Know Your DJ - Carlos Hirlemann

Interview

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

I always had a passion for music since I was young. I was constantly looking for new music, experimenting with different genres, and discovering what resonated with me.

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

I find that I enjoy exploring a variety of genres when I play. It really depends on the time slot I have and where I’m playing — based on that, I try to adapt. That said, my sound tends to lean toward lots of percussion and Latin/Afro sounds, as that’s what makes me feel closest to home.

If I were to categorize it, I’d say a mix of Deep House / House, Tech House, Minimal / Deep Tech, and Techno.

3. What does DJing mean to you? How would you describe the role and its responsibilities? It’s a form of expression. Music tends to bring out strong emotions, and I try to tell a story through my sets, playing in a way that helps people let loose and have a good time.

4. Who are some of your favorite producers right now, and why do they inspire you?

This is a tough question to answer, as many artists inspire me in different ways. Production-wise, some names that come to mind — and whose releases I’ve been really digging lately — are Ramon Bedoya, Angel Heredia, Joeski, Harvy Valencia, and Nick Curly. But there are so many more.

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

The Good Life by Sean Miller (Joeski Remix). It’s such a great track, and I resonate deeply with the vocals. I could dance to that beat all night long.

6. What’s the most bizarre situation you’ve encountered while DJing, and how did you handle it?

At a recent show, I was just starting my set when a guy dislocated his knee. We waited for the ambulance, but I had to keep playing in the meantime. (Was it my doing? I guess we’ll never know.)

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

I find that each show has its own special moments — sometimes it’s sharing the experience with friends, other times it’s the venue itself, or simply seeing the crowd enjoying the music.

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

Not an entire set, but I’ve definitely messed up some transitions. It’s part of the learning process, so I just keep moving forward and focus on getting better. Taking a deep breath helps. 🙂

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

I’m actually trying to work on that. I feel like I slack a bit on social media, so if you have any ideas, send them over.

10. When you’re not behind the decks, what kind of music do you usually listen to? Any guilty pleasures?

I listen to 90s rap, surf rock, reggae, instrumental music, classical music, and many other genres. As for guilty pleasures, I’d say Bossa Nova — my mum used to listen to it when I was growing up, and it’s very soothing to my ears.

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

My setup is a bit old-school at the moment. I’m using a pair of CDJ-850s and a DJM-750MK2, which I recently upgraded to from a 250MK2. I’m definitely having fun figuring out creative ways to use FX, but I try to remind myself not to overdo it, as it can muddy the mix or throw people off.

12. How do you go about discovering new tracks and shaping your sound?

I listen to sets from artists I like and often find hidden gems that way. I also dig through Beatport or use Spotify radio based on tracks I enjoy. I’m pretty much looking for new music every day. Over time, I feel like I’ve trained my ears and curated a specific sound.

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

Somewhere tropical. The daytime would start warm and soulful with Afro and tribal grooves, then as the sun sets, it would slowly shift into a darker, deeper techno journey.

14. What’s something unexpected or surprising about you that fans wouldn’t guess?

I’m Batman.

15. Are you a cat or dog person?

Both.

16. Favorite cuisine?

Latin food just hits, but I’m also a sucker for Asian food. Korean BBQ is one of my favorites.

17. Favorite drink?

Water, hahaha.

18. Favorite place/travel location?

El Salvador <3 Nothing like going home.

19. What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey as a DJ in today’s music industry?

Be patient. Take your time experimenting with music. Go see different artists play live. Learn the history of the scene so you can appreciate it more once you’re part of it. Be grateful for the opportunities you receive, and remember to have fun.

20. What’s something exciting or new that’s happening in your life that you can share with your audience?

All I can say is, “Big things are coming.” 😉 Stay tuned.