DMC World sat down with Janika Tenn to discuss her latest release, Going Down, out now on her own label, Tenn Tonik, and how she continues to shape her presence in the House music scene. Inspired by 90s club culture, the track combines driving basslines, jacking drums, strings, and playful vocal touches, drawing on influences from both Italian and UK House to create a sound that feels familiar yet contemporary. This summer, Janika brought her groove-driven style to one of the world’s most iconic dancefloors with a residency at Eden in Ibiza for Todd Terry’s Freeze Project. With a series of releases and performances that highlight her energy and versatility, Janika is building a reputation as both an artist and label owner dedicated to a distinct and forward-thinking House sound.
Can you describe the creative process behind your new track, Going Down?
Going Down started with a groove. I wanted something raw and rolling with that classic jacking house energy. Once I had the drums locked in, everything else came naturally. I found a vocal that felt right for the record, and the bass and sample ideas came together easily to give it that live, clubby feel. It’s a track built for the dance floor but still has that playful, underground edge.
How do 90s club influences manifest in your productions today?
I’ve always been drawn to the raw energy and simplicity of 90s house. That era had a real attitude; it was about groove and feeling rather than perfection. I use vintage drum sounds, vocal FX, and classic sampling styles to capture that same spirit. It’s not about copying the 90s, but bringing that energy and fun to today’s dance floors.
What inspired the combination of Italian and UK House styles in Going Down?
For this track, I was drawn to the heavier, more underground side of both Italian and UK house. It’s got that fat bassline and raw drum energy that gives it a real club feel. There’s a little sample that adds a touch of melody, but it’s mainly about groove, attitude, and that rolling rhythm that keeps the floor moving.
How do you decide which samples or sounds to incorporate into your tracks?
I usually start with a feeling or a phrase that fits the mood I want to create. I dig through old records, sample packs, or even recordings from gigs. Anything that sparks an idea, really. If a sound gives me that instant “yes” reaction, I build around it. It’s instinctive more than technical.
What was the motivation behind launching your own label, Tenn Tonik?
I wanted full creative freedom to release the music I love, on my own terms. Tenn Tonik gives me that space to experiment and to support a sound that’s fun, groovy, and true to what I play out. It’s about keeping that house spirit alive and not overcomplicating things.
How do you curate the sound and identity of Tenn Tonik for both DJs and listeners?
It’s a balance between club functionality and musicality. Every release has to work on the dance floor but also have something that makes it worth listening to outside the club. I want Tenn Tonik records to feel timeless, not disposable. Tracks with personality, groove, and feeling that DJs can rely on and listeners can connect with. Every release will feature vocals in some way, since I love working with singers and think vocals bring that extra layer of emotion and character. The label’s sound is rooted in house, but with that Tenn Tonik attitude: bold, fun, groovy, and always with a touch of soul.
Can you share your experience collaborating with Todd Terry and other artists you’ve worked with?
Working with Todd has been amazing. He’s a legend but also really down to earth and full of creative energy. We vibed straight away, and it’s never about overthinking, just letting the music flow naturally. If I ever need advice on vocals, he’s the first person I turn to. We’ve built a strong creative connection and bounce ideas off each other easily. I’ve also had the chance to work with both established and up-and-coming artists who bring their own energy and ideas. Every collaboration teaches me something new about sound, process, and trusting the moment. It keeps the whole journey exciting.
How has your international touring, including your residency in Ibiza, influenced your music?
Massively. Touring shows you how different crowds react to music, and that always feeds back into how I produce. After over 20 years of DJing, I know how to read a crowd and take people on a journey. My Ibiza residency this summer really pushed that even further; it made me focus more on vocal records and creating those moments people can sing along to. I’m always thinking about how a track breathes in a club space, how it builds tension, and how it hits when it drops.
How do you balance your creative vision with the practical aspects of running a label?
It’s definitely a juggling act, especially after spending the whole summer in Ibiza. When you’re the only one running the label, it’s easy to fall behind on things. I’m hands-on with everything from artwork to mastering decisions, but I try to keep the focus on the music. I set time aside to produce without thinking about deadlines. It’s still my first year running a label, so I’m learning a lot as I go.
Looking ahead, how do you see your sound and label evolving in the coming years?
I want Tenn Tonik to grow into a home for proper house music, easy to listen to but still made for the dance floor. My sound is always evolving, but it’ll keep that mix of classic influences with fresh energy to push the feel-good house vibe forward. Right now, I’m only releasing my own music and collaborations, but in the future, I’d like to start putting out other artists’ records too.
Janika Tenn’s Going Down is out now via Tenn Tonik – Stream & Purchase
