EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Electronic music, especially techno, has undergone a rapid evolution over the years, crossing borders and connecting cultures across continents. One artist who has masterfully understood and adapted to the- se dynamics is GONÇALO, a DJ and producer who has left his mark on the global scene. With a recent tour spanning Latin America—from the vibrant Santiago and Viña del Mar in Chile to the electrifying Lima in Peru and the intense nightlife of Mexico—GONÇALO reflects on the evolution of the techno scene in Latin America and the emotional differences he perceives when comparing these audiences to those in Europe or the United States.
LATIN AMERICA: A JOURNEY OF CON- TRASTS AND DEEP CONNECTIONS
Latin America has undoubtedly been one of the most dynamic and exciting regions for the expansion of elec- tronic music, and more specifically, techno. GONÇALO has experienced this firsthand, having performed in some of the region’s most representative cities, inclu- ding Santiago, Viña del Mar, Lima, and Mexico City. In this context, the DJ has observed a remarkable evo- lution in the techno scene in these countries, which, according to him, has grown exponentially in recent years. For GONÇALO, the Latin American audience has displayed a deeper knowledge and a more direct con- nection with electronic music than ever before.
“It’s incredible how the underground scene has evolved in recent years in Latin America. What I experienced on this last tour left me speechless—year after year, the techno culture in these countries keeps growing. The audience knows what they are dancing to, they recog- nize the tracks, they connect with you through social media, and they provide massive support for every per- formance. The best part is that there is still so much room for growth—completely the opposite of what I see in Europe, where things are becoming increasingly difficult due to an oversaturation of low-quality events and ‘new products’ that can’t even be called artists or musicians but still flood the scene.”
One of the most significant moments of his Latin American tour was his debut in Lima, where he played with the Vastion Group team alongside the renowned John Summit. This experience marked a turning point in his relationship with the Peruvian scene and left a deep impression on the DJ.
“I had several spectacular moments on this tour, but my debut in Lima stands out—playing with the Vastion Group team alongside John Summit. It was a show I will never forget. I left completely in love with Peru, its people, and its culture. I can’t wait to come back soon.”
EDC MEXICO: THE PRIME TIME EXPE- RIENCE AT CIRCUIT GROUNDS
A must-attend event on GONÇALO’s schedule was his performance at EDC Mexico, one of the world’s largest festivals. Playing at Circuit Grounds, the festival’s se- cond-largest stage, in front of 20,000 people, repre- sents one of the biggest pressures for any dj.
However, GONÇALO approaches these high-pressure moments with calm and focus, knowing that the most important thing is to deliver maximum intensity throu- gh his music.
“When I first got the EDC proposal, I thought it was a joke. Playing on the second-largest stage of the festi- val, at that time slot… a dream come true. I was extre- mely nervous before starting because the artist per- forming before me was very well-known in Mexico, but her BPMs were much higher than mine. I had to adapt to the situation, and I did—the crowd’s response was incredible. The key to an event of this magnitude is to bring as much intensity as possible with your music. Without a doubt, this will be one of the highlights of the year...”
ALL NIGHT LONG: THE MAGIC OF AN EXTENDED SET AT BAR AMÉRICAS
GONÇALO’s ability to connect with his audience is further tested in extended sets like his All Night Long performance at the legendary Bar Américas in Gua- dalajara. These marathon sessions allow DJs to explore their sound on a deeper level, crafting a musical and emotional journey that resonates with both the crowd’s energy and the artist’s own emotions. For GONÇALO, Bar Américas is more than just a club—it’s home. He has built a unique relationship with the venue, allowing him to deliver his best in every performance.
“This ‘All Night Long’ format can only be done in pla- ces that feel truly special, and for me, Bar Américas is much more than a club—it’s my home. The energy of the crowd, the sound, the lighting, the ‘feeling’… this is a club where music still comes first, not packed VIP sec- tions or what I call ‘techno posing.’ I’d even dare to say it’s one of the best clubs in the world.”
Throughout the night, GONÇALO knows how to main- tain a strong connection with the audience. The gradual transitions in rhythm and intensity turn the set into an emotional journey for both him and his followers. His ability to control the pace, adjusting his BPMs as the night progresses, is one of his key techniques for kee- ping the energy at its peak.
“You have to be very well-prepared for such a long set, especially musically. It’s a journey through the history of dance music, where you can grow as an artist but, more importantly, as a person. I always say—if you want to get to know me, listen to me play. That’s what an ‘All Night Long’ is—it’s opening your heart and sha- ring it with the crowd. You never know how a session will evolve, but usually, you start with lower BPMs and gradually increase speed and intensity. And, of course, there are moments to play those timeless tracks… Like I said before, it’s a musical and emotional journey.”
COLLABORATION WITH OSCAR L ON WE ARE THE BRAVE: CREATING FOR A LEGEND
GONÇALO has also made a name for himself through collaborations with major artists, and one of the most
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