Hawaiian raised, Los Angeles resident Mahalo spoke with us about his roots in dance music, winning Insomniac’s Discovery Project, and what we can expect from him at The Underworld. Check out his exclusive interview with Michael Nocera below.
Being born and partially growing up in Hawaii, what were your main musical influences? When you found electronic dance music, was it something you got into once you moved to AZ, or did you have roots elsewhere?
My dad actually was the one who got me into dance music as a kid. I was always listening to artists like Leftfield, Paul Oakenfold, Christopher Lawrence, etc when growing up. I did in fact start dj’ing electronic music in Arizona though as a teenager.
Since winning the Discovery Project, fresh off the release of tracks on a few major labels, you’ve been on a huge upward trajectory. Where would you like to see your self a year from now ? What are some of the goals you have set for yourself?
I think it would be very cool to get to travel overseas to play some shows and that’s certainly a goal of mine. Would be amazing if that happened within a year from now, but I’m also realistic so we’ll just have to see 😉
Coming from being a fan to now being a performer on stage, has your opinion or view of the scene changed?
No not really. It’s definitely changed a bit since the time when I first got involved but at heart I’m still just a fan of the music who has been lucky enough to get to share these stages with the people that inspire me.
What do you consider your style of music to be? How is it fitting in with the current popular music?
Deep and groovy house music would be the best way to put it. I think it’s fitting where it needs to fit. My intention is never to try and make something that’s simply popular or following a trend, but rather just make what I think is cool or sounds dope.
After playing small underground raves in Arizona, how does it feel seeing your name on lineups and playing alongside some of your biggest inspirations?
It’s a rewarding feeling. I think it just is an example that hard work and dedication will pay off, eventually. It certainly feels like a million years ago that I was doing those small undergrounds but I learned a lot during my time there. It all comes back to that with time and persistence to your craft anyone can make their dreams come true.
For those in Arizona who have seen you play in the past under your older moniker, what can they expect when you return to play for the first time in Arizona as Mahalo?
Oh wow… It’s very different. I was focused mainly on harder styles and genres back then. I’ve taken a step far away from all that. With Mahalo, I want to give more emotive and groovy sets that are meant to move you.
Connect with Mahalo:
Website
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
SoundCloud
We are also very excited to bring you the very first edition of The Underworld 2017 Official Mixtape Series
