melendez: paving a legacy in music

The Music Man’s Unfiltered Perspective

INTERVIEW BY: EMILY ARAUZA

NOV 18th, 2024

“No matter how poppin’ or big you become, it can always be taken away. So be thankful, but know your worth” Melendez reflects. His words are a powerful reminder that success is fragile, but self-awareness and gratitude are key to enduring and leaving a lasting mark on the culture.

Known as a jack-of-all-trades in the music scene, Melendez has managed to make his presence felt across DJ booths, production rooms, and industry meetings. His hustle is evident, but he’s more than just a workhorse; he’s a visionary shaping what’s next.

For this conversation, I join him amidst the creative chaos, where we discuss his journey, the gritty realities of the industry, and why vulnerability is the key to staying grounded.

Emily Arauza: “You’ve got your hands in so many parts of the industry, I’m looking forward to hearing your take on it all. Let’s start by talking about your main focus—DJing. What’s been inspiring you lately when you step up to the decks?”

Melendez: “My dad is always my #1 inspiration. He taught me everything I needed to know & now everytime I go up to perform I always thank God, him and the moment I’m in. Melendez isn’t me, it's my family & putting the name on is always the reason why I go forth.”

EA: “I love that, it’s powerful to see how your dad and your faith drive everything you do, especially in an industry that can feel so far from God. How does your faith guide you in high-pressure situations, and what message do you hope your audience feels from the spiritual energy you bring?”

M: “The moment means a lot because I am truly blessed and thankful to be where I’m at today. This was all hard work & faith so without those two nothing would’ve been possible. It always guides me right because I don’t ever steer clear from the mission. Having discipline, faith, & purpose keeps you in the right direction while being around the right people. I’m not a spiritual person but I do know my God is the best & has gave me a chance to see a vision I always dreamed of.”

EA: “I also involve God in everything I do—He’s why and how I’ll prosper. It’s powerful to know you’re guided by something bigger than yourself. Was there a specific moment when you realized how important your faith was to you? And when did you first fall in love with what you’re doing now, whether it was DJing, producing, or something else? I’m curious if there was a turning point where it all clicked and you knew this was your purpose.”

M: “I was bad in school by hanging around the wrong crowd, doing things I knew could’ve got me in trouble, etc. One day I was about to get charges against me for stealing a phone at school luckily they just wanted the phone back. My dad worked at stereo live as the head of security so that night I went to go see one my fav djs Tommy Trash & I sat there watching the crowd turn up and realized if I really worked for it that could be me. My dad was already a dj so I’d get the fundamentals even when I didn’t ask so I told him I was ready to take it seriously and we went crazy after that. My faith is always big. I’m not even supposed to be here or fully aware of my consciousness. I was born with a hole in my heart, very sick, & doctors told my mom I was gonna have down syndrome. I beat the odds when I was born so everyday I know my purpose on this earth has to be big according to God's plan.”

EA: “Your story is a blueprint for defying expectations. Getting close to charges at school and then finding your calling in the same night—it feels like God gave you a glimpse of your future. You’ve beaten the odds from birth, proving that nothing is accidental, and maybe those of us who ‘aren’t supposed to be here’ are meant to make the biggest impact. With all you’ve been through, what legacy do you hope to leave behind, having already rewritten your own narrative?”

M: “I wanna leave the legacy of my last name to keep changing the game in any aspect. My dad is known all in Houston for running security, my brother also a dj & producer who be going crazy in his own lane, etc I wanna leave behind for everyone to see that you can do anything in this world if you just apply pressure. I don’t have any big homie guiding me, i had a mentor but life does its thing & now im using what I learned. End the day I want everyone know im just a regular person like anyone else just work ethic never stops.”

EA: “I can tell your dad and brother have shaped your mindset and hustle. Who are they, if you don’t mind me asking? I’d love to know how their paths influenced yours. I admire how you see your legacy as an extension of your family’s story. It’s inspiring how you’re carving your own lane, and letting your work ethic speak for itself—that’s the mentality that shifts culture.”

M: “My dad was an amazing person. Not just to me but anyone who came into contact w him. He worked at every Houston venue doing security & for the respect of live nation, disco Donnie, and other promotions. My brother DJd with me back in the day growing up. He is the main reason why my music is so up to par because he would always be the one showing me new music first. I thank my brother a lot for paving a way for me.”

EA: “It’s amazing how your dad and brother have shaped your journey, not just in music but in your whole approach to the industry. Given their impact, what drives you the most? Is it honoring their legacy, proving something to yourself, or is there another force that keeps you going?”

M: “It’s to get the name around the world & take care of the family. There’s so many times I wished I could’ve helped my people so many times. Growing up my mom & dad really wanted the best for us and did a lot to make sure we had everything we needed. I wanna honor my dad’s legacy & show the world who he was and how it’s forever embedded with me. You wanna take care of your parents with any end goal you have and make sure they have everything they deserve. I’ll never stop.”

EA: “I respect that—your commitment to getting your family’s name out there and honoring your dad’s legacy. It’s clear you’ve got a deep sense of purpose in what you’re doing, and that drive to take care of your family is something a lot of people can relate to but few are willing to put in the work for. I’m curious, how old were you when you decided to take this path seriously? And what was the process like when you first started getting into DJing and building your skills?”

M: “I was 14 at the time but didn’t have my first show till I was 16ish, I was shown live DJ shows since I was little and that’s what really paved the way for my vision. I used to always lock myself in my room when I would DJ for hours with my speakers, my dad would always just be in his room sleeping so I would always blast it haha. But really I always wanted to make a new sound and that’s what inspired my techno - hiphop type djing.”

EA: “It’s clear you’ve been locked in on this vision from a young age. I love that you were already experimenting with your own sound early on, blending techno and hip-hop. How old are you now? And as you’ve grown in the industry, how do you navigate the balance between chasing commercial success and staying true to your artistic vision?”

M: “I’m 26. I balance everything by staying true to me. No money or person will change anything about me.”

EA: “I respect that—staying true to yourself is everything, especially in an industry where it’s easy to get swayed by trends or outside influences. It takes real strength to hold onto your vision regardless of triumphs or setbacks. Do you have advice you'd give to someone just starting out who’s trying to find their own voice in this industry?”

M: “Travel, don’t wait on anyone, & don’t rush the process … enjoy every step whether it’s bad or good it’ll help you in the end. Also don’t get lost in the sauce, no matter how poppin or big you may become it can always be taken away from you. So be thankful but know your worth.”

EA: “Your perspective is a blueprint for longevity in an ever-shifting industry. You’ve had a big year producing for Concrete Boys and making waves at Camp Flog Gnaw. What’s next on your radar? Any upcoming events or projects you’re excited about?”

M: “Releasing my solo project soon with crazy house & techno sh** then getting ready for Rolling Loud with Concrete. Next year I can’t speak too much but just know it’ll be bigger than this year.”

EA: “That sounds like an incredible lineup, and we can’t wait to see what you have in store. Any final words for your fans or advice for upcoming artists looking to follow in your footsteps?”

M: “Don’t overthink. Don’t procrastinate. Don’t fall to wickedness.”