With a jaw-dropping 12 million followers on Instagram, 6 million on Facebook and another million on Twitter, Brazilian DJ Alok certainly has quite the social media following to show off his talented global digital influence. Today, Alok fans have another reason to rejoice as he releases two new tracks (Alok & Quintino – “Party Never Ends” and Meduza ft. Goodboys – “Piece Of Your Heart” -Alok Remix).
Alok has become one of the most prominent icons on the Brazilian scene, winning honors and awards, including ‘Best DJ in Brazil’ two consecutive times, and placing #13 in DJ Mag‘s annual Top 100 awards. Just last year, he became the only Brazilian to place on the Billboard Dance 100 list, is now signed on with Warner Music Group and has also been featured in Forbes‘ 30 Under 30 list. He will be performing in Los Angeles next month at Exchange LA.
We caught up recently with the Brazilian native, who was in Boston earlier this spring, to discuss his impressive road to success.
Photo Credit: Listen Up Music Promotion
You’re originally from Brazil and have been spinning music since you were 12. Tell us a little about the journey from where you came to where you are now.
It is so surreal to look back into those days. I was 11 years old when I started to practice and learn the techniques. Me and my brother Bhaskar started playing a psytrance b2b set and always needed a tutor to escort us while touring. Back then in Brazil, I remember telling my friends that my parents were electronic music DJ’s who actually made their living playing music and they used to look at me like I was not from this planet. I guess that tells us how much things have changed in a big way and we have actually gained recognition and respect as professionals.
When did you realize your career in music was headed to the next level?
There were many signals, but I strongly remember this time when I was on the other side of the planet in China. I heard “Hear Me Now” on the radio while I was in the taxi and coincidently the driver started whistling the melody all excited. That was simply fantastic, and I have kept that memory forever.
Who were some of your early influences in music?
Without a doubt: Prodigy and Chemical Brothers as the entrance to the electronic world. U2, Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix were also major influences back then and certainly Pink Floyd and their unique sound.
How has your style changed from Brazil to playing for an American audience?
Not a lot to be honest. My set is really similar within both Americas and I always like to play the kind of music that is getting popular in each region, whereas Asia and some other places require much more accurate crowd reading. All this is a way to connect me directly with the audience.
You have six million followers on Facebook and another 11 million on Instagram. Did you ever think you would have the successful social media reach that you now have?
I have never thought that I would actually be able to communicate with so many people in so many different corners of the world. It still blows my mind and also makes me feel really blessed to make my dreams come true while I share and spread my music and my soul.
