In the heart of Amsterdam’s vibrant Nexus Lounge ADE edition at the KEF pop-up space, Nexus Radio’s Maxine Penny engaged in an electrifying conversation with the charismatic Agatino Romero. Known for his upbeat rhythms and captivating melodies, Romero isn’t just a music producer; he embodies a spirit of positivity and community that resonates far beyond the dance floor.
For Agatino Romero, Amsterdam is a city of countless memories and experiences. “I’ve been here more than ten times,” he shared, his energy unmistakable. But this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) held a special place in his heart. “It’s like a big meeting school with all my friends touring the world. Seeing so many amazing DJs and producers… it’s very, very nice.” ADE’s ability to foster connections and inspiration among artists is part of what makes it magical for creators like Romero.
Agatino Romero reminisced about the moment that ignited his passion for music. He described a transformative experience tied to a track from a lesser-known band years ago. “It was the first track that really gave me emotion for music,” he explained. The music video, which chronicled the struggles of an aspiring musician, struck a deeply personal chord, mirroring his journey into the world of music.
For Agatino Romero, the quality of sound is paramount. “It’s really important because, in the end, we want to make art,” he emphasized. Crafting a personal touch and aligning each track’s sound with its narrative are integral to his creative process. This meticulous dedication ensures that his music transcends mere entertainment, creating an emotional connection with listeners.
Agatino Romero revealed exciting details about his current projects, highlighting collaborations with the Fast Boys, Even Boss, Hyperton, and fellow Italians, including Georgia. These partnerships reflect Romero’s fearless approach to exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of dance music.
The interview also showcased Agatino Romero’s humor and spontaneity. In a lighthearted rapid-fire round, he chose “hands for feet” over “feet for hands,” remarking on how funny it would look. These moments highlighted his charm and relatability, endearing him even more to fans.
Citing Martin Garrix as a major influence, Agatino Romero shared the surreal moment when the superstar DJ praised his work. “Meeting Martin Garrix was crazy. Having someone like him listen to my music was a cool moment,” he reflected. As for his hopes for dance music’s future, Romero envisions a return to authentic artistry. “I hope it’s coming back to real music, using real guitars and instruments. It’s always best when humans play something.”
Agatino Romero’s path from aspiring soccer player to music trailblazer is a story of resilience and passion. After an injury ended his budding soccer career, he poured his ambition into music, creating grooves that have become his signature. His advice to upcoming artists? “Never give up, always keep going. Work hard, and sometimes success will happen.”
Agatino Romero is more than a DJ; he’s a storyteller who crafts experiences. With roots in Hamburg and Sicily, his dynamic performances and unique sound continue to captivate audiences worldwide. From the Nexus Lounge ADE to global stages, Romero’s music is a celebration of life, energy, and connection—reminding us that music truly is a universal language.