Peggy Gou, the globally celebrated DJ, and producer, has just released her debut album, “I Hear You“. This marks a significant milestone in Gou’s career, which saw a meteoric rise last year with the worldwide hit “(It Goes Like) Nanana”.

Up until that point, Gou was well-known in the dance-music scene, admired for her ultra-cool persona and connections with influential figures like Four Tet, and her performances at elite European clubs. Despite her success within the dance music elite, breaking into the mainstream seemed unlikely for Gou. Her music, characterized by its sparse, textured sound and a deep sense of dance history, didn’t seem destined for global acclaim. That changed dramatically with “(It Goes Like) Nanana”.

From Niche DJ to Global Hitmaker

“(It Goes Like) Nanana” defied expectations with its unabashedly catchy and infectious nature. Over a buoyant ’90s house beat, Gou sings about an indescribable feeling that goes “na na na,” creating a chorus that’s irresistibly singalong. The track’s success was propelled by a viral TikTok of Gou performing it at a festival in Morocco, leading to chart-topping positions across Europe and the U.S. dance charts. This breakout hit demonstrated Gou’s ability to create music that resonates far beyond the dance floor.

A Journey from South Korea to Global Stardom

Born in South Korea and educated in London, Gou’s journey to stardom began with a love for clubbing as a teenager. After graduating from the London College of Fashion, she moved to Berlin and taught herself to DJ. Over the past decade, Gou has built an impressive career, becoming a trailblazer in a predominantly male-dominated space. However, “(It Goes Like) Nanana” marked a turning point, propelling her into mainstream recognition and revealing a new dimension to her music.

“I Hear You” – A Pop-Infused Dance Album

“I Hear You”, Gou’s first studio album, diverges from the thoughtful, patient tracks of her earlier EPs. Instead, it embraces a more energetic, pop-oriented approach. The album draws inspiration from ’90s dance music, yet it feels fresh and contemporary, packed with short, punchy tracks and abundant hooks. Gou’s precise, conversational vocal style, in both English and Korean, adds a unique contrast to the album’s big, emotive hooks.

Star-Studded Collaborations and Diverse Sounds

“I Hear You” doesn’t follow the typical paths for dance producer albums. It’s neither a seamless nightclub odyssey nor a showcase of guest vocalists, though there are notable appearances. The single “I Believe In Love Again” features Lenny Kravitz, who Gou met at a Thanksgiving dinner in Miami. The collaboration marks a high point for Kravitz, reminiscent of his memorable contributions to pop culture. Puerto Rican rapper Villano Antillano also features on the track “All That”, adding a different flavor to the album’s eclectic mix.

Unifying Elements and Standout Tracks

The album’s ten tracks explore various sonic ideas while maintaining cohesion through Gou’s distinct voice and songcraft. Tracks like “Purple Horizons” and “I Go” evoke ’90s dance-pop with classic breakbeats and shimmering keyboards, while “Back To One” transforms mundane moments into glamorous experiences. The hooks throughout the album are subtle yet captivating, drawing listeners in rather than overwhelming them.

One of the standout tracks and latest single, “Lobster Telephone”, combines Latin-freestyle electro-boogie with Gou’s soft Korean vocals, creating a uniquely addictive sound. The track’s joyful, understated vibe encapsulates the album’s playful spirit.

Peggy Gou’s Future in Music

With “I Hear You”, Peggy Gou solidifies her position as one of the world’s leading dance DJs. The album, filled with summer anthems and endorphin-rush moments, eschews grand artistic statements in favor of pure, unadulterated fun. Given the success of “(It Goes Like) Nanana” it’s clear that Gou has a knack for creating hits, and her debut album suggests there are plenty more to come!

Check it out below!