Having founded The Pulse, Lebanon’s top radio show — broadcast in over 50 countries — and performing on stages across the world, Roy Malakian has carved out an enviable reputation in the world of electronic dance, progressive house and techno music. Yet, there is far more to the Lebanese-Armenian DJ, artist and music producer than meets the eye. We take over the controls to learn more about Malakian’s career, his loyalty to Lebanon and what’s on the horizon.

How did it all start?

It all started back in 2003. I was studying civil and topographic engineering at the Lebanese University while practicing sports, martial arts and taekwondo. Initially, Radio One was just a hobby. However, I quickly became engrossed in the music and wanted to dive deep into the industry. I was passionate and hungry to learn. So, after a year or so, I asked for my own show, which is how The Pulse with Roy Malakian was born.

When I founded The Pulse, it was all about progressive house, techno and tribal music. I still remember the day I sent an email to Paul Oakenfold to be a guest on the show. Much to my surprise and excitement, his manager replied and said that Paul could be a regular. Things just evolved from there; the next thing I knew, Tiësto was on The Pulse. Every week, I had a big name from the world of music.

I began producing music in 2008 and released my first track, “Solitary Soldier,” the following year. The tunes just kept coming. In 2012, I wrote and produced “Vital Signs” with Chris Jones and Eller Van Buuren, Armin Van Buuren’s brother. It was a big hit. Hearing it everywhere was amazing, but I asked myself: “What’s next?”

Of course, I did some cool remixes, like “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey and the legendary anthem “Mr. Brightside.”

Basically, music changed my whole life; it brought me peace.

In your opinion, what makes a good DJ?

I think it is so important to have your own identity. I never wanted to sound like anyone else. If you want to succeed in this business, you need to work hard on yourself. Do not copy or compare yourself to others. Be guided by your soul, follow your heart, follow your sounds. Stay true to what you like not what you think people want to hear. Above all else, don’t be scared to be creative.

What’s your philosophy in life?

Never give up, especially when things aren’t going your way. Don’t say: “Why me?” Just keep going. I also believe that you need to make mistakes to learn and grow. Trying and failing is part of the process.

Why did you decide to remix the Feyrouz classic “Li Beirut” in 2021?

To be honest, I don’t know why I produced “Li Beirut.” Being Lebanese, I felt I had to do something related to my country. It was after the Beirut explosion, although I couldn’t do it in 2020 and made it in 2021. I believe everything was meant to be, including those who were part of the project. Manel Mallat, an extremely talented singer and songwriter, performed the vocals.

Ultimately, your country is your everything; Lebanon is my everything, and that’s why I did this project.

What keeps you in Lebanon?

Lebanon keeps me here. You don’t have to translate Lebanon into words. Being Lebanese is so special and so different. Even when we go abroad to work, we always come back.

What is something not many people know about you?

Well, I was a taekwondo champion and competed in the national team. I have a black belt. Also, I like to give back and pay it forward, whether that’s through supporting charities or helping people in need. To me, giving is loving.

How do you like to relax when you’re not in the studio?

I have a couple of close friends who I call family. I love spending time with my parents. They are my inspiration. Working out is also something I enjoy. I cycle, and I’m a big fan of CrossFit. Also, you’ll find me doing extreme sports like paragliding, bungee jumping and so forth. I guess you could say I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie.

What’s next for Roy Malakian?

I am planning something really big related to music, which I was going to do two months ago. However, as you know, we’re going through a dark period in Lebanon, and now is not the right time. I need to make sure everyone is fine; I need to see and feel that my country is really fine because this will be a boost. While I could do the project abroad, it was made for this country. I am determined to make it happen in Beirut, so watch this space.

If you enjoyed reading this, check out our interview with Lebanese pianist and composer Aleph.