancefloors across different cities.
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