Entering electronic dance music is bold, but for Vikram Singh Barn—better known as Vikkstar—it’s a natural progression. Known globally as a Sidemen member, Vik has captivated millions with his gaming and content creation skills. Now, he steps into the music industry with “Where Do I Go,” a track made with Nicky Romero, Alpharock, and singer-songwriter Oaks. Released for the party season, this club-ready track merges nostalgia with fresh energy, promising dance floor domination.
Reflecting on his journey from gaming to music, Vik shared both the excitement and challenges. “I’m still new to this, and I’m honest about that,” he admitted. “Working with Nicky, I saw how meticulous he was. I learned about the plugins and tools he uses—some he even created himself. What I’ve learned is that you need a clear vision to bring everything together.” This journey has been one of growth, and Vik embraces learning from those more experienced. “I’m not embarrassed or ashamed to say that I’m having help in doing this,” Vikkstar added. “I appreciate that I’m in a privileged position. I’ve loved EDM and progressive house for a decade, and to be able to give back to the space and bring a new audience in—I find it a really exciting opportunity.”
Learning from the Masters
Collaborating with industry legends like Nicky Romero and Alan Walker has been a transformative experience for Vik. Reflecting on performing alongside these artists, he said, “My first DJ show was at Ministry of Sound in London in 2022, playing to a crowd of a thousand people. Fast-forward a few months, and I was on stage with Alan Walker at Tomorrowland.” For Vikkstar, who spent years attending Tomorrowland as a fan, stepping onto the main stage felt surreal. “It was unbelievable—jaw-dropping, really. Having spent over four years in that crowd looking at the main stage, to then be standing there with the lights and energy was incredible. I’m super grateful to Alan Walker for that chance.”
Vik values Alan Walker and Nicky Romero as mentors who guide him in music. “They’ve been incredibly supportive, and I’m grateful for their guidance,” he said. “It’s all about passion, and I’m lucky to have mentors who share that with me.” Nicky Romero echoed this sentiment: “Working with Vikkstar on this track has been amazing. We created Where Do I Go with the hope it becomes a song that brings people together—right in time for the holiday and party season!”
From Streaming to Stage
Though new to DJing, Vik’s online career prepared him to connect with audiences uniquely. With over 21 million subscribers on Sidemen’s channel and an additional 11 million on his own platforms, he’s built a career engaging with fans. But DJing brings fresh excitement. “DJing is another medium of expressing yourself creatively,” he shared. “I’ve been doing that for years through video, but doing it live through music is a whole new experience. The energy is electric—it’s exciting, energizing, and honestly a bit scary, because I’m very new to this.”
For Vikkstar, DJing offers a chance to connect with thousands of fans in an immediate way. “In the past, with meet-and-greets, you’re limited. The most you can meet is maybe 150 people in an hour,” he explained. “But on stage, you’re connecting with the whole crowd at once. You’re reading the room, merging what I want my sound to be with what they’re enjoying. It’s a new skill, and I’m really enjoying learning it.”
Crafting the Sound of “Where Do I Go”
“Where Do I Go” brings a nostalgic vibe, sampling Yazoo’s iconic “Don’t Go” to capture a classic UK feel. “I wanted to bring that nostalgic and classic UK vibe to this track,” Vik shared. The sample adds a familiar beat, blending with modern electronic elements. “The Yazoo sample is like the heart of the song. It’s what everything else revolves around, bringing this energy that’s nostalgic but fresh.”
Vik’s love for progressive house guides him, helping him create music that feels authentic. “I love progressive house. It gives me that feeling of being back in 2013, listening to melodic music you can sing and dance to,” he said. “I’m fortunate to have my own audience from other endeavors, so I don’t feel pressured to follow trends. Good music is almost timeless, and I want to share the sound I love with my fans.”
Staying True to His Fans and Craft
With millions of fans who know him through gaming, Vik’s move into music shows his dedication to following his passions. “I want to release music that makes people feel good,” he explained. “My fans know me for gaming, but music has always been something I wanted to dive into. This track is just the start, and I’m amazed by the support I’ve received as I try something new.”
Looking forward, Vikkstar remains open to wherever his music journey takes him, but wants everything to happen naturally. “One of the most fun parts of my career is I never really know what’s next,” he said. “Especially with music, I want everything to follow a natural path. I’m making music I love and enjoy, and I’m open to performing anywhere that feels right.” Vik’s dedication to organic growth in music mirrors his gaming career, where he built a loyal following by staying true to himself.
With its infectious beats, euphoric drops, and nostalgic touch, “Where Do I Go” is set to dominate dance floors. For Vikkstar, it’s just the beginning of an exciting new adventure. “It’s a privilege to give back to a space that I love,” he said, “and I’m ready to take my fans along for the ride.”
Stream Where Do I Go and follow Vikkstagram on social media.
Read more news, exclusive interviews, and updates from Angelo De Guzman at edmnomad.
