Rei Calero Joins the Future Stars Series
Rei Calero is a Puerto Rican DJ and music producer whose artistic journey bridges traditional musical roots with the expansive world of electronic music. With formal training from prestigious institutions like the Puerto Rico Conservatory and Berklee, Rei brings a deep understanding of music theory and a passion for experimentation. His unique sound is shaped by the contrasting influences of San Juan's urban pulse and Aguadilla's laid-back island atmosphere. Balancing technical prowess with emotional depth, Rei has gained recognition for his dynamic sets, and his relationship with vinyl remains a vital aspect of his DJing and production style. Drawing inspiration from Puerto Rico’s rich culture, nature, and even surfing, he continues to push the boundaries of electronic music while staying connected to the underground scene. Aside from doing a mix for us, we also had a chat with Rei recently as per below...
What challenges did you face in transitioning from a traditional music background to electronic music production?
It was overwhelming coming from the simplicity of a traditional background to endless possibilities in electronic music. Dominating the DAW, choosing a direction, evolving that style, and lots of trial and error were all part of the journey. Even today, I still feel the sky is the limit with electronic music.
How has Puerto Rico’s culture influenced your musical identity as a DJ and producer?
I’ve had the chance to witness events that opened my eyes to electronic music. Working with different local genres has helped me apply that knowledge to producing. I've learned to curate how I manage relationships and how I identify myself, personally and musically, as an artist coming from such a diverse music scene and culture.
How do you balance the technical aspects of music production with maintaining emotional depth in your tracks?
The process of creating is usually guided by the emotional muse of the moment, whether it’s the energy or feeling of the track. If I need to get technical, I usually save that for later, so I don’t disrupt the flow and can focus on building the main concept and direction first.
In what ways do your experiences in both San Juan and Aguadilla shape your approach to music?
San Juan is grind time, and Aguadilla is island time. The urban hustle of the city versus the lifestyle of a more rural place is a yin and yang. It’s hard to have one without the other. That balance keeps me engaged physically, mentally, and creatively when making music.
Can you tell us more about your relationship with vinyl and how it has impacted your DJing and production style?
I played my first gig with records and made it a priority to learn vinyl, paying homage to and respecting the craft of DJs before my generation. Some of my favorite music is vinyl-only, and though I haven’t released on vinyl yet, when I do, I want to make sure it’s something special and different.
What role do you think formal music education, like your time at the Conservatory and Berklee, plays in the evolution of electronic music?
Formal education has helped with things like music theory and ear training, especially when it comes to adjusting pitch and creating harmony. It’s allowed me to combine the organic textures and effects from traditional music with electronic elements, evolving my sound.
What is the most valuable lesson you've learned from studying jazz and funk that you apply to your electronic music?
Jazz is all about breaking the rules and experimenting, keeping things interesting. Funk, on the other hand, has taught me about building grooves and using the pockets and spaces in music to create rhythm. Both have deeply influenced my approach to electronic music.

What has been the most surprising moment in your journey as a DJ and producer?
Bridging gaps, sharing ideas, and building projects with artists I’ve admired has been incredibly special. Playing events with these artists and getting to know them on a personal level is fulfilling. There’s potential for future collaborations with some of them.
How do you approach creating a set for a major event compared to a smaller, more intimate venue?
It’s relative. If I’m opening for a DJ, I set the vibe accordingly. For larger events, it’s often easier to engage the crowd because human connection is contagious in those environments. For smaller, more intimate venues, I aim to connect on a personal level.
What advice would you give to aspiring producers trying to develop their unique sound?
Identify which style of music resonates with you most and emulate it while applying your own personal touch. Develop a productive workflow, experiment, and challenge the ordinary. Embrace who you are, and everything else will fall into place.
Do you have a favorite piece of equipment or software you can't live without when producing music?
Omnisphere 100%. I could probably live without it, but it simplifies a lot.
How does your connection to nature and surfing influence your creative flow when making music?
Spending time in nature and surfing quiets my mind and sharpens my focus, making my creative process more productive. It’s refreshing to work this way.
How do you approach layering different instruments and electronic elements in your tracks to achieve that organic feel?
I’ve found software instruments that blend well with electronic music, and I use Ableton’s groove function to add an organic swing. Adding automation helps evolve the track further.
What do you think is the most exciting trend currently happening in the electronic music scene?
I respect anyone who promotes underground artists and events based solely on the music and concept, especially those who go against trends. Berlin’s scene feels genuine, and there’s a lot of space for new artists, particularly in minimal music.
How do you stay connected to the underground music scene while working on major projects and releases?
I try to collaborate with artists who align with my underground sound, even when working on more mainstream projects. I’ve also worked on commercial projects but keep those separate from my underground identity.
Is there a dream collaboration or remix that you would love to do in the future?
Collaborations usually come about through social interactions or communication with labels. I have many artists I’d love to work with, but it’s easier to mention labels that encompass a sound I enjoy, like Micronica, Duboka, and Telum, among others.
What challenges do you think underground electronic music artists face today, and how can the community support them?
Social media is a double-edged sword. The community can help by focusing more on the music and less on the social media personas. Supporting local events and discovering new artists beyond the mainstream hype is crucial.
How do you see your music evolving in the next few years, both in terms of style and collaborations?
I’m challenging my style to align with the labels I want to release on while staying true to my taste. I see my music evolving towards a more rolling, groovy, and hypnotic dance floor-oriented sound. Collaborations will continue to evolve depending on the opportunities that come my way.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes stories or moments that have deeply impacted your career so far?
Sending music has expanded my opportunities for gigs and collaborations. People like Carlos Rivera and Nicolas Duvoisin have helped me a lot internationally. I’ve also worked with Carlos on his label Fast Lane, helping with EP releases and logistical details.
What are your personal goals outside of music, and how do they influence your work in the electronic scene?
I’m involved in construction project management and real estate development. My goal is to create passive income in the US and Europe so I can travel and work on music across both regions.
Before we go, tell us a bit more about the mix you’ve done for us. What was your thinking behind it? Was there a particular theme you went for? How did you decide on the tracks?
Mixes are tricky because I always want to include certain tracks, but sometimes they don’t align. For this mix, I aimed for a clubby, minimal, and atmospheric vibe with a bit of everything in between. I hope you enjoy it! Thanks again for the opportunity to collaborate!
Keep up with Rei Calero on Soundcloud and Instagram