It is always a pleasure to see someone perform with as much affinity and dedication to dance music as Vintage Culture. Although, this may narrow down that range of artists to just Vintage Culture himself. Stemming from the innovative mind of Lukas Ruiz, this DJ-producer hybrid has become a leading act in the EDM space over the last decade. Hailing from his home country of Brazil, Vintage Culture has become an icon for the house and techno-loving nation.
Renowned for his seamless mixing abilities, Vintage Culture has performed mind-bending sets at the hottest venues on the planet, from nightclubs in Ibiza to the main stage at Ultra. Additionally, he has released a variety of chart-topping singles, such as his recent infectious hits of “Alive” and “Tina”. Now, embarking on the next chapter in his musical journey, Vintage Culture has teamed up with electronic music and lifestyle brand BOMA. Together, they have launched their new immersive event series: Born Of Music Addiction. We were fortunate enough to talk with Vintage Culture about this project, his 2023 singles, and more.
Born Of Music Addiction is a thrilling new experience that you have teamed up with BOMA to launch. What initially drew you to BOMA in terms of the energy it delivers to its audience? What similarities do you see between your and BOMA’s identities?
It’s all about our shared passion for music and the arts. We’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We share a commitment to innovation and a desire to create unique and unforgettable experiences. We strive for this goal. I’m personally curating the artists line-up of BOMA. I began this movable festival as a way of introducing fans around the world to new exciting artists combined with established popular artists – often performing side-by-side.
The similarities between my solo performances and the Born of Music Addiction event would have to be my own musical taste. I select which artists are performing and construct the vibe of BOMA.
You recently stated in an interview that, “Born Of Music Addiction is who I am, it’s what I am, and what will guide us to expand this brand worldwide.” What is your earliest memory that drove your addiction to music?
Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories in a way that few other art forms can. Music can transport us to different times and places. It can help us connect with ourselves and others on a profound level. For me, music represents hope. Growing up in a small town, music was more than a symbol of escape. It was a true means of escape.
Hearing the electronic sounds of New Order or Depeche Mode for the first time was a life-changing experience. These artists combined real songs and emotional vocals with beautiful instrumental tracks. Their songs painted such an illustrious sonic landscape. This music had a big influence on my own songwriting. Music reminded me that there was a big world out there ready to explore.
How do you plan to spread Born Of Music Addiction on a global scale?
We’re not under any time constraints in building BOMA. We’ll move at our own pace without pressure from the outside world. We’re going to do this right. My idea is to first reach other people who share this passion for music, songs, and technology. We’ll bring our audience a unique experience with the most creative musicians in electronic music today.
What makes the combination of your musical prowess and BOMA’s multimedia presence so effective for this project?
Together, our goal is to create a multisensory experience that is truly unique. My BOMA team and I are passionate about our art form. Without that passion and emotion, the technology alone would be a hollow experience. The combination of emotional, exciting music with a multimedia presence can be extremely powerful. By fusing my own musical taste and innovation with BOMA’s multimedia presence, the event can deliver an immersive experience. And remember, at the heart of this experience is FUN. We want the audience to have a great time.
In your latest collab “Tina”, with Bhaskar, Meca, and The Vic, what is your intended effect of the stand-alone vocals before the second drop on the audience? How were you able to delicately layer the vocal with effects and synths for a dramatic build leading into the drop?
Meca and Bhaskar are good friends. We all live within 10 minutes of each other in Sao Paulo. So, collaborating on this great song was really a labor of love. It was an enjoyable process and I’m very happy with the results. In the studio, I isolated the lead vocal and loved the clarity of the singer. It’s as if the singer is telling a story to his friends. I wanted this to be clear and upfront. We gradually built up the track around this without getting in the way of the vocals, but also increasing the tension in the track.
In your opinion, why do The Vic’s lyrics and the tonality of his voice match up so well with the electrifying bassline in “Tina”?
I believe it’s the contrast between how relaxed The Vic’s performance is with the intensity of the instrumental that make the track work so well. When the drop arrives, the fans have already heard a funny, engaging story that they can relate to… and they’re ready to jump. The Vic really did outstanding work on this song. He’s an artist to watch for in 2023.
You have a bunch of b2b sets during MMW, such as at Ultra with Dom Dolla. What aspects do you love the most about performing b2bs with different DJs?
I only do back-to-back sets with other DJs that I admire and respect. I’m already a fan of their work before we walk on stage. During these sets, I’m engaged in my own performance, but also listening and enjoying their show like a fan in the audience would. When you’re sharing the stage with another DJ, the energy just multiplies. You’re bouncing ideas off each other, and creating an atmosphere that’s unique to that performance. It’s definitely a rush of adrenaline when it goes well.
