David Morales, from his current base in Italy, shares with Funktasy untold tales of his life journey from his perspective. David Morales, a native New Yorker, is a globally revered American DJ, a Grammy award-winning record producer, a songwriter, and a businessman. He has produced and remixed over 500 records for an all-star roster of multi-platinum artists, including Mariah Carey, U2, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Madonna, and Whitney Houston. Morales was one of the first superstar DJs to actively tour the world—and his activity, over the years, has only increased. You can check out more about David Morales in our top 10 house DJs of 2020.
What is a daily routine for David Morales?
I normally wake up early, have my coffee and then something to eat. I will watch the news and digest before I go to the gym. I then go back home for a bit then go to the studio. I will either spend all afternoon and evening in the studio and order in or I will go home to have lunch a bit of a siesta then back to the studio.
You are a veteran globe-trotting DJ. How has touring evolved for you?
Well I haven’t toured since last year so there’s been no evolution.
From ownership of Montreal’s Stereo Nightclub to Canadian club residencies, you have had a close connection with Canada. Tell us about it.
I love Canada. Montreal was my second home for a good minute. STEREO was a game changer for me as a DJ and as a person. I wear the STEREO tattoo proudly. I never intended on owning STEREO. It just happened organically. I spent 9 years there, and I will remember that club and city for the rest of my life.
Tell us about your creation and production method. Do you work in the box/analog/hybrid?
I have evolved in the production world with the new technology so you could say that I work out the box literally. I live on Ableton. It has given me more control and freedom to create. Whether it’s a new idea or a DJ tool, I’m having loads of fun. I work with digital and analog.
Today, North American radio stations are still not giving house music the love it deserves. What’s your take on that?
It’s crazy because what is EDM? It’s the evolution of house music. American stations and record labels have always been late to the party.
Do you have any interesting stage and/or wardrobe error stories that you would like to share with us?
Meeeeee????? Nooooooo hahahaha
Your athletic body and fashion statement is a signature style of yours in your videos and live sets. What’s your take on a DJ’s sex appeal for their career?
I never went out to have that glory. I was a very skinny kid most of my youth. The only reason that I would take off my shirt is because most clubs back in those days allowed smoking so between the sweat and the smoke I would end up smelling like an ash tray and I hate a wet shirt or t-shirt.
Who is your dream artist to collaborate with and why?
My dream artist has gone to the afterlife. Michael Jackson. I never got to work with him personally.
Italy vs. New York City. How is the change for you?
I was born in New York so I will always be a true New Yorker but, at this moment in my life, I prefer Italy. There’s a better quality of life here. People aren’t as stressed out and after what’s been going on in America for the last 4 years, I will never live there again. Living in Italy, I feel as if I’m on holiday every day.
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