Papa DJ, the internationally acclaimed deejay, began his musical journey in some of the most exclusive clubs across Italy, where he spent half of his career before moving to the vibrant heart of the French Riviera: La Principauté de Monaco.
Here, he captivated sophisticated audiences at prestigious social events like the Rose Ball, the Monaco Yacht Show, the Monte Carlo Grand Prix, and the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses, among many others. After setting the dance floor on fire at Jimmy’z Club for nearly a decade, he was enshrined in the pantheon of the world’s top DJs in what has now become his realm: the Buddha Bar Monte-Carlo, where he serves as both music curator and artistic director. Abu Dhabi, Mykonos, London, Qatar, Moscow, Istanbul, Kyiv, Lisbon, and Mumbai are just a few cities where Papa DJ has enchanted diverse audiences, from the world’s most renowned nightclubs to prestigious international events.
His eclectic sets are defined by a wide array of musical genres: ethnic house, slow deep, House, oriental, and world music. This last genre is the cornerstone of his label, Papamusique, which brings to the forefront the sounds of various countries, the very essence reflected in one of his most significant compilations, Cosmopolis, alongside Ibiza Fashion Café and Manhattan Fashion Café, which have helped disseminate his musical selections to all corners of the globe. Exclusively for Celebre Magazine, Papa DJ graciously granted us an interview, and we took the opportunity to ask him a few questions.
Papa DJ, your artistic journey has taken you to the pinnacle of the music world. What’s the secret to your success?
In a single word, it’s passion and dedication, commitment, perseverance, and, above all, curiosity to discover new things. Music knows no boundaries; it’s the medium that, along with imagination, allows you to travel and explore the sounds of every country in the world. That’s the essence of ethnic music. A bit of luck certainly doesn’t hurt, along with many sleepless nights.
In a world where AI is becoming ubiquitous, how do you see the future of music?
It’s the future that’s unfolding. It’s a new way of presenting music. We’re globalized now, and we increasingly rely on technology. It seems the world is thirsty for it. I use PCs and various devices to work. It’s all about how you use them. I started with vinyl and have embraced the entire technological journey. I love progress; I thrive on projects that draw from memories understood as experiences.
What advice would you give to young people who aspire to follow your path and dream of becoming world-renowned DJs?
Only passion will keep you moving forward. Listen every day, understand the trends, and above all, don’t just imitate but learn and grow. Don’t rush; opportunities must be created; they’re not spontaneous.
With over forty years of experience behind the decks, Papa DJ is truly one of the rare, dazzling stars lighting up the current musical landscape. He never stops learning from what surrounds him, absorbing as much as possible to ensure that what he conveys through his music is always fresh, exclusive, and surprising. Experiencing one of his sets is always a unique and exhilarating experience. The sense of community reflected in his international rhythms transforms the audience before him from a mere crowd into a single entity, listening and dancing to the same vibrations.
In an increasingly divided and self-centred world, it’s reassuring to know that there are still people like the great Papa DJ who bring people together through their chosen art form rather than divide them, reaffirming the astonishing universal power of music.
Enjoy even more @ PAPA DJ MC
Article edited by Gianmaria Garofalo