La’Dell
Can you introduce yourself to our audience?
I’m La’Dell, a producer and DJ hailing from Brooklyn. My music journey began several years ago as a creative escape. What started with a simple DJ controller as an outlet to decompress from a demanding career quickly grew into a consuming passion. That initial spark has since evolved into a powerful creative pursuit – constantly working to refine and develop my sound into something distinctive and unique.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music, specifically in electronic genres?
The path to electronic music for me was a natural evolution. Growing up in Brooklyn, I was immersed in classic Motown, Hip-Hop, and R&B, which laid the foundation for my love of music. Later, my years working in the NYC nightlife scene exposed me deeply to electronic genres.
There were pivotal moments that shaped my sound — like a marathon night at a Diynamic showcase in Brooklyn in 2014, which introduced me to the underground scene, or seeing Black Coffee for the first time at Hï Ibiza, which further inspired my artistic direction.
In recent years, watching artists I once knew from my club-promoting days achieve global success also showed me what’s possible. For me, music has become more than just a career — it’s a calling. A perfect storm of life events drove me deeper into music, fulfilling my need to build something of my own. This path just feels right.
How would you describe your style and sound?
I’d describe my sound as an eclectic blend of cultural influences — melodic, groovy vibes, and lush rhythms. My goal is to create soundscapes that are both energetic and emotionally resonant. I want to take listeners on a journey and make tracks they can feel just as much as they can dance to.
ABOUT YOUR RELEASE
Tell us about your latest release.
My latest EP, Mwanzo, was crafted during a pivotal moment of personal and professional transition. I had reached a point where I knew music was the career and passion I had been searching for my entire life, and I’m determined not to take it for granted.
The project came together organically after I discovered a powerful vocal sample that now anchors the title track. I was instantly drawn to its energy. Only later did I discover the meaning of the word Mwanzo — “New Beginnings” in Swahili. It felt like a gift from the universe, confirming that I was on the right path.
What message or feeling do you want listeners to take away from this release?
I’m a deeply sensitive person, and I pour that emotion into my work. My hope is that listeners feel something profound when they hear this release. But more than anything, I want them to understand the message that it’s never too late for a new beginning.
If you’re afraid to take the step or it feels uncomfortable, that means you’re on the right track.
Can you walk us through the creative process behind this project?
This project was my way of escaping overwhelming global headlines and reconnecting with my identity and purpose. With so much bigotry, hate, and political division dominating the world, I channeled the energy of my ancestors into these Afro-House-inspired tracks, letting their spirit guide the sound.
I was visiting my family in Brooklyn during this time, and it provided the perfect backdrop to bring this EP to life.
How does this release differ from your previous work?
While passion and purpose run through all of my releases, Mwanzo marks a significant artistic and mental evolution. The confidence I carried from my previous career has finally found its full voice in my music after years of dedication.
This isn’t just another release; it represents a new approach to my craft. With each project, I push the boundaries of my sound, and I believe I’ve raised the bar with Mwanzo — a commitment I intend to carry forward.
INDUSTRY AND PERSONAL INSIGHTS
What do you think is the biggest challenge for artists in the electronic music industry today?
The biggest challenge today is the sheer level of competition, fueled by easy access to technology and knowledge. While these tools helped accelerate my own learning, they’ve also created an oversaturated market where thousands of tracks are released daily.
Another shift is the increased emphasis on branding and social media over the music itself. I remember my first rave — no phones, no cameras, just people immersed in the vibe. Thankfully, some DJs, venues, and events still hold on to that spirit — Stereo in Montreal being one of my favorites.
There’s also a distinction between artists, performers, and content creators. Each path is valid, but as individuals, we have to decide who we want to be.
Streaming platforms are incredible for exposure but not always a viable livelihood. Realizing this allowed me to use them strategically, focusing on building my brand while staying true to my artistry.
My philosophy is simple: it’s not supposed to be easy. Instead of complaining, I choose to maximize my limitations and create something only I can — something authentic.
What role do events, collaborations, or labels play in shaping your career?
Events, collaborations, and labels are crucial in building an audience and a community. I’ve been a huge fan of Cafe De Anatolia for years — they were on my target list since I first started producing. Their ethos, with its focus on Ethno House, aligns perfectly with my mission to infuse diverse global cultures into my productions.
Some of my favorite artists were discovered through their releases, and many went on to become globally touring DJs. Knowing this, I understood that working with Cafe De Anatolia would be a key step in achieving my own goals. This collaboration means more than exposure — it’s about becoming part of a global family that shares the same vision.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists looking to break into the scene?
Make a plan and stick to it. Don’t get distracted by what others are doing. Ignore the noise and focus on your own path — in music and in life.
Work on improving every single day. Don’t let unanswered emails or a lack of gigs discourage you. Find your community, collaborate, and most importantly, always trust your instincts.
What works for someone else might not be right for you. Create your own wave.
LOOKING AHEAD
What can your fans expect next?
(Are there upcoming releases, performances, or projects you’d like to share?)
My priority will always be honing my production skills, as I have a clear sonic goal in mind. At the same time, I’m shifting some focus back to DJing — the spark that originally pulled me into music.
I’m currently building partnerships across New England, with Rhode Island as my home base. I’m also working on long-term projects, including a festival in Germany (with its second edition coming in May 2026) and an album that will launch both my own label and a global event series called Sunday Scaries.
There’s a lot to do, but I’m in no rush — I’m enjoying every step of this journey.
La’Dell – Mwanzo EP
Release Date: September 25, 2025
Collaborators: Solo release