Today we’d like to introduce you to Azarelle.
Hi Azarelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up on 90’s house with a big emphasis on freestyle because of my parents and what was played in my house nonstop. The genre of house and its heartbeat became so familiar to me without even realizing. The sound really shaped me growing up and I knew I wanted to be involved with it growing up long before I knew what a DJ even was; But house music was already in my environment, and the pulse of it shaped what I connected with and who I became.
As I got older, every time I heard house, explored it, or experimented with it, something in me clicked. The rush grew, the gigs kept coming and the crowds got bigger. For me it hit a point that it stopped feeling like a choice and started feeling like freedom and direction; like this was where I am meant to go. And to that I’ll always be grateful.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s never been a smooth road in all honesty, and I don’t think it ever will be. Is there some calm moments in time when everything seems like it’s going right? absolutely. But that is the previous work I put in paying off- I don’t necessarily believe in the smooth road. I’ve come to learn that if the road is smooth then I am too comfortable and there is more work to be done than I think.
On the opposite end, I often times I sit and I force myself to reflect on where I started just to remind myself where I’m going. To give myself grace when I look at where I am, because I’ve never had a mentor or help, I’ve truly done this alone and that has never been easy. However, I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
I’ve had to teach myself (time and time again) that being uncomfortable is what makes me strong, what keeps me dangerous, because when I’m under pressure is when I work the best, when my best ideas come to light. Being uncomfortable makes you adaptable and that’s how you win. By keeping on your toes and staying true to yourself and the art you want to leave behind.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am best known for bringing in a fresh minimal tech house sound that introduces an unmistakable west coast Latin flair. Creating a sound and brand that feels both familiar and unexpected. It’s what people look for when they come to hear AZARELLE: a blend of underground house with my own cultural pulse woven through it. Latin-infused edge to minimal tech house.
This has really been important to me in the recent years because coming from San Diego, the underground tech and minimal scene Is underrepresented, especially by women. My goal is to bring something new to the scene, something disruptive but also safe enough where you can feel free on my dance floor. My rhythm and attitude really load the gun and my creativity and curation pulls the trigger.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Just being yourself. There’s a lot of extra noise these days especially with social media, its so easy to get caught up in the. “should be doing” but thats not how you stand out. Ive learned your weaknesses can be your greatest strengths and te authenticity is one of the best attributes you can have- especially in a cookie cutter age.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azarelle.us
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@azarelleshouse
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/azarelle-rozmar
