At the Nexus Lounge, DJ Ron sat down with Sonny Denja, an Italian DJ and producer whose career bridges classic technique and modern innovation. Known for creating the distinctive DENJADRUM sound—a vibrant fusion of Latin, tropical, and electronic dance music—Sonny Denja has built a global reputation through energetic performances and a deep respect for the craft of DJing.
From the very start of the conversation, Sonny Denja’s passion for music was unmistakable. Describing Amsterdam as a city full of life and inspiration, he reflected on how technology has evolved alongside his career. Despite decades of innovation in DJ tools, Sonny Denja remains loyal to the foundations. He shared that he began DJing with turntables more than 25 years ago and still uses them today, emphasizing that their presence continues to shape his performances in a meaningful way.
Sonny Denja fondly recalled his first encounter with Technics turntables at just 12 years old, explaining how that moment ignited a lifelong love affair with vinyl and hands-on mixing. For him, turntables are more than equipment—they represent a romantic, tactile connection to music that can’t be replaced by screens or software. That philosophy continues to define his approach behind the decks.
When asked about favorite records, Sonny Denja pointed to his appreciation for old-school hip-hop, including artists like Snoop Dogg. That broad musical taste is reflected in his dynamic sets, which seamlessly move across genres and cultures. His versatility and technical skill have earned him international recognition, including a finalist spot in the Red Bull 3Style competition, where creativity and crowd control take center stage.
The interview also revealed Sonny Denja’s playful side. When DJ Ron asked what kind of cheese his music would be, Sonny laughed and described it as “tasty but bouncy,” a lighthearted metaphor that perfectly captures the rhythm and energy of his sound. Humor, for Sonny, is as much a part of the journey as discipline and practice.
Music isn’t just Sonny Denja’s profession—it’s his daily life. Spending long hours producing and refining his sound, he sees music as a constant companion that fuels his creativity and keeps him evolving. Even when imagining a life swap with another artist, he chose fellow Italian DJ Kevu, someone who shares a similar global path and musical energy. Listen to the full interview below.
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