Prest
Fernando Duthoy became a permanent fixture in Playa Del Carmen’s already bustling electronic music scene back in 2008 and quickly caught the attention of local promoters. With a keen ear for selecting and programing mixes and a style that airs neat and authentic house music, he became a regular behind the decks at popular venues such as Canibal Royal and Mamita’s Beach Club where he’s shared the stage with acts like Art Department, Den Ishu and Climbers.
Fresh of the plane from his second tour of Mexico in 2015, we got a chance to hear him spin at the local music temple La Santanera and boy was he laying down some grooves. Being the nice guy he is, Fernando was happy to put together this mix for us and show us why he is a true Hometown Hero in a packed nightlife scene in the Caribbean. Dive in and enjoy some proper tunes–and have a holiday season full of love and house music!
Hometown Heroes: Fernando Duthoy from Playa Del Carmen
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Interview with Fernando Duthoy
First off, where are you from and where do you live?
I was born in Chihuahua but I moved to Monterrey at the age of five and stayed there almost all my life. Now i’m living in Playa Del Carmen and in a couple of months it will be 6 years that I’ve lived here.
What are some differences between Monterrey and Playa del Carmen?
Well Monterrey has a big city vibe so its kind of tricky, I guess it depends where you go and what you’re looking for. The Playa vibe you have to experience for your self. Every day is fun and you’re surrounded with people from many different countries and cultures.
How was this year for you?
This year was huge for me. I went on a tour of the entire country twice, which came with many new experiences. I got a dream residency at one of the best clubs in Mexico (La Santanera) and some other news that I can’t share just yet.
When did house music become a big part of your life and how has your taste evolved?
It was when I was 16/17 I guess. Monterrey was a place where big Electronic events were taking place. Names like Paul Van Dyk, Tiesto, Deep Dish and Sasha were popular. One day I decided to look deeper into the scene and I found artists like Hernan Cattaneo, Satoshi Toomie and James Zabiela, and so that was the beginning of the love affair for me.
I always look for music with lots of groove, soul & feeling in it. From house to techno, from electronica to disco. Here in Playa I’m among many great djs and artists which I learn a lot from. I have many influences and am always evolving.
Residencies?
La Santanera & Canibal Royal. And a monthly residency in a little piece of heaven called Be Tulum.
Who are your go-to artists at the moment?
I would definitely say Purple Disco Machine. Even though I don’t always play this type of music at my gigs, this guy brought the funk in a real unique and housey way.. an absolute master.
Memorable gigs & Dream gig?
This is a tough one, every gig has something special and unique to it. The anniversary of La Santanera this year was definitely a memorable one. I got scheduled to play on the terrace at 3:00am which is the closing set. The place was packed, the vibe was unbelievable. It was one of those nights that everything just came together to create an experience that words can’t describe.
Also a special mention goes out to the guys from Etiquette in Morelia. They always had the most special parties in town. Definitely one of the best ones was when I played on the rooftop of a historical building in front of one of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever seen in my life.
Dream gigs would be Harpop in Juarez / Stereo in Montreal / Watergate in Berlin
Where do you see the dance music scene headed in Playa Del Carmen?
Playa del Carmen is well known for it’s electronic music scene, from The BPM Festival to EDM events. Honestly it seems it’s unstoppable. Dance music is a vital part of what Playa del Carmen nightlife is about. Right now it’s getting bigger and bigger in many ways, underground electronic music is becoming more popular, so there are many new places bringing more and more events to this spot in the world.
Tell us about your mix…
This mix includes tracks I have been playing during the last couple of months and also has 3 edits I recently finished… Groovy-house & big bass… that’s how I would describe it.
Drink of choice…
I will always say yes to a Beer.
Cheers!
Connect with Fernando Duthoy
Facebook | Soundcloud
– Prest
Preston Ernest
Senior Editor
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