Know Your DJ - Andy Klajman

Interview

1. How did you get started in DJing? What’s your journey been like so far?

Since I was very young, I listened to music from the 80s and 90s thanks to my father. I got into DJing through a friend in Argentina who was throwing a private party and asked me to help provide the music. I was 17 at the time, and although the party started small, I discovered the joy of making people dance to my carefully selected music. From that moment, I knew I wanted to pursue DJing seriously.

2. What genres do you usually play, and which are your personal favorites?

I began with Deep House and House, holding residencies in bars and clubs where I often warmed up for guest DJs. That experience broadened my musical spectrum and helped me shape my own groove-driven signature sound. These days, I lean more toward deep Progressive House. Some of my main influences include Hernan Cattaneo, Nick Warren, Ezequiel Arias, Mike Griego, Baunder, and Oliverio. My favorite genres to play and listen to are Progressive House and Deep House, though I respect all genres and artists.

3. What does DJing mean to you? How would you describe the role?

A DJ is someone who reads the emotions of the crowd and creates a musical story that takes them on a journey from start to finish. Beyond the music, today’s events often rely on lighting, visuals, dancers, and overall aesthetics—but the DJ remains at the heart of that experience.

4. Who are some of your favorite producers right now, and why?

Some of my favorites are Fer Ferrari, Jay West, Manuel Sahagun, Hernan Cattaneo, Baunder, Ezequiel Arias, Mike Griego, and Nick Warren. They inspire me with their distinctive sounds and the way they push boundaries while staying true to their style. I also owe a lot to producer Sebastián Arévalo and the Deepclass Records label, who opened the doors for me to connect with many incredible artists in the deep house genre.

5. If you could only play one track for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

That’s a tough choice, but I’d say Negrocan – Cada vez que te veo. Its sound and groove are iconic for me, and it always resonates with the crowd.

6. What’s the most unusual situation you’ve faced while DJing, and how did you handle it? Sometimes people approach me asking for Latin music instead of electronic. I’m always honest with them, encouraging them to trust the vibe. Many times, they come back at the end of the night saying, “You were right, I had a great time—thank you.”

7. Can you share some of your favorite memories from past gigs?

I worked for many years as a booth manager at an Irish bar in Argentina, where I met incredible DJs like Magda, Richie Hawtin, and Troy Pierce. Those experiences shaped my understanding of the craft and gave me unforgettable memories.

8. Have you ever had a set go completely wrong? How did you bounce back?

Mistakes can happen—after all, we’re human. The key is to remain calm, adapt, and persevere. I’ve had moments where the crowd didn’t connect with my selections, so I adjusted my style on the fly. The important thing is to put on a brave face and keep the energy alive.

9. How do you stay connected with your audience outside of your sets?

Through social media, and by joining them at other events to support different DJs. Back in Argentina, I often went out dancing with my crowd. Here in Moncton, Canada, where I’ve been for two years, it’s more challenging to build that kind of community—but I haven’t lost faith.

10. When you’re not DJing, what kind of music do you usually listen to? Any guilty pleasures?I enjoy everything from 80s and 90s classics to disco, rock, and even classical music. I also spend a lot of time listening to other DJs’ sets to stay inspired.

11. What’s your current DJ setup? Any favorite tools or gear?

I currently use a Pioneer XDJ XZ controller. I also love Technics 1200 turntables, Pioneer CDJs, Pioneer mixers, and Allen & Heath mixers.

12. How do you discover new tracks and shape your sound?

I listen to promos from friends and fellow DJs, explore online music stores, and follow labels and artists I admire. This helps me keep my sets fresh and unique.

13. If you could host your dream party anywhere in the world, where would it be, and what would the vibe be like?

I’d love to host an open-air event like Creamfields or Hernan Cattaneo’s Sunsetstrip. It would feature giant screens, lights, food and drink stalls, and an immersive vibe. If the weather didn’t cooperate, I’d take it indoors with the same energy.

14. What’s something unexpected about you that fans might not know?

I never play the same music twice. I always strive to surprise the crowd with fresh tracks and create a new story every time.

15. Are you a cat or dog person?

I love all animals—both cats and dogs.

16. Favorite cuisine?

Grilled Argentine meat or empanadas.

17. Favorite drink?

Vodka with Speed, Red Bull, or Coca-Cola.

18. Favorite travel destination?

Ibiza in Spain and Sorrento in Italy.

19. What advice would you give to someone starting out as a DJ today?

Train your ear by listening to all types of music, then define your own style. Be consistent, never give up, and practice mixing every day. Network with people in the industry, stay humble, respectful, and grateful. Patience is everything—success comes in its own time.

20. What’s something exciting or new happening in your life right now?

I’m very grateful that Moncton, Canada, has welcomed me into its music scene. Building a community here isn’t easy, but I’m determined. For me, DJing isn’t about fame—it’s about being remembered for the quality of my music, not appearances.