How do you execute a b2b set in a way that showcases both artists’ identities? Is there a method to make sure each artist gets an even amount of play time?
Generally, it is instinctual. But if we’re appearing at a well organized big festival such as Ultra, we’ll have an idea of what we’re going to play. We’ll select tracks that compliment one another and talk about the show in advance. At the same time, we also leave space for spontaneity and creativity during the show.
How does yours and Elderbrook’s signature production styles balance each other out in “Talk It Over”? What were the highlights of working with him on this single?
Elderbrook’s unique vocal style and songwriting skills always bring a fresh perspective. He has such a strong sense of melody, which is very important to my music. Collaborating with Elderbrook’s different set of skills definitely makes our work special. His vocal phrasing and vocal timbre are instantly recognizable. Working with Alex is always a creatively rewarding experience.
What techniques do you use when planning out an extended set, specifically your previous ones at Universo Paralelo and AME Club? How do you cater each set to the music fans of the region and venue you are performing at?
The extended shows I perform give me a chance to experiment with new music. I can test tracks, try new ideas, and watch the audience’s reaction. Often, I debut new music and even make adjustments to the arrangement after playing. The audience has certainly influenced the arrangement of new, unreleased music. The music sets might vary related to the type of show, as opposed to the region or country.
During festivals, the artists are on a very strict schedule, down to the minute. These extended sets and after hours shows give me the freedom to be more relaxed and less pressurized. On stage, I’m more comfortable than anywhere else. I’m at my most decompressed and free state of mind. I can speak through my music and the communication with the fans feels effortless. There is nowhere else I’d rather be.
What sparked the idea for your recent track with Izzy Bizu, “If I Live Forever”? How does the song make you feel and what message do you see in its lyrics?
I was drawn to this top line by the sound of Izzy’s voice. Izzy’s voice has a one-of-a-kind, recognizable timbre. Izzy is young but has a voice with echoes of music history. She has a terrific vocal range, but also has the ability to deliver a gentle, intimate performance.
For me, the lyrics tell a story of having the opportunity to once again see someone we loved and cared about, and who we have lost in the past. It’s about having a second chance to say all the things we wanted to say, if we had the opportunity.
What element of sound design in “If I Live Forever” pushed you the most out of your comfort zone as an artist? How did you craft the higher-pitched chord progression during the chorus?
Building this production was centered around a very emotional, beautiful vocal. “If I Live Forever” is a sensitive song which requires a gentle approach. The instruments have to enhance the vocal performance and not get in the way. I intentionally left space in this song to let the music breathe.
What are the biggest goals that you have for Born Of Music Addiction and Vintage Culture in 2023? What are a few of your upcoming shows that you are really looking forward to, and why?
Born of Music Addiction ( BOMA ) was a sold out success during Miami Music Week. We were greeted by an energetic, enthusiastic audience that made this event a total pleasure. BOMA is growing organically. We’re taking this event from Brazil to North America and this summer to Ibiza.
We have shows planned in Texas and Colorado, with additional dates being planned in the USA and Europe; these will be announced soon. I’ve also announced a residency at Hi Ibiza this Summer and in Las Vegas with the Tao group. 2023 is going to be an exciting year of musical growth and non-stop touring. My record release schedule is almost complete for the entire year. And I may have a surprise for everyone in the fourth quarter with my long awaited debut album. More news about this is coming soon…
Raised in upstate New York, I was always a big fan of music but never really listened to electronic music. Within the first month of attending Florida State University and meeting some new friends, I was introduced to the rave scene. After seeing Ekali at my first show, I was instantly hooked. Since then, I have dived into every subgenre of electronic music, picked up DJing, and mixed for clubs and different entertainment events in Tallahassee. Once graduating with degrees in marketing and hospitality, I was hired for a sales position. However, I recently decided to leave my sales job to pursue my dream of working in the music industry. Currently, I run Magnetic Magazine's Melodic Techno Charts, along with my role as a PR and marketing specialist for different artists and labels. Some of my favorite artists are REZZ, Kyle Watson, TOBEHONEST, San Pacho, Josh Baker, HUGEL, ARTBAT, Vintage Culture, Ganja White Night, CamelPhat, Green Velvet, Jungle, Milky Chance, Paco Versailles, Franc Moody, and RÜFUS DU SOL. My favorite festivals are Hulaween (by far), EDC Orlando, and all the different venues during Miami Music Week. Outside of music, I love sports (especially hockey, soccer, tennis, basketball, and spike ball), going to the movies, working out, sushi, Chick-fil-A, food in general, and hanging with my dog Maui and my cat Loki. Feel free to reach out to me via my email or on IG, I love expanding my network of friends and business opportunities!
