Latin Grammy-nominated producer and DJ, El Dusty, is known for pioneering the “electronic cumbia” or “nu cumbia” sound. With a passion for digging through vinyl and a mastery of production tools like Ableton, he continues to push the boundaries of electronic music. His latest project with DannyLux, “Soltera,” is just a taste of what’s to come as he gears up for the release of his second album and a slew of singles.

Read our exclusive interview below and listen to El Dusty’s music on White Label now.

Where do you call home? 

I was born and raised in Corpus Christi, TX, and I am based out of there now.

What is the significance of your artist name?

“Dusty” has always been my nickname growing up, so I kept it going. I always wanted a “cool” name but could never think of anything. “Fresh Dusty Boy” or “DJ Dusty Records” just didn’t work (laughs).

How do you describe your musical style? 

I do a lot of different genres, but I’m known for being one of the pioneers of “electronic cumbia” or “nu cumbia.”

What first inspired you to get into music? 

My family was always listening to music at home and I always wanted to be a DJ. When I was about 12, my older brother and his friends brought home some stolen 1200s and a mixer and that’s how it started!

Is there an artist or person who has inspired you most? 

I am definitely inspired by Rick Rubin, DJ Shadow, Pharrell, and Armand Van Helden.

What’s your favorite piece of music production gear or software? 

I love chopping up samples on the MPC2000, but I am almost 100% on Ableton all day long.

What’s your favorite part of the music production process? 

My favorite part of the production process is finding samples on vinyl and digging through records when I travel or at home in my collection.

Any projects we should know about? 

We just released the DannyLux song “Soltera” that I produced on, and right now, I’m working on my 2nd album and tons of singles!

Check out El Dusty’s music on BPM Supreme’s White Label and read more interviews here.

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