Daniel & Mario Zetter
Can you introduce yourself to our audience?
My name is Mario Zetter, born in Mexico City on December 22, 1973. I am a Mexican DJ and music producer specializing in Afro House, Downtempo, and Organic House, with 37 years of experience in the music industry.
I started my DJ career in 1988, playing 80s music in clubs. By 1991, I was deeply influenced by New Beat, House, Acid House, Industrial, and Techno, and I established myself under the alias Plaztiko. Over the years, I continued evolving musically, and in 2013, I adopted the name Zetter, shifting towards Progressive House and performing at various festivals and clubs across Mexico.
By 2017, I felt the need for a new musical direction and transitioned into Downtempo and Organic House. This change allowed me to expand my sound globally, incorporating influences from my extensive experience and the generational evolution of electronic music.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music, specifically in electronic genres?
Music was always present in my home while growing up. Even children’s movies were played on records, which fascinated me—I was amazed at how a simple record could create something as beautiful as music. My passion for music grew as I constantly listened to it, and when I discovered mixed radio programs, I was captivated. That was the moment I knew I wanted to pursue a career as a DJ.
How would you describe your style and sound? What sets you apart as an artist?
My sound is a fusion of Afro House with organic elements. I strive to create an immersive experience that blends tribal rhythms with deep, atmospheric sounds, giving each track a unique energy.
Tell us about your latest release. What’s the story or inspiration behind it?
My latest release, Shambala, is a track where I wanted to capture the essence of Organic House while incorporating mystical influences from the Middle East.
Additionally, I am releasing a new EP, Baila Toda La Noche, which holds deep personal significance as I created it in collaboration with my son, Daniel Zetter. This project represents a transformation in my sound, fusing classic Organic House with Afro House rhythms.
The EP consists of three tracks:
- Toda La Noche – A dancefloor-ready track blending Afro House beats, synthesizers, and atmospheric elements.
- Baila – A track with organic atmospheres, sweet pianos, and African vocals, creating a unique Afro House groove.
- Bajo el Sol – A warm, uplifting Afro House track that transports listeners to a sunny beach, enriched with wind instruments and organic textures.
Can you walk us through the creative process behind this project?
The creative process started with finding new rhythms that my son, Daniel, was excited about. From there, we focused on creating three interconnected tracks. We began with the melodies and arrangements, then added lyrics and vocals. The EP’s title and track names were carefully chosen to reflect the idea of dancing all night and under the sun.
How does this release differ from your previous work?
This EP represents a completely new direction for me. While my previous release, Shambala, was rooted in classic Organic House, this project incorporates modern Afro House influences, giving it a fresh and contemporary feel.
What do you think is the biggest challenge for artists in the electronic music industry today?
The electronic music industry has evolved significantly. Years ago, it was appreciated by a niche audience, but today it has exploded into mainstream culture. With this growth, more people aspire to be DJs and producers, which has increased competition.
The challenge for artists is to stand out by being original, staying ahead of musical and technological trends, and constantly innovating. Creativity and persistence are key to making an impact in the industry.
What role do events, collaborations, and labels play in shaping your career?
Events are crucial for an artist because they allow people to experience our work in a live setting, where music is felt at its deepest level. However, collaborations and label partnerships are just as important.
Our collaboration with Cafe De Anatolia, our home label, has played a significant role in expanding our audience. The label provides a platform that helps us reach listeners who appreciate this type of music, allowing us to connect with a global audience.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists looking to break into the scene?
Being just a DJ or producer is no longer enough. It’s essential to study music theory, learn to play instruments, and understand the deeper aspects of sound production.
Most importantly, never give up. Success in music requires patience, passion, and perseverance. Keep evolving, practice relentlessly, and stay true to your unique artistic vision.
What can your fans expect next?
We are currently working on collaborations with other artists, remixes, and preparing for a new tour. There’s a lot of exciting music in the works, and we can’t wait to share it with the world!
“Baila Toda La Noche” by Zetter & Daniel Zetter released on 18.02.2025 via Cafe De Anatolia