Mousse T.: Meet me at Peti Kupe and I’ll tell you a story

On November 15th, 2025, two of Zagreb’s finest - Discoton and Dobar Disco - unite once again for a special night at Peti Kupe.

The feel-good fusion of house and disco will set the tone for Mousse T.’s long-awaited return to Zagreb. A true legend of the scene, the Grammy-nominated hit-maker behind “Horny” and “Sex Bomb” brings his signature soulful grooves to the dancefloor.

We spoke to the legend that is Mousse T. ahead of his performance.

Hi Mousse T., it’s a pleasure to do this interview! You’ve shared so many great moments with Croatian crowds, from Defected Croatia to now returning to Zagreb for Discoton x Dobar Disco. How does it feel coming back to play in Zagreb again?

Mousse T.: Croatia has a big place in my heart; people are warm, beautiful and care for good music… What more can you ask for?

Dobar Disco is all about celebrating disco and disco-influenced house. You’ve seen house and disco evolve through so many phases. Is there a particular period you still draw the most inspiration from today?

Mousse T.: Well, I kinda used to make fun of my peers when they said that everything is coming back in circles… but it’s actually true! And it’s actually great to be able to relive the good times and add a certain Zeitgeist to it. Obviously, the ’90s are very dear to me because House was exciting and very daring… let’s try to bring that back!

“Horny” and “Sex Bomb” became anthems that defined a moment in dance music - and they still sound fresh decades later. When you listen back now, do you hear the same songs everyone else does, or do you remember the little studio moments behind them?

Mousse T.: I’m blessed and beyond proud to have these beautiful songs under my belt and, depending on the sound system or environment, I actually do listen to them differently every time they come on. Of course, the memories of doing these tracks are still very much alive - for example, the original instrumental of Horny was a leftover dub mix for a Michael Jackson remix I did. Or Tom Jones recording the vocal for Sex Bomb - I turned to my studio partner, gave the thumbs up, and said, “This will be a hit!”

Your productions have always carried a real sense of musicianship - live instruments, groove, and soul. How important is that human touch to you in an era where so much music is digital and loop-based?

Mousse T.: It always starts with a human idea. That said, I’m a big fan of digital tools. In a perfect world it’s a balance between analog and digital. Even working with loops, there’s always a way to make it groovy and organic.

Photo: Jens Koch

You’ve worked with legends like Roy Ayers, Bootsy Collins, and Byron Stingily. Is there a particular collaboration that taught you something new or changed your approach to music?

Mousse T.: Every encounter with a great artist sparks something new and unique in terms of creativity. I need to mention Tom Jones here. Tom being around for so long, having toured with Elvis, having one of the most unique voices on this planet, and still being down to earth and up to speed with today’s music impressed me so much and left such a positive vibe in the often shallow world of entertainment.

WHY do you remix tracks so well? You’re behind some of the long-standing classics of house music - sometimes your remixes even outshine the originals. How do you approach remixing compared to original work?

Mousse T.: Oh, thanks a lot! I really respect a good song and most of the time try to honor it while putting my own twist on it. Most of the time it’s like kindergarten - playing around and coming up with new ways to let that song shine. My recipe? Do a dope, rough beat and let the vocal be the star.

You’ve played everything from Ibiza superclubs to intimate rooms. What do smaller venues like Peti Kupe offer that big stages can’t?

Mousse T.: It’s the energy, man. Being close to the dancers, absorbing their energy, and shooting it right back to them - priceless!

What would you say is the best part of touring, and what can be the downside?

Mousse T.: It’s the best way of getting to know new folks, new cultures, and promoting your music - couldn’t do without it. The downsides are the traveling itself (planes, etc.), messing with the environment, and messing with your sleep patterns.

Peppermint Jam has been going strong since the early ’90s - a label that’s seen trends come and go. What’s the secret to keeping it relevant and true to its roots for over 30 years?

Mousse T.: I have to be honest - for a long time we thought we didn’t have a master plan. We just did it for the love of music. By doing this, we built a big music catalogue which became the backbone of the label. Of course, there are times when your label goes into hibernation and comes back strong with a fresh breeze. Right now, we’re enjoying great success and love putting out tracks with rough beats and great vocals!

What advice would you give to young or new artists trying to balance underground credibility with mainstream success?

Mousse T.: You’re only as cool as your last record. Meaning, you can do mainstream stuff and then come back with a super club weapon — it’s all good. Just make sure you put the most effort into whatever you do. It’s a proper job!

You’ve been around the world with your music - we bet you have many stories to tell. Can you share a short fun one with us?

Mousse T.: Meet me at Peti Kupe and I might tell you one…

Finally, can you give us a hint - what kind of vibe should our crowd expect from your set at Discoton x Dobar Disco?

Mousse T.: It’s gonna be a celebration of life - dope grooves, loads of secret weapons, and some tracks you might recognize. We want smiles and love on the dance floor!

 

Tickets can be found here, and hurry up as they are going fast!