Contributing Writer
RN ISMO is the visionary artist and mind behind ISMOS, a game-changing label and events series. He has played headline sets around the world, topped charts with his music and is one of the head production coaches for R-TRYBE. We caught up with him as he links up with COLOR.LOVE for ‘Accentuate’
Hey Ismail, great to have you with us at Music Is 4 Lovers, how’s life?
Life’s been a whirlwind, in the best way possible. Between running ISMOS, curating events, and diving deep into the creative process with artists I truly believe in, every day feels like a new chapter in the story we’re building. There’s a hunger in the scene right now—people are craving something fresh yet timeless, and that energy is pushing everything forward.
You currently head up ISMOS, a respected label and events series. What are some of the greatest challenges and rewards of running your own label?
ISMOS was born to create a platform where raw, unfiltered club music could thrive. It is where artists can express themselves fully without the fear of compromise.
The biggest challenge is balancing the artistry with the business—ensuring that every release gets the right exposure, the right ears, and ultimately, the right impact. But the reward? That moment when a track we put our heart into absolutely destroys a dance floor, or when an artist tells me ISMOS gave them a breakthrough opportunity. That’s what makes every sleepless night and every risk worth it.
I saw this firsthand with Naughty Girl, which wasn’t just about pushing a record but crafting an experience. The campaign wasn’t traditional—it was immersive, it had attitude, and it told a story. That’s something I want every ISMOS release to carry forward: a feeling, a moment in time.
As a Detroit native, how does the city’s rich dance music heritage inspire your work?
Detroit is in my DNA. The city’s legacy isn’t just about history—it’s about resilience, innovation, and never conforming to expectations. That mentality shapes ISMOS. I grew up on the blueprint laid by the greats, but I also see a new wave of sound bubbling up, and I want ISMOS to be at the forefront of that evolution.
What I love most about Detroit is that it never settles. It’s raw. It’s real. And you either bring something to the table, or you get left behind. That ethos is in every ISMOS release, from NO CONFIES to Accentuate—it’s music that speaks for itself, no gimmicks needed.
This month, you’re linking up with rising talent COLOR.LOVE for the latest single on your imprint; when did you first cross paths, and why did you decide to link up for this record?
I first met Gina (COLOR.LOVE) in Ibiza during the Mixmasters retreats, where we instantly connected and built a close friendship. Our shared passion for music kept us in touch, but it was a seemingly small moment that set everything in motion—one day, she posted a reel on Instagram featuring a vocal line from Accentuate, layered over that unmistakable acid top bassline.
The moment I heard it, I knew this record had something special. It’s more than just a track—it’s a feeling, a groove that effortlessly weaves its way into your consciousness. There’s an emotion in it, a depth of movement that doesn’t demand attention but commands it. It’s hypnotic, understated yet powerful, the kind of record that doesn’t just play in the background—it consumes the room.
For Gina and me, this collaboration is a full-circle moment—one that feels as natural as it is significant. Accentuate perfectly embodies what ISMOS is all about: underground-rooted, universally resonant, and undeniably alive.
What do you hope listeners take away from the upcoming single, ‘Accentuate’?
I want them to feel it. This isn’t just a track; it’s a mood-setter. It’s something that can be played at peak-time and feel massive, or at an after-hours spot and feel like it’s whispering a secret to the room.
Accentuate is about elevation—letting go of distractions and being completely in the moment. That’s the essence of club culture. If this track can make even one person lose themselves for a few minutes, it’s done its job.
Away from the studio and DJ booth, what are your personal interests and passions?
Beyond the studio and DJ booth, my life is a constant balancing act between my passions and pursuits. I work as a part-time nurse, which might seem unexpected in the world of music, but it keeps me grounded. It gives me a sense of purpose that extends beyond the dance floor.
I also coach tennis, which has been a lifelong passion of mine. The sport teaches discipline, strategy, and mental resilience—qualities that translate seamlessly into music and business. Whether it’s refining a “backhand” or fine-tuning a mix, the mindset is the same: precision, patience, and execution.
On top of that, I teach music production, helping up-and-coming artists develop their sound. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone take an idea and transform it into something tangible—something that moves people. ISMOS is all about creating a platform for raw, unfiltered creativity, and through teaching, I get to help shape the next wave of talent.
Lately, I’ve also been deeply focused on health and discipline—cutting out the noise, refining my focus…I believe that whether it’s music, sports, or personal growth, the details matter.
Who’s your top artist right now and why?
Right now, Brunello is an artist who’s really caught my attention. His track Clowns Corridor is a perfect example of why he’s making waves—it’s dark, hypnotic, and carries this eerie, otherworldly tension that keeps you locked in from start to finish. There’s a certain cinematic depth to his production; every element feels intentional, like it’s leading you somewhere just beyond reach.
What’s exciting about Brunello is that he’s not just following trends—he’s carving out a lane of his own. His rise in the scene feels organic, built on a distinct sound that blends rolling grooves with a raw, almost storytelling-like approach to production. It’s the kind of music that demands to be felt in a dark, intimate club setting, where every layer and texture has space to breathe.
I think we’re only seeing the beginning of what he’s capable of, and if Clowns Corridor is any indication, he’s got a lot more in store. Definitely one to watch.
Where can we expect to see you playing over the next few months?
Over the next few months, I’ll be focusing heavily on INVITE ONLY (US) (RN ISMO & TekNoNo duo), which is going to take center stage. The focus will be to curate something more exclusive—intimate spaces, the right energy, and a crowd that’s truly there for the music.
But before that shift fully takes place, I’ve got a few key dates locked in. First up, I’ll be making my Miami debut on March 28th for Discovery Sessions—the same day that Accentuate drops. It’s the perfect setting to showcase the record, and I’m looking forward to bringing that ISMOS sound to a fresh crowd.
And, of course, Movement Festival is on the horizon. Without saying too much just yet, INVITE ONLY (US) will be around 🙂
Beyond that, Noah and I have been brainstorming some fun ways to bring day parties to Detroit this summer. There’s something about a proper daytime session that just hits differently—outdoor vibes, raw energy, and a looser, more free-flowing atmosphere. We want to tap into that and build something unique for the city in 2025.
RN ISMO: Instagram – Soundcloud – Beatport
