Get to Know Rising Drum & Bass Artist Rova

2 days ago 13

Rova dropped off a mix showcasing his high-octane, dynamic drum and bass sound and chatted about his journey as a producer and his recent EP, UNDISPUTED.

New Zealand has consistently produced some of drum and bass’ most respected artists, and one of the latest names to emerge in recent years is 23-year-old producer Rova. He began making music in 2019 before exploding onto the world stage in 2024, when his breakout anthem “Eyes On Me” became one of the year’s defining DnB records.

It seemed like every major DJ had that track in their sets, catapulting Rova into the spotlight as one of the genre’s most promising newcomers. Since then, he’s ridden the waves of that massive ascension with a string of highly energetic releases and performances that capture the relentless, fiery energy of his music that fans crave and keep the dancefloor moving from the first drop to the last.

Rova kicked off this year with a sold-out run of homecoming shows across New Zealand in April, then kept the momentum rolling with the release of his debut EP, UNDISPUTED, in June. Now, he’s finishing off summer with appearances on the other side of the world, including a b2b alongside neighboring Australian producer Luude at Let It Roll, before supporting WORSHIP at their London debut.

We caught up with Rova to talk about how he got into drum and bass and his whirlwind rise, his sonic style and creative process, and what’s next for him. Give his mix a spin and be sure to follow him on social media to keep up with one of the scene’s brightest new talents.

Stream EDMID Guest Mix 502 || Rova on SoundCloud:

How did you first get into drum and bass and music production, and what were your biggest musical influences early on?

I first got into drum and bass through my mate who showed me a track in his car. I remember hearing it for the first time and was like, ‘woah what is this?’ That really inspired me to start listening to the genre and then go on to produce it.

My biggest musical influence was Skrillex; I listened to all of his stuff before I even started making music. He really inspired me because he was making something new, something no one had ever heard before.

A few months ago, you played a four-date sold-out show in your home country, New Zealand. There’s always been a strong drum and bass culture there. How did your local scene shape you, and how was this most recent home tour?

I remember when drum and bass first hit my friend group, everyone would DJ at parties for fun and I’d jump in to try it. I never thought I could turn it into a career back then, but here we are. Many of my friends also produced drum and bass, so it was good to get feedback and share ideas with each other.

The New Zealand tour was hectic; it’s always good to play in your home country. NZ crowds always bring the energy, and I can’t wait to do it again.

You only started making music in 2019, but you are currently one of the fastest-rising artists in the drum and bass scene. What has that journey been like for you?

I appreciate that; the journey has been amazing. It’s crazy to think I just started off making beats in my room, and it got me to where I am now. All the love over the years for the music and live performances has been awesome; I am forever grateful.

For people discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music and DJ sets?

I’d describe my music and sets as heavy, raw, and most importantly energetic. I want everyone listening, whether that be to my music or my sets, to be energized and ready to go hard.

Last month, you released the UNDISPUTED EP. How did this EP come together?

I made this EP from ideas I really liked. I wasn’t trying to chase trends or move to what’s hot right now. I experimented with new sounds and techniques and tried to incorporate a lot of trap elements into it.

What was your inspiration behind having a boxing theme for UNDISPUTED? How does it reflect both your musical vision and where you’re at in your career?

As I said before, my music is raw and energetic, and I feel like boxing is one of the sports that can really relate to that, and it would really match my music visually.

What does the rest of 2026 look like for you, and what are you most excited for?

Just excited to get more music out for everyone, I got a lot to show.

Lastly, can you tell us about the mix you made for us today?

This mix has the energy, so be prepared!