EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Yaya, a globally renowned artist, is known for not only his unique and electrifying sound but also for his label, Tamango Records, which also has been a point of reference for emerging talents in the music industry.
As he reflects on a fruitful 2023, Yaya provides insights into his experiences, the journey of his imprint, and his commitment to nurturing new talents. From unforgettable parties to successful releases, his year was marked
he opens up about his upcoming visions for
2024, along
with remarkable moments, with
his dreams, inspirations, and the essence behind his distinct sound.
Yaya, reflecting on 2023, could you share some of the defining moments and experiences you had and give us a glimpse of what’s in the pipeline for 2024?
“This year has been extraordinary for me. I had the opportunity to release on labels like Elrow Music, Revival NYC, TRMNL (on vinyl as well), and Deeperfect. However, that’s not all; I’m about to release on my label once again, contributing my track “The Bridge” to the third volume of the successful VA series “Tamango Shots”, while also remixing a track by PIV boss Prunk together with Gaskin, also this to be released on Tamango Records. My label has also achieved excellent results, and I have to give a big shoutout to my team and Late Replies: their “What The Funk” EP has been at #1 on Beatport for over a month and a half—probably the biggest record we’ve ever had! I had some fantastic parties this year, playing at some of the best clubs on the island including Pacha for Music On, Hï Ibiza with Fisher, Ushuaia during Loco Dice’s
birthday takeover, and
Amnesia for Do Not Sleep. Rounding up 2023, I have a nice b2b show with my dear friend wAFF lined up during ADE with the Deeperfect team on October 22nd and later on a couple of Tamango Showcases in Europe. I can’t reveal just yet where and with whom, though! Also, I’m really looking forward to returning to South America for some exciting action, including “Key Producciones” Halloween party in Uruguay and the amazing D-Edge in Sao Paulo. I don’t want to spoil much about what I’m preparing for
2024, but a party I can’t wait
to play again is certainly “Partai” with my favourite Venezuelan crew.”
“The label, born nearly seven years ago, has evolved significantly, and witnessing its growth has been extremely meaningful to me. I am satisfied with the path and journey the label has undergone, managing to stay true to its original sound and the vision I had when founding it. Tamango has been a stepping stone for artists like Rossi., Toman, Fleur Shore, and Manda Moor, who are now successfully carving their paths in the music industry. Keep an eye on rising talents like Nathan Alzon, ADEZ, and JAEN, who will all be playing at the Rotterdam showcase at TOFFLER on the 14th of October”.
Your journey a beacon for
and distinct sound have been aspiring DJs around the globe.
How do you feel about being a source of inspiration, and what advice would you like to give to those looking to follow in your footsteps?
“Having been a DJ for over 20 years, it brings me immense joy to now be a source of inspiration for others. I’ll continue to share the same vibes that made me fall in love with music, dancing to my idol, Michael Jackson, when I was five. My advice to the new generation is to focus on creating quality music. While the scenario I grew up in was different, music remains paramount, whether one aspires to be famous or to be a true artist”.
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The project of remixing your late father’s album must have been an emotionally charged journey. Could you share some insights into this experience?
“Remixing my father’s album has been a dream and, finally working on it has been a fulfilling experience. I am lucky and grateful to have had such an inspiring figure in my life, and I look forward to releasing my second album next year”.
We’ve seen so many Tamango Showcases this year from NYC to Milan, Amsterdam, Lisbon, and more! How would you close 2023, and where would you like to bring your party in 2024? Would you like to bring extra/new/innovative stuff to the shows as well?
“ This year has been thrilling with numerous memorable Tamango showcases. I am excited to bring the showcase to London, Miami, and some cities in South America and am already looking forward to exploring innovative additions to enhance the shows in 2024, adding some typical African elements to it”
You’re right in the middle of an Africa tour, playing in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.
How important is it for you to reconnect with your heritage?
“ Being in Africa is always special. Originating from Benin, I wish to spend more time exploring this vast continent. By playing here, I believe I am contributing to the growth of the minimal house sound in regions that are still uncharted territories for dance music. I am confident that a proper scene will establish here very soon, as my experiences in places like Nigeria have shown the enthusiasm and preparedness of the crowd for genre of music”.
this
In this enlightening conversation, Yaya paints a vivid picture of his musical journey and endeavors in 2023 and offers a sneak peek into what the future holds. From his commitment to his label, Tamango Records, to his inspiring journey, remixing his late father’s album, and his exciting experiences touring globally, Yaya’s reflections reveal his passion, resilience, and continuous strive for musical evolution. As we wait with bated breath for what 2024 has in store, Yaya’s vision and pursuit of excellence are sure to continue influencing and shaping the global music landscape.
and Moving forward, what visions do you harbor for
Tamango Records, and can you shed some light on the future? How do you choose the tracks to sign on Tamango? What elements do you look for the most?
“ I am thrilled to announce the launch of a new label, Tamango XPress, by the end of the year. This will serve as a platform for more gritty, raw, and dancefloor-oriented music. When choosing tracks for Tamango, I look for that extra pinch of Funk in the bassline combined with a cool minimal-house approach, good grooves, and wellbalanced elements and rhythms”.
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