Interview with Chris Marquez
DJ Introduction
Artist name?
Chris Marquez
Professional background (career highlights, experience)
Cabana Beach Bar ( Fonte da Telha)
Gliese ( Sesimbra )
The Love ( Quinta do Conde )
Vinyl Market ( Lisbon )
Capricciosa Beach ( Carcavelos)
Fizz ( Carcavelos )
Capicua ( Portimao )
Initial Questions
How did you start your career in electronic music?
I start as a dj on a local club on my town , the club was going to open and the owner ask me if i would like to make the sellection of the sound and it all start from there On the beginning with no clue how to mix but some time after i have the luck that Dj Delkarmo teach me how to propper mixand it all start to make sense.
What were your early influences, and how did they shape your musical style?
My influences on that time was Bob Sinclar and Dj Gregory on Yellow Productions ,the danceble rhythms and the music strutture make me understand much better the feeling of electronic music and also make me get more involve as a dj. It was the start point to start define my style as a dj and shape my taste about
this kind of music .
Professional Development
What were the most significant challenges you faced throughout your career?
I think my biggest challenge has always been staying true to my musical style.
I believe that a musical identity is essential for creating a path.
Highlight a memorable collaboration or event that marked your career?
Of all the performances that marked me the most, it was probably the first time. I played for so many people.
At the Alpiarça festival, together with DJ Delkarmo, it was a mix of anxiety and nervousness but it ended up going very well.
Musical Style and Evolution
How would you describe your unique musical style?
My musical style is soulful house, the genre I’m most passionate about. It has a strong influence of soul, funk, jazz, and gospel, prioritizing melody, groove, and vocals.
How do you think electronic music has evolved over the years, and what role have you played in that evolution?
I believe music is a constant evolution, marked and shaped by current trends. My role has been and continues to be that of a curator and music educator, always trying to bring new sounds and also rescuing forgotten sounds.
Music Production
What is your creative process when producing a new track?
My creative process usually begins with an idea or feeling that I want to express at the moment. As I usually work with singers and musicians, the idea grows and improves until I have a solid base to start working on, always keeping in mind the arrangement from a DJ’s perspective.
Which tools or software do you use in music production?
In music production, I work with both software and hardware, and depending on each project, I introduce musicians and singers. I like to incorporate organic percussion, which in my opinion gives unique details to each track. The software I use most is Ableton Live; it’s been the one I’ve been most fascinated to work with for many years.
Live Performance
What is your approach when performing live?
My approach is to first understand the audience and the context; not all performances are for dancing sometimes the job is to create the right atmosphere for the space and adapt the performance to the moment.
Can you share a remarkable experience from a concert or festival?
The most memorable experience is always when someone comes to praise the work you’re doing, and that feeling is always great when you feel the affection of the audience.
Connection with the Audience
Audience Interaction
How do you interact with the audience during your performances?
I like to interact with the audience through the music, I consider myself an old-school DJ in that aspect. I prefer that the music speaks for itself.
How important is the audience’s response to you?
The audience’s response is essential to understanding the dance floor and the atmosphere. Nowadays, we see a phenomenon where the response is a cell phone pointed at the booth recording for 30 seconds… These are the new times, and we have to know how to deal with them.
Trends and Opinions
How do you view current trends in electronic music?
I see the new trends in a positive light, and with great quality. Electronic music is always in constant mutation, and it’s important that these
trends come and go to give a breath of fresh air to the industry.
Is there any subgenre or movement you believe will have a significant impact in the future?
Electronic music is entering a phase of technological, sonic, and structural innovation, and the DJs/producers who adapt have a better chance of standing out. In the coming times, organic house will be the trend that will have the most impact, in my opinion.
Challenges and Opportunities
What are the main challenges electronic music DJs face today?
Being a DJ today goes far beyond playing music: it’s about being a curator, creator, communicator, and digital strategist. Today, a DJ also needs to be a content creator.Having good technique or selection is no longer enough—you need to be visible, active, and relevant online. Balancing time between creating
music, playing, and also managing social media.
Are there emerging opportunities you are exploring or consider promising?
Yes, hybrid performances and full analog performances , I think that will be the next trends and it’s what I’m exploring right now.
Advice for New DJs
What advice would you give to someone starting a career as an electronic music DJ?
The biggest piece of advice I would give is to create your own identity. The biggest mistake beginners make is trying to play what’s trendy. But what really builds a career is having a unique identity, that style that, when someone hears it, they know it’s yours.
What are the most important qualities for achieving success in this industry?
Currently, I think the greatest quality is maintaining professional value and knowing when to accept or not a job. Remain true to yourself if you truly
believe in your work.
Future Projects
Can you share some of your future projects or goals?
One of the projects I have for next year is a track that will be submitted to the Grammys by a major American label, a track that I am very satisfied with the final result of, and for sure my biggest project so far.
My goal in the music is to achieve an international career as a DJ.
