BIMM at Reeperbahn Festival 2025: José Carlos interview
Every year, Hamburg’s St Pauli neighbourhood transforms into a hub of creativity as Reeperbahn Festival takes over the area. As Europe’s largest club festival, Reeperbahn brings together established names and emerging talent from across the world, alongside a packed conference programme that connects the international music industry.
This year, BIMM students were right at the heart of it, performing, networking, and gaining first-hand experience of one of the most exciting festivals on the calendar. We caught up with some of them to hear about their highlights, what they learned, and how being part of BIMM prepared them for the opportunity.
We spoke with José Carlos, a Bass Performance graduate from BIMM Berlin, who performed at Reeperbahn as part of Kelvin Jones’ band. Fresh off stage, he shared what it felt like to play the festival, the importance of collaboration, and their dream festivals for the future.
Introduce yourself in your own words.
My name is José Carlos, but most people call me JC. I’m from Ecuador, I’m 22 years old, a bass player, and I’ve been playing for around seven years now. I just finished my degree at BIMM.
Can you tell us a little bit about the performance?
It was at Docks Club, and I performed with Kelvin Jones, now known as Mupani. The show was madness — the crowd was amazing, and the band was just top tier. Honestly, it was such a privilege to play with these people. Every minute of rehearsal paid off. The crew were so nice, the whole experience was out of this world. I still can’t believe it.
Can you tell us more about your time studying at BIMM Berlin?
I just finished in May. I studied Bass Performance, and the highlight for me was definitely the community. You meet people who are like-minded, who share that same passion and drive. That’s where I met Natalia, my band’s lead singer. Big shout-out to her — she used to do backing vocals for Kelvin Jones, and about a year ago, I worked with them on a music video. When they needed a sub for this gig, Kelvin thought of me, and now here I am.
Do you have any advice for artists in a similar position to yourself?
You’ve got to be present, meet people, put yourself out there, and make the most of your time at music school. The community you get at BIMM, you don’t find anywhere else.
Let’s do some quick-fire questions. First up: what’s the first concert you ever went to?
Kreator and Judas Priest, when I was about 13 or 14, back in Ecuador.
Is there a dream festival you’d love to play one day?
Glastonbury, for sure. And Quito Fest in my hometown — that would be a dream, just to play anywhere back home. Also, the Montreux Jazz Festival. I’ve always wanted to go there and perform.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?
Dua Lipa – if you’re watching this, hit me up! Her music just grooves like crazy. I’d love to work with her and see her live someday.
Last one – what’s your favourite move on stage?
I’d say any synchronised move with the guitarist or the singer. Those little moments when you lock in, look at each other, and you’re both just feeling it – that’s the best part of any show.
Curious to find out more?
Come visit us at an Open Day!
