At Plat4orm, our mission is to elevate local talent and provide a platform for both local and international artists to connect with the greater Sydney electronic music community.
As part of this initiative, each month we will be showcasing a rising DJ within the Sydney community. Meet our very first artist of the month – Dr Mendez!
The French-born turned local legend has given us some insight into the best practices for upcoming DJs/producers, his favorite releases and some background on how it all began for him in our interview below.
Be sure to catch Dr. Medez this Saturday the 5th of March at our Plat4orm Mardi Gras Special and take a listen to his special guest selector mix on our Soundcloud now!
How did you begin DJing/ producing music?
As a little boy of only eleven, living in the south of France, I fell in love with House Music and the club culture via the incredible French producer Bob Sinclar and his album CHAMPS ELYSEES . Luckily my parents were supportive of my young dream, and I started doing sessions for school friends with a Numark DM1650 mixer and 2 DVD players. I got the bug and never stopped! Growing up, my style naturally matured into a mix between Beach house, Disco, Dance and Latin tech house, embracing for me a perfect Mediterranean hot summer vibe!!
What are some of your most notable moments over your musical career?
Two Incredible moments shape my music career so far. The first, as a 19 year old in my home town of Montpellier. The owner of a local bar/club called the Macadam Pub offered me my first season residency. I loved it! I found my home up there on the stage and stayed for 5 years, where I built a network, learnt the behind the scenes business, and gathered all the necessary tools to keep pushing forward.
The second moment came eight years ago with the opportunity to play within the Sydney electronic music scene. I did not know anyone so could not rely on my network, and had to be patient and trust in my music and talent. I am always grateful to each opportunity as it comes, approaching each gig with the same passion and enthusiasm no matter how big or small.
What has changed within your production process since you began?
When I started I found myself altering my style to suit the trendy direction, rather than following my gut feeling. What I have since learnt is the pure magic in creativity. As artists, we have to harness that magic if we are lucky enough to find it, and then express that message outward. Being authentic to who we are and what we want to say is what makes the music special. Your vibe attracts your tribe!
What do you feel is the best song you’ve released and why?
‘Try To Get Away’ is a very emotional song for me. Created during the first Covid lock down when, for the first time since I left home, I could not go back. I was missing my summer, my beach, my French rose and family, and I just wanted to get away. So I wrote about it. The track was signed by French Label Onirism, who also created a brilliant video clip filmed on the beach in my Grandmother’s hometown. They captured exactly the vibe I was going for.
My new release ‘’Night by Night’’, due for release soon on MEGAO Music Label, looks set to become my favorite IBIZA anthem for Summer 22 .
What is the best part about being a DJ/ producer in Sydney?
We have the sea, the beach, the sun, the pretty girls, the pretty boys, and it just feels like home… The scene is very eclectic as in addition to Australian Dj/Producers many come from all over the world, making the scene a giant incubator for talent. As technology becomes more accessible, everybody is looking to become a DJ. Which makes everyone replaceable, right? So we have to consistently rise to the occasion to make sure the public is satisfied by the vibe we offer if we are to stay relevant. I’m up to the challenge!
If you had one message to give to other producers/DJs this year what would it be?
The last three years have been rough, that is a fact! However, we must keep dreaming hard, keep believing in our music every day, and transform this positivity into production (tracks, mixtapes, mash ups). The public is waiting for you, and If music truly is your passion, you will know exactly what to do .
Top tip for DJs/ producers trying to break into the scene?
Patience, and delivering every single weekend. You should approach a small gig the same way you would with a big one. For me, the best way to get noticed is for example doing a great warm up. Do not look necessary for your name on the line up, or playing at a peak time. Believe in your music, your own style and start your journey afresh each weekend. People in charge of the music industry pay attention to this type of commitment.
Tell us about an artist that you are loving right now and why?
Right now… waooooo! I listen to so many artists each week!! If I had to name one, I would say Rafa Barios from Sevilla, Spain. He describes his style as Fiesta, pure latin tech house with lots of drums and incredible vocals. His latest EP Bandidos Crew 2 is pure fire