Over the last years Latin America has been providing the dance music world with some of the most consistent, versatile and talented artists out there. From "Hernan Cattaneo" to "Heatbeat" and "KhoMha", all of them attain the raw talent, motivation and love for the music they played. No surprise they all elevated themselves in the dance music cosmos and continue the gradual ascent to further success! Another talented artist to emerge onto the aforementioned scene comes to us from Colombia.
Steven Rengifo is known in the world of dance music under his artist name "Steve Dekay". A producer of undeniable talent, Steve has found success in the field under his own brand name and his alter ego "Skender", one suited for the darker, techier sound he has ushered into the world. His creations have found a home on esteemed labels such as "Critical State", "Universal Nation", "Who's Afraid Of 138?", "Suanda", "Future Sound Of Egypt" and "Coldharbour Recordings" among many others. An artist who lives for his craft and continues to push the boundaries of his sound, a fact that can easily be seen in his body of work and pesky bootlegs of favorite tracks of yesteryear. Aside from his production abilities, Steve has conquered the populous' hearts while gaining a loyal following over the years as a prominent DJ as well. His terrific past performances lead him to a wondrous European tour in 2023 through some of clubland's finest landmarks such as "Ibiza", "Prague", "Madrid" and "Zurich".
Following his career over the years, it was only natural that I would like to have the honor to conduct an exclusive interview with him for "MusicTalk15". Fate intervened and I was delighted to not only make an imminent to "Prague" in "The Czech Republic", a city of amazing architecture and stunning beauty, but to also witness the magician in action at "Radost FX" for the mighty "TranceNation Reloaded!" So here it is, the interview I have been promising you, exclusively for your reading pleasure! Thanks for everything man!
Question 1: How did you first discover the wonderful world of dance music and what was the key factor that got you hooked?
I discovered the world of dance music when I was a kid, I remember I liked to dance with my brother, jumping in our room listening to those Trance classics.
The most beautiful thing I like of this music is the melody, it is everything!
Question 2: You certainly have a unique artist name. Could you please share the story behind its inception?
"Steve Dekay" is a project I started in 2014 approximately, all my music skills are completely empyrical. I remember I watched a lot of tutorials and read some forums about how to make dance music. So in 2015 was when I started this project professionally and focused in Trance and Progressive music.
Actually I'm working on Techno music too, using some Trance elements, like melodies etc.
Question 3: You have been working in the studio feverishly, producing loads of new music. What inspires you to create such special tracks and are any of them inspired by real life events or personal experiences?
The inspiration comes from random moments in my life, it could be by listening to other genres, a movie etc. But it also comes from some personal experiences like visiting new cities or countries, meeting new cultures etc.
Question 4: We certainly are aware of your tremendous productions under your main artist name. Really been loving your work under your alter ego “Skender” as well. What is the significance behind it and what led you to conjure up an alias?
As I said before, under "Steve Dekay" I make Trance music, but actually I'm working on more Techno tunes, that's the reason I wanted to create a new alias focused like 'in a dark side' of dance music, in this case with Techno, Melodic Techno. I like Techno very melodic but also dark and harder too. That's what I'm currently working on.
Question 5: You recently came back from your first European tour which included several gigs in Ibiza, Madrid and Prague amongst others. How did you enjoy the whole process and experience and how did it feel to connect with your fans from all over the world?
These experiences were really GREAT! Because I met new people, new places, new cultures and the most important thing, I enjoyed my music with different crowds, every crowd with its passion for music, so every crowd is different and very special, so it's something that will surely remain in my memories.
Question 6: Speaking of recent events your explosive performance in Prague for “TranceNation Reloaded” was a huge success! As one being there I certainly witnessed the crowd loving it and devouring tune after tune. How did you enjoy the event and the marvelous city of Prague in general?
That event was really good! I love the 'intimate' clubs where you are very close to the fans, where you can feel that heat from the crowd, so yes it was really good!
And the city, wow, it's just beautiful! I hope to be there again soon!
Question 7: One of the tunes that stood out for me and the rest of the audience during your performance at “TranceNation” was your remix of the beloved tune “Played-A-Live” by “Safri-Duo”. Are there any plans for an official release in the near future?
I love that remix, it got a really good reaction every place I played this tune and yeah I'm working to release it as an official release soon! :D
Question 8: The latest fashion over the last years is reinventing classic tunes from the distant past. Is there a certain track or tracks that you would like to remix to your heart’s content and for what reason?
There are some classic tracks I always wanted to make my own remix of, like "Home" by "Paul van Dyk & Johnny McDaid", this track is pure gold! The melody, the drums, the vocals! It's just a beautiful tune!
Question 9: Aside from your musical interests do you perhaps have any hobbies or favorite pass times?
I'm a football lover haha so yeah I like watching it and playing it too and also working out.
Question 10: Are you a fan of a specific movie or series? If so have you ever considered remixing music from it or creating a track in tribute to it?
I like series about thriller, time travel and about the universe, I'm a big fan of the movies or series and I want to create my own version of 'Interstellar' the main theme, this melody is epic, one of the best melodies I've ever heard!
Question 11: Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new cities, experiencing the culture and all? Which has been your favorite destination so far and where would you like to visit next?
Very difficult to choose to be honest. But Ibiza is magic, every place is beautiful and the connection with music is really great!
I'd like to visit Amsterdam and the UK, to make my debut there would be really good! But there are more places I'd like to play.
Question 12: What surprises can we expect from you in the near future that you would like to share with us?
Good music! More Trance music, vocal Trance, Melodic Techno and dark-harder Techno :D haha
