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DJ Ariel: A Piece Of Heaven
He’s sexy. He’s talented. And yes… he’s gay. Argentinean DJ Ariel Belloso is down under for the first time for a fly by visit. He already played at Sydney’s Midnight Shift on the weekend, and this weekend he’ll be heading to Connections in Perth and Melbourne’s infamous Market Hotel.
The youngest son of a nightclub owning family, Ariel grew up in the vibrant latin clubscene of Rosario, Argentina’s second largest city. He has also sold millions of albums, he plays all over the world and is currently a resident DJ at London’s Heaven nightclub.
He took a few moments out to have a chat with Same Same prior to his highly anticipated Australian debut next weekend.
So, I believe this is the first time you have come to Australia.What are you most looking forward to and what are your expectations from the Aussie audience?
Yes, It is my first ever time in Australia. I am glad I made it. I look forward to visiting all the cities, and giving my best at all my gigs. I expect to give the crowds the hypnotic Latin grooves that I am known for, but I’ll mix it with stuff they know too.
How did you first get into DJ-ing? Was it because of your nightclub owning family?
I became a full time professional DJ when I was 15 years old, playing to crowds of over 2000 people every weekend. Rosario, in Argentina, has a tradition of employing very young DJs to play the main nightclubs. My family’s nightclub Katanga (1971- 1982) was also pivotal in my career, as was my older brother who is also a DJ. My family worked in the club since I was born, and as a kid I used to play with toys on the Katanga dance floor.
As a DJ, you are an inspiration to many. But which DJs and music artists inspire you?
I am inspired by any great piece of music composition, whatever the artist, style or form. The only DJ I ever really looked up to was my brother. When I was younger, I didn’t have that desire to be a DJ initially. I wanted to be a tennis player! My brother was the one who really inspired me. I became a DJ after watching him.
Which musical artist would you most like to work or collaborate with?
I am not so keen on collaborations or remixing other people. I enjoy writing original material. There are lots of different talented musicians out there, the list is endless. Though I have to say Michael Jackson is probably top of the list. The rhythm in his voice is what hooks me.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I was lucky to have had a very successful career as DJ and music producer, not just travelling the world but holding some extraordinary big residencies and selling many records. The most important thing for me is to be good on every occasion for the people. It’s all about the music and the energy, not the celebrity of the DJ.
You’ve played some awesome clubs world-wide. And quite a few of them are gay clubs. What do you like about gay clubs and why do you think you have such a gay following?
Well, I am gay, but not ‘a Gay DJ’ if that makes sense. The gay scene used to rule the world of club music before the American style circuit party took over. Luckily gay people are getting bored of the stereotype and are slowly returning to a more creative path. In my case, people are genuinely into the music I play, and have been over the years regardless of my sexuality. It is the way it should be.
Finally, since this is your first visit to Australia, what are you most looking forward to doing here, when you’re not playing up on the decks?
I look forward to seeing all the different sights and beaches even thought it’s winter. I ‘ve been told by many people that Melbourne is an amazing city too, so I look forward to having a look around even if I am only there for 24 hours.
DJ Ariel played Hunk at the Midnight Shift in Sydney lsat Saturday, and will play an exclusive three hour set at the Market Hotel in Melbourne between 1am – 4am, next Friday 5th September. Then watch out Perth, he’s at Connections on the 6th September.
What’s On in your city this weekend? Take a look at our What’s On Guide by clicking here.
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