Djs concentrate more on delivering ” Nostalgia” instead of promoting the evolution of freestyle
I’ve been a nightclub DJ here in Miami since 1976. Disco, Italo, Freestyle, House at all phases of Dance Music, I was there in the DJ booth. There has always been an active Disco and Freestyle scene in South Florida. The styles capture a moment in our life as Hispanics who migrated to the United States in the Late 60s and early 70s.
Freestyle music caught us in our mid-20s, with a little money in our pockets and a desire to dance every weekend under the flashing lights of our local ” Discotecas” Homegrown talent such as Erotic Exotic, Will to Power, Stevie B, Secret Society, Company B, Ray Guell, Nice, and Wild, and of course, Expose put us on the map as a Freestyle destination.
Our style was different than that of New York’s more urban sound, we leaned more to the
” pretty” sound incorporating our city’s love of Disco music in some of the productions, but we embraced all the artists at the nightclubs.
The Freestyle era was a ” Golden” time for us here in South Florida and our love for that music has forever remained in our hearts. In the last 10 years or so, Freestyle has made a comeback, with concerts and a few clubs catering to fans of this genre, but the music has plateaued.
Many Djs concentrate more on delivering ” Nostalgia” instead of trying to advance and promote the evolution of the style. DJ Playlists at concerts and clubs have become repetitive. Very few take chances on exposing new product from established or new ” Freestyle” artists.
In the last few years, there have been a handful of notable” New Freestyle ” productions that could easily be added to any Freestyle night, constantly overlooked by DJs.A few examples are C-Bank’s ” Heaven ” by Flygroove & George Lamond – “I Believe In Love” by Stevie B. feat. VICKA – Gonna be mine, and Cynthia’s “Are You Ready For Love” mostly overlooked.
So to understand where Freestyle is headed, it’s important first to recognize its roots. This genre was a staple in the club scene of the late 80s and early 90s, characterized by its distinctive blend of Latin rhythms, synth-driven melodies, and emotive vocals. Artists like Stevie B, Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam, and George Lamond played pivotal roles in its rise. Over the decades, the genre saw shifts influenced by the rise of reggaeton, trap, and other urban sounds, leading to a period where freestyle seemed to fade from the mainstream.
However, as with many musical genres, Latin freestyle has experienced a resurgence thanks to nostalgic revivals and digital accessibility. This renewed interest is being driven by both veteran artists and a new generation who are reinterpreting the genre in innovative ways.
As DJs, we play a crucial role in the evolution of any music genre, and Latin freestyle is no exception. It is our task to create new hits and stimulate the production of new music as the gatekeepers of the dance floors
Here's how I believe DJs can influence the future of Latin freestyle
We must try somehow to expand our audiences. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, DJs have unprecedented access to global audiences. By sharing their mixes, remixes, and live sets online, they are exposing Latin freestyle to listeners worldwide. This exposure can lead to a broader appreciation and potentially a new wave of fans who might seek out original freestyle tracks and artists.
Looking ahead, the future of Latin freestyle music is likely to be marked by continued innovation and fusion, but most of all by promotion of new material that advances the genre. As DJs continue to experiment with different sounds and production techniques, we can expect to see a more eclectic range of freestyle music that reflects the diverse influences of contemporary music culture.
The genre’s revival is not just a nod to nostalgia but a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability. As new artists and producers enter the scene, they bring with them fresh perspectives that will shape the sound of Latin freestyle for years to come. The role of DJs in this evolution cannot be overstated—they are the ones who will continue to push boundaries, create new trends, and keep the spirit of Latin freestyle alive and vibrant.
In conclusion, the future of Latin freestyle music looks promising, driven by the creative energy of DJs who are redefining the genre’s boundaries. With their innovative approaches and passion for music, DJs are ensuring that Latin freestyle remains a dynamic and relevant part of the musical land.
New Times Best Club DJ ( Reader’s Choice } 1997-2001
International Dance Music Association Nominee
South Florida DJ Association President / Founder
www.yachtrockmiami.com
