Camilo Franco felt the attraction of music when he was just a kid. Born in a family of musicians, the Hip-hop DJs had fascinated him since his childhood. As time went by, Camilo realised how powerful beats were and their ability to control emotions and provoke happiness. Many years and many awards later, the Spanish-Colombian artist has reached the elite: apart from being a resident DJ at Space Ibiza, Camilo leads Space Entertainment's Space Ibiza On Tour and Ibiza Calling tours.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
For those that still don’t know you, how would you define yourself as a DJ?
I’m a DJ with a good technique and musical culture which likes to take people on a musical journey and make them shout.
As an artist, do you feel more comfortable in the booth or in the studio?
Actually, I feel good at both sides, although I’ve been at the booth for longer and I feel more confident there.
Do you prefer to play in festivals or clubs? Why?
In both places. The sensations are different… clubs are more intimate, there’s a better connection with the crowd, but the craziness at the festivals when so many people shout and jump… it’s unexplainable.
As a privileged observer of the clubbing world, which tendencies would you highlight this year in club music?
I perceive a greater presence of Pop mixed with electronic music but with a very good taste, as well as new trends such as Indie Dance which make people crazy. Also, Deep House and House are back in style and I really appreciate that.
What have you produced lately – and what should we expect to come soon?
I’ve just released a new track, Pondo, with the Toolroom label. It has been included in the Toolroom Miami 2014 compilation and it has had very good criticism. Also, I’ve released I Got, with Toolroom as well: it has reached the Top-100 at Beatport and I think it’s a perfect track for the summer. Furthermore, I’m working on two more projects at the studio and I expect them to be finished soon.
ABOUT SPACE IBIZA ON TOUR
You have been the Space Ibiza On Tour resident during the winter months. Which experience has been more shocking?
¡The Space Ibiza On Tour set at Zouk Singapore! What an amazing club, brilliant people, perfect sound… I felt in love with the place.
You have travelled around the world with Space Ibiza On Tour. Which crowd have you had a better connection with?
I felt really well at Cape City, in South Africa. A place which will stay in my memories for very long, with enthusiastic, marvelous people. A great, great experience.
Which artists have you felt a greater connection with?
With Roger Sanchez: he’s not just a super-artist and a brilliant professional, but also a great guy. Also, I feel a fantastic connection with Danny Marquez: I’ve known him for many years and that has helped us develop a good chemistry… and we have a lot of fun playing together! [laughs]
Which city and club have you enjoyed more - and why?
As I said before, Zouk Singapore. For its sound system, the energy of its people, the staff… an unbelievable event which really impressed me. And it was also very funny!
ABOUT SPACE IBIZA
You will soon begin a new season as an Ibiza Calling resident at Space Ibiza. What do you most like of the Platja d’en Bossa club?
I like the crowd, the club in itself… I just like to play there! The sound system, the booth, the guys I find there every summer… it’s a bunch of things which make me feel at home.
What do you expect of the coming season?
I expect a full dance floor every time I play at Space Ibiza, new fans and followers… and meeting a whole lot of people!
Espero mucha gente cada vez que pinche en Space Ibiza, nuevos adeptos y nuevos seguidores, además de conocer mucha gente nueva interesante.
Which sounds do you think will be more successful this summer?
On the one hand, EDM for younger people which look for more comercial stuff; on the other, Deep House, which is increasingly popular. Its growth is surprisingly (and pleasantly) fast.
And personally, which surprises have you prepared for the Space Ibiza audience?
Great music and some personal edits, some presents while I play… and a lot of happiness, which is what we all look for through music.
QUESTIONNAIRE
An anthem for the summer.
Doubtlessly, I Got, by some guy called Camilo Franco! [smiles]
Five tracks you always have in your suitcase.
Sky and Sand, by Paul and Fritz Kalkbrenner; Man With the Red Face, by Mark Knight & Funkagenda; I Feel Love, by Donna Summer; Midnight City by M83; and Good Life, by Inner City.
Your favorite classic track.
I Feel Love, by Donna Summer.
Your favorite DJ.
I have no favorite one, actually. I like many depending on the style.
Your favorite producer.
I know many with fantastic skills, but personally I really like René Amesz. I’ve had the chance to work with him and I can tell you his work is absolutely exceptional.
¿Vinyl or digital?
Nowadays, digital. It offers a series of advantages which I really appreciate.
Your favorite place in Ibiza.
Las Puertas del Cielo, at Sant Antoni de Portmany. It’s simply an astounding place.
Your favorite club in the world (apart from Space Ibiza!).
CDLC Barcelona.