[INTERVIEW] DANIEL LERA
I’ve listened to electronic music since I was very young. This world always called my attention. I was interested in all these artists I was hearing, and eventually I felt I needed to experience it for myself. So I bought some turntables and first vinyl to learn. This was about twelve or so years ago.
You have a very groovy sound, how did you learn how to produce?
Thanks a lot! Well, I first learned by doing it for hours and hours and making a lot of mistakes. Later, I started taking it more seriously and that’s when I started to study the subject.
What made you want to start producing?
The sense of limitation at the time of playing with two or three turntables. That's what pushed me to want to find out more.
Do you have a ritual for when you go into the studio? A certain way of working all the time? Any tricks or tips?
I dont have any ritual. Just sit when I want to produce, which is almost always (haha). A lighted place, a good seat and cigars.
Tricks or tips? Nothing too. The only thing I put as a rule is to make music that I would play.
What makes you happy?
A lot of things, not just music. I like hanging out with friends, drinking beer, seeing football, films, books. A lot of things make me happy.
What’s the best advice you could give yourself right now?
Continue to work as I have done so far. And try to always evolve and learn more. And enjoy, especially enjoy.
Who has influenced your sound? Do you have any other influences in life in general?
The music that I listen to, for sure. Generally, I dont listen to electronic music. I listen to rock, rap, r&b and soul, and it shows in my productions. I seek to make music that makes me dance with ease. There are some very good genres in electronic music but not so danceable. This isn’t what I’m seeking.
What have been the biggest challenges for you so far on this music trajectory?
My first challenge was to release a track of mine, and I got it. Then my second, was to release on a major label and I got on Nicole Moudaber´s label.
And the biggest rewards?
To see and hear my tracks played in the best clubs and festivals by great artists like Nicole Moudaber, Carl Cox, Marco Carola, Joseph Capriati, Steve Lawler and many more. To see the people dancing and enjoying my music. This is the best feeling that I can have.
What’s next for you?
This year comes with hard work and with some surprises.
Thanks so much to Daniel for taking the time to connect!