In the years since he arrived on the global dance music scene in 2010, Pablo Fierro has evolved from an unknown producer to one of the most respected names in contemporary electronic music.
Releasing across a host of imprints that includes Innervisions, Compost Records, Vida Records and Defected, he’s made a name for himself as a bold and visionary producer, willing to venture through varied sounds and styles in search of inspiration. Hailing from Tenerife, Fierro is a globe-trotting artist with international reach and recognition, receiving endorsement from Gilles Peterson, Pete Tong, Dixon and Black Coffee, among others.
We caught up with the man himself ahead of his performance at Lío London this Friday 29th March, playing alongside Iagö and Mortiz Mello.
Hey Pablo. We loved your recent mix for DHA. That Childish Gambino edit in there, is that yours? It’s been all over London recently.
Thanks so much – I often play this track, which was produced by my friend Osunlade.
Your latest release on Secret Weapons was a huge hit – what’s your relationship with the guys at Innervisions?
I’ve had such great feedback from that one, so thank you. It reached No 1 on the Beatport Afro-House chart, which was incredible. Innervisions is a real focus for me at the moment, along with Compost Records.
How did you start your musical journey, and when did music become your career?
I started a long, long time ago. I never studied music, but it’s come from my parents: my father and mother were both musicians. I started making music with my brother, he’s a DJ here in Tenerife. He taught me everything!
How was your 2018? Any shows or projects we should know about?
Last year was probably my best so far. I started to play a lot of shows worldwide, and then I focused more on my work in pop music: aside from my electronic production, I also work as a commercial songwriter – I’ve written for Shakira, Enrique Iglesias, Carlos Baute and many other Latin artists. These projects are totally different from the music I release under my own name.
“I think we are at a great time for electronic music, because there are a couple of hugely talented producers that are bringing other styles and genres together with dance and electronic.”
What are your thoughts on the contemporary electronic music scene?
I think we are at a great time for electronic music, because there are a couple of hugely talented producers that are bringing other styles and genres together with dance and electronic – I think this is so important. Right now, I really love Santiago Garcia, Luke Garcia and FNX Omar.
You’re a global DJ, playing in countries all over the world. What cities do you enjoy playing the most, where do you get the best response to your music?
Usually, I really enjoy playing Greece, Italy, and all the Mediterranean countries. Also Latin America, the US, and Africa as well – Kenya and Morocco especially. I love to spread my energy, and all of what I do is with love and respect. All I want is to share music with people across the world.
“I love to spread my energy, and all of what I do is with love and respect. All I want is to share music with people across the world.”
Who are you currently working with?
Right now, I’m working with Hyenah on a new EP, and collaborating with Raoul K and Black Coffee while preparing my next album. I never stop, man!
Tell us about your creative process for producing a full-length project, as opposed to an EP or a 12″ release.
Usually when I’m writing tracks, I start with a vocal or an instrumental idea and then build on that. But when I decide to prepare an album, it’s because I have a lot of tracks ready. So, now I think it’s time to make a compilation, choose the best ones and make something bigger, maybe including some collaborative tracks with other artists. It’s a difficult process, but very interesting. I think it’ll be ready within a year.
“I would say my primary influences are not electronic, but Flamenco and Brazilian music.”
Who are your biggest influences?
I have a deep interest and passion for the sounds of Flamenco, Latin, and Salsa music. I love Tito Puente and Celia Cruz, and I listen to a lot of Brazilian music. I would say my primary influences are not electronic, but Flamenco and Brazilian music.
What are your plans for 2019 – will you focus on touring or production?
Both. I would like to make more music and play more gigs around the world. I love to travel and meet new people, so I hope this year brings me all of those things.