How was 2019 for you?
Rocky Valente: It has been the most amazing creative year in my life where I truly understood that we can create our own reality. It was also the most too, with my first release under the name Rocky Valente, my Rebirth EP (Elevate) which was in the top 3 techno releases on Beatport within five days. It was a proper pinch me moment! I played in amazing locations with amazing people for amazing crowds. I learned a lot about myself and my dreams, and more about how I want to prepare my kids for the world. I laughed a lot and cried a bit. It was a very, very special year.
Highlights?
My Rebirth EP. Seeing the work not just of the last months but to be honest the work of my last ten years inspiring people to listen, play and dance. Also not just the big festivals in front of thousands, but the special intimate parties, too. I did with Be-at.Tv in a kitchen in Lisbon that went viral which was amazing, and a live stream I did on a boat in Amsterdam. This year, I wanted to put my soul into everything I was doing, With these streams, people who can’t always go out can still watch a DJ playing in another part of the world and imagine they are there. I believe that the concept of DJing will change; virtual reality will be there soon and I want to be part of it!
Lowlights?
My grandfather passed away a few months ago. He was an amazing person and very important to me. I love him, and I always will. I hope he is proud of me like he always was.
Song of the year?
I’m going to choose something not out of the techno box. I will say Madonna’s “Looking For Mercy.” I grew up listening to Madonna, and this year I’ve been lucky enough to work with one of her guitarists, Portuguese musician Gaspar Varela. I love the lyrics. We are all looking for mercy and Love. Madonna has achieved so much as an artist. I respect her and admire her for how crazy she was, and how she did fight against so much both as an artist and a woman.
What’s your New Year’s resolution?
Learn even more about music, about people, and about how to connect better with my fans. Free my creative soul even more, and be happy with the simple things in life. Oh, and go back to riding horses.