Meet MËSTIZA, the DJ duo mixing beats and heritage. ’Mestiza’ is a beautiful Spanish word that describes a woman of European and Latin-American descent. In this case, it captures perfectly the pulse of the DJ duo, who truly embody their name.
The Spanish pair celebrates the fusion of cultures through their music, style, and dedication to female empowerment. Formed in 2021 after years of friendship, these two former producers got together to revive flamenco influences and blend them with electronic beats. The result is a collection of high-energy electronic anthems and versatile sets that lift any atmosphere.
In the short time they’ve been performing, the duo is now firmly established within the superclub scene, capturing the attention of audiences across Europe. Commanding the decks like seasoned MCs, the pair have played iconic venues, from Ibiza’s Space to London’s more intimate Annabel’s. Promising a true “festival for the senses”, their performances go beyond sound, they’re a multisensory experience. With a style that earns them front-row seats at some of Milan’s most coveted runway shows, including Missoni and Sportmax. They masterfully merge high-end fashion with flamenco flair, never leaving the house without their signature cordovan hats.
We spoke to MËSTIZA to learn more about their love of music and style and to see what’s in store for the future.
How did you come up with the idea of mixing flamenco with electronic music? What does your creative process look like?
We knew each other and were friends for a few years, but it was not until the end of 2021 that the idea of getting together as a duo and mixing flamenco and electronic music came about, since we had Mexico or Africa as a reference, to name a few, where fusion music does exist and it worked very well. Our creative process is based on experimenting with new sounds and by trying and trying until the mix works, and we like what it sounds like.
Over the years, how have your professional goals and ambitions developed and changed? Which experiences have been particularly significant for you?
Three years ago, we were playing for 100 people, we could see the faces of practically everyone who was at our session. Now that has changed, at our sessions there are tons of people, it feels different; it's spectacular to see those massive venues full of people who come to see us.
The music industry is fast-paced and full of changes. How do you manage to stay true to yourself while also remaining relevant? What advice would you give to emerging artists trying to create their own unique musical identity?
We try not to pigeonhole ourselves and experiment to always give something fresh and new to our audience. The best advice is to be themselves. If something makes you special and characterises you, make the most of it because it is surely that difference from the rest that will make you successful.
You’ve cited influences from traditional flamenco artists like Camarón de la Isla and Paco de Lucía to modern electronic influences like Black Coffee. How do you balance those traditional and contemporary elements in your sound and which musicians and bands do you particularly appreciate, and why?
The flamenco classics you mention are references and our idols since we were children; nowadays, we love Fred Again or The Blaze to name just a few.
When you think about the next five years, what visions do you have for your future?
We hope to produce many hits and be able to take our Sacro by MËSTIZA party to the best places in the entire world.
Is there a particular collaboration that’s been a dream come true for you as artists?
Our dream collaborations are closer than we think. Stay tuned for our new music that we will release in a few months.
With your constant touring schedule, how do you stay inspired and energized to keep performing at such a high level across different continents? Are there any rituals or routines you follow before going on stage?
We try to stay connected to music releases. In our van, we always listen to new music. And when we travel to a new country, we are interested in the artists who are playing there, and we try to reflect that in our sessions.
Fashion plays a big part in your performances. How do your style and visual aesthetic contribute to the overall MËSTIZA experience? How do you make decisions about what to wear on stage and which collaborations to pursue?
We don't have a stylist; we think of each look ourselves. We've always loved fashion, so it's very easy for us to combine until we find the perfect look. The hard part is being in agreement, but we trust each other so much that even if at first someone has doubts, in the end it always turns out to be a success.
Is there a piece of clothing or an accessory that is indispensable to you when performing?
Our cordobés hat and some good black glasses.
What is your favorite piece in your home in terms of interior design? Is there a particular item you purchased, like a painting or a lamp, that holds special meaning for you?
We love collecting antique art, when we travel, we try to go to flea markets, and we love buying decoration, either for ourselves or as a gift.
What book are you currently reading or have recently read?
Currently, we are both reading the same book: Just Kids, the biography of Patti Smith
Is there a particular hobby that helps you unwind?
Being with our family is our favourite hobby, and unfortunately, we have less and less time for it, but when we have a few days of rest, we travel to our hometown.
After a long day, what do you crave the most?
A long bath reading a book or watching our favourite show.
What five things are essential when you travel?
Our bag, iPhone with music, headphones, lip gloss, and a good book.
How do you define luxury in your life, and has this definition changed over time?
Currently, I would tell you that having a day off is our most desired luxury.
Can you tell us about your involvement in charitable organizations and why these causes are important to you?
We are very aware of how lucky we are right now; that's why we don't forget where we come from. Whenever we have the opportunity and we are offered to help a cause, we are 100% supportive.
What is your earliest childhood memory?
Car trips listening to flamenco with our family.
How much do you trust your gut feeling?
100%, Undoubtedly. And so far, it hasn't let us down much; let's hope it continues like this.
Thank you MËSTIZA, it was a pleasure!
Last Updated on November 21, 2024 by Editorial Team
