A catch-up with Venice DJ, Gladis...

Venice-born producer/DJ Gladis has been deeply influenced by the unique culture and vibrant atmosphere of her home city, where her passion for electronic music began to take shape. Surrounded by iconic clubs and events that attracted global house and techno DJs, she honed her craft early on through collaborations with local DJ friends. Since launching her career in 2009, Gladis has traveled to renowned musical hubs like Barcelona, London, Berlin, and Ibiza, each city leaving a distinct mark on her sound and approach. Known for blending deep house and techno influences, her sets and productions are shaped by her appreciation for minimalistic styles, notably inspired by her dance music hero, Ricardo Villalobos. 

Gladis’ commitment to growth and experimentation continues with her recent collaboration with the innovative Rockets Audio label and ongoing studio projects. Through her music, whether in a club or a podcast, she aims to create a connection with her audience, sparking joy and appreciation. We caught up with her recently to learn a bit more about what she’s been up to, as well as her upcoming plans…

Growing up in Venice, how did the city's unique culture and atmosphere influence your early passion for electronic music?

I feel very lucky, Venice is a unique and wonderful city. When I started my music career, there were several cool events and clubs in my area that hosted the best house and techno DJs from the global scene. I learned a lot in those years; it was fundamental for me. It is thanks to this and also the connection, comparison, and collaboration with some DJ friends in my area that my passion for electronic music developed.

Your journey has taken you to iconic cities like Barcelona, London, Berlin, and Ibiza. How did each of these places shape your sound and approach to music?

Each of these cities, although all different from each other, has made me grow in some way. I think that every trip teaches something; they are experiences that make me grow both musically and personally.

Have you been back to Ibiza in recent years? Is it still as magical as it ever was?

This year, I wasn’t there. However, Ibiza is always Ibiza—it has changed over the years, but its atmosphere is always magical.

Rockets Audio is known for its cutting-edge releases. How did your collaboration with them come about, and what has the experience been like working with such an innovative label?

Rockets Audio is a label I’ve been following for a while; they made really cool releases, featuring fresh and talented artists. I simply proposed some of my tracks, and they liked them. I’m glad I released my music on their label.

Who are some of your dance music heroes, and how have they influenced your work both as a DJ and a producer?

Ricardo Villalobos has always been my model of inspiration, both as a DJ and producer. His sound has influenced my productions a lot, and I always have a minimal tendency in my work.

Mixes and podcasts are a big part of how DJs connect with their audience outside of the club. How do you approach creating a mix or podcast, and what do you hope listeners take away from them?

When creating a podcast, I usually use some unreleased tracks, promos, and tracks that I like at that particular moment. Not necessarily only dance tracks; I like to mix different genres. For me, there is nothing more beautiful than being able to share the music I love with my listeners, even outside the club.

You've played in a variety of clubs and festivals around the worid. How does the energy of a venue or crowd influence your performance?

In my opinion there is nothing more beautiful than creating a connection between me and the audience, despite this I am always focused on what I'm doing, at the same time seeing the crowd dancing and having fun gives me a crazy charge.

With the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, how do you stay inspired and continue to push your creative boundaries?

Travel, be curious, keep up, go to parties, explore, and study—all of these help provide continuous stimuli.

As someone who has been in the industry since 2009, how have you seen the electronic music scene change, both in Venice and globally?

Everything has changed, not only the musical trends, but also the way of working in general, especially due to technological evolution.

Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that you're particularly excited about?

I have a lot of things going on: new music, and more or less developed projects. I’m working a lot in the studio and will update you very soon!

For those who are just discovering your music, what do you hope they feel or experience when they listen to one of your sets or productions?

An artist always wants to communicate something through their music. It’s very important for me that the feedback from this communication is seeing the audience having fun and appreciating what I’m playing. For me, this is crucial because it means you’re making people happy, and you’re doing your job well.

Keep up with Gladis on Soundcloud and Instagram