During the Nexus Lounge ADE Edition, Nexus Radio hosted an exclusive interview with the renowned DJ Plastik Funk. The conversation, held in the cozy Technics space, unveiled not only Plastik Funk’s professional journey but also the personal anecdotes that have shaped his dynamic career in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene.
The origin of Plastik Funk’s name is as intriguing as their music. Initially a mix of influences, the name combines the essence of two inspirations: a party called “Plastic” and a label named “Royal Funk.” Reflecting on its creation, Plastik Funk shared, “Plastic Funk just sounded cool. We thought if we put this together, it would be more fun.” What began as an experimental moniker soon became synonymous with a signature sound that ignites clubs and festivals worldwide.
Plastik Funk’’s multicultural upbringing has been pivotal to his artistic identity. Rafael embraced diversity from an early age, with a Spanish father and German mother, and his childhood was defined by constant travel due to his father’s career as a pilot. “I’ve been everywhere. My father’s a pilot, so we were traveling around like gypsies,” he reminisced. From Madrid to Germany to Ibiza, each destination added layers of inspiration that now resonate in Plastik Funk’s bass-driven house beats.
2024 has been a hallmark year for Plastik Funk, reflecting on the fruits of relentless dedication. “Luckily, I can say it was one of the best years of my career. Picking up awards is like the result of hard work—not just from this year but the last 10 years,” he stated.
Beyond the decks, Plastik Funk’s life is rich with meaningful pursuits. A devoted animal lover, he rescues Podenco dogs, including one affectionately named “Carl Cox.” His playful humor and passion for animals highlight a deeply compassionate side that complements his electrifying stage persona.
Health and wellness are also cornerstones of Plastik Funk’s lifestyle, especially given the grueling demands of international touring. Whether it’s paddle tennis with friends or vitamin drips to stay energized, he prioritizes balance. “These vitamin drips help—it’s smart to give my body something extra during intense schedules,” he shared.
Throughout the interview, Plastik Funk emphasized the value of passion and mentorship. His advice to aspiring artists? “Enjoy what you’re doing because, at the end of the day, this is the best job in the world.” This philosophy fuels both his creative output and his connection with fans.
With collaborations alongside heavyweights like NERVO, Timmy Trumpet, and Cat Dealers, Plastik Funk’s release schedule remains stacked with exciting projects. Their global presence on stages like Tomorrowland, Ultra Europe, and Parookaville only strengthens their reputation as masters of crowd engagement.
As Plastik Funk continues to push boundaries in the dance music scene, Rafael’s story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, cultural richness, and unbridled passion. Fans and industry insiders eagerly await this remarkable journey’s next chapter.
