We caught up with Brazilian DJ FTampa to talk about his new music video, festivals, fashion and how he spends his down time away from the music.
How did you first get into music?
I saw a band playing at school, the guitar player was a longtime friend of mine, and all of the girls were screaming. I got back to my class and I said “guys we need to start making music!” That’s how everything started!
When was the pinnacle moment you knew you could make a career as a DJ?
When I fell in love with EDM in 2010. I found out that everything was made by one guy and I was tired of being in bands and getting into “never-ending discussions” about everything!
Where and when was your first ever DJ set?
I was in a small city close to Belo Horizonte, my home town. It was the worst party ever and I ended up playing for only two drunk girls! One of the DJs who played before me played really nice tracks and he said he was one of the best producers in the game. I found out years later that he had only played Vengeance Samples lol haha.
Name the three main artists you had on your playlist growing up?
Guns and Roses, Korn and Skrillex!
Do you have any new music out at the moment you can tell us about?
“Who We Are” is my new single and I’m really excited about it because this is a song about my life. I never wanted to talk about my life because I had it quite tough growing up but now I feel it’s time for people to know me better and so “Who We Are” is the first track where I share my story! Watch the video! It’s all from heart!
What has been your career highlight to date?
Being the first Brazilian to ever play at the main stage of Tomorrowland is for sure a big one that will last forever, I will never forget that day. Also I’m very happy with my level of production right now and how the music is coming up. I’m very very happy with ‘Who We Are’ and what the future holds… So in short, looking back to memories at Tomorrowland but the present is also exciting with the stuff I’m doing on studio!
If you could collaborate with someone past or present, who would it be?
Michael Jackson from the past! For now, Adam Levine. Simple love everything he does!
Who’s you favourite DJ to go B2B with?
Skrillex! I love every track he puts out!
Who’s your favourite DJ to watch live?
After the Swedish House Mafia show at ULTRA, it is really hard to pick another one. They killed it!
Favourite song out at the moment?
My new single “Who We Are”. This song means a lot to me.
Favourite song ever?
Guns and Roses – Welcome to the jungle!
What DJs should we have on our radar for this summer?
I think you guys definitely should look for 22 Bullets. I love his music! Also I really like Bali Bandits! Two of my favs atm!
Festival season is here, what’s your favourite thing about playing festivals?
Meeting all of the DJs and getting drunk with them!! Seriously, every festival is so much fun!
Which has been your favourite festival moment?
Tomorrowland! I have my personal history with this festivals and I have nothing but love for all of the team there!
What’s your festival outfit?
Basic jeans and a white tee!
How do you spend your down time away from music?
I have a kid now! I try to spend as much time as I can with him! It’s so funny watching him learning and teach me how to pay attention to the simple things!
If you weren’t a DJ, what would you be…
A DJ hahaha! Or maybe a marketing guy because I used to be in the past!
Who’s your dream girl?
My girl Anna! I’m telling you Brazilian girls are amazing! I know you agree :p
Favourite place to vacation?
Bangkok! Love that city!
Drink of choice on a night out?
Vodka + Cranberry! Favorite! If you see me, invite me to drink it and we will be friends!
Favourite film or TV series?
Westworld is my favorite series right now! Avengers for the movies!
Describe your fashion/style?
I try to be basic on clothes, but when it comes to shoes, I try to get the weirdest possible hahaha.
Who would you consider a style influencer for you?
I don’t usually look at what people wear to much be honest. I like to wear comfortable clothes and I like to do my own thing!
Finally, words of wisdom for those wanting to make it in music…
Study a lot and believe in yourself! Much love to all of you! Cheers.
Checkout the music video for Who We Are below: