Radiating deep grooves and mesmerizing soundscapes, NonCitizens are the Argentinean duo that have captivated audiences around the globe with their passionate performances and productions over the last few years. Lifelong friends Pancho Rotta and Mateo Moreno embarked on their musical journey in early 2015. Marking their first official EP in 2017, the pair delivered a three-track offering that introduced their magnetic rhythms and reflected their musical alchemy. Moving from strength to strength, 2018 saw the duo secure sought-after residencies at Void Mykonos, Rumors Ibiza and Tox By Night at Destino Ibiza.Sharing the decks with the industry’s most influential acts, including Guy Gerber, Sven Väth, Dubfire, Bedouin, DJ Tennis and Damian Lazarus, NonCitizens enchanted crowds from week to week, becoming a household name on the international dance circuit.
Follow NonCitizens @noncitizensmusic
Hi NonCitizens, welcome to Naluda Magazine! Where are we speaking to you from today?
Thank you for inviting us and giving us the opportunity to make ourselves known a little bit more.
We are currently in Punta del Este, Uruguay
Can you tell us how you got into the music world?
We used to go to school together and we were both part of the school band, where we learned everything from saxophone, trombone, drums and piano!
That experience in school was when we started introducing ourselves in the world of music, and then everything came naturally as we really loved it.
You guys are life long friends, but how did you start producing together?
We started as soon as we finished school, we both immersed ourselves in the world of DJing and playing music in parties.
We started doing it as a hobby, but gradually we became more interested in the electronic music. That’s how one day we decided to form NonCitizens.
We came up with the great idea to move to Ibiza, where we met a lot of people of the industry and learned that the most important thing to be successful DJ, we had to produce our own tracks. This was like 8 years ago. WOW, time flies!
You have had your own residencies at dance music hotspots, including at Void Mykonos, Rumors Ibiza and Tox By Night at Destino Ibiza. How does it feel to be able to play at these amazing locations week after week?
Those years, besides having a great time, were very important for us, as we learned a lot about what it means to be residents of a party and the responsibility it entails.
We felt very happy and grateful for the opportunity that they gave to us to play at one of the best parties on the island, like Rumors, and in one of the most important clubs in Mykonos. Week after week, we were opening for many of our idols. We learnt a lot, and we couldn’t believe what was happening to us.
You have shared the decks with some of the most influential DJs, including Sven Väth, DJ Tennis, Damian Lazarus, Black Coffee and many more. Who has been the most fun to perform alongside?
For sure Guy Gerber, maybe cause we spend a lot of time with him, and whenever we open for Guy, it is always a very fun night. He is a super cool person and really nice with us, he gave us lot of opportunities. We’re really thankful with him, and we will never forget.
How has it been releasing on imprints such as MoBlack, Wired, Radiant, and Deep Tech Records?
Being signed to a big record label can be a very exciting and rewarding experience for a DJ. We’re really happy that they listen to our tracks and love them. Was amazing when we got the reply and the feedback. It is a validation of your skills as a DJ and producer. We feel more confidence as artists.
You received support from Pete Tong and many others for your huge hit ‘Lost Trumpet In Space’. How does it feel to get such great support?
Getting support from your idols as a DJ, it’s a huge validation of our hard work. It’s incredibly gratifying to know that someone you have been looking up to, and admired for years, recognizes your talent and appreciates your work. It can also be a boost to your confidence and motivation to continue pursuing your passion for music.
Knowing that your idols are supporting you, can also open new opportunities in the industry. It could lead to collaborations, gigs, or other projects that might not have been possible.
At the same time, we know that receiving support from your idols doesn’t necessarily guarantee success. We always keep trying, continue working hard, and focus on improving.
What were some of your highlights of 2022?
Most of the time in 2022 (before our crazy tour in South America) was spent in the studio making music. Thanks to that, we had the opportunity to get our music into big record labels, that are very interesting for us, such as: Wired, My Other Side Of The Moon or a new track in MoBlack in collaboration with Darksidevinyl, a big artist that we really adore and learn from him.
When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?
After a night of partying, we like to relax and do some of our favorites activities. For sure listening to calming music after crazy weekend.
We love and enjoy playing golf or spend time with close friends and family.
Best stage you have ever played?
Maybe isn’t the biggest stage we’ve played on, but as an experience, it was one of the most beautiful ones. Being able to showcase our music at Lollapalooza Argentina was really special. We are very happy that we are part of the biggest festival of our country.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Learn the basics, start by learning the fundamentals of DJing, such as beatmatching, mixing, and track selection. Practice consistently to develop your skills.
Build a music library, collect and organize a diverse selection of music, including new releases and classic tracks. This will give you a broad range of options when creating sets.
Always try to network: attend DJ events, connect with other DJs, and build relationships with promoters, venue owners, and other industry professionals. Networking can open up new opportunities and help you establish yourself in the industry.
Promote yourself: Use social media and other platforms to showcase your talent, share your music, and connect with fans. Build a strong online presence and promote yourself as a brand.
Try to develop a unique style: Experiment with different genres, techniques, and equipment to develop your own style and sound.
And always keep learning: Stay up to date with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies in the industry. Attend workshops, take classes, and continue to develop your skills and knowledge as a DJ.
Best and worst thing about your job?
The best thing about being a DJ is the joy of creating music and performing for crowds. DJs have the ability to use their skills and creativity to create unique and exciting music that can inspire and entertain people. Additionally, the thrill of performing in front of a live audience and seeing the energy and excitement of the crowd can be an incredible experience.
On the other hand, the worst thing about being a DJ could be the pressure of constantly creating new music and staying up to date with current trends. It can be challenging to stay relevant in an industry that is constantly evolving and changing. Additionally, the long hours, late nights, and irregular schedules required for performing at events can take a toll on physical and mental health. Finally, like any job, there may be periods of uncertainty or instability, particularly for DJs who are just starting out in the industry.
Who would be your dream to work with?
Wow there so many hahah, but maybe nowadays with Pablo Fierro or Keinemusik!
Best track to get the party started?
It really depends of the party but we like to start always with some of our tracks, edits or remix.
Your idea of a perfect Sunday is?
Golf and music.
What do you like to watch on TV?
We really don’t watch too much TV, but if we do for sure some sports or a random movie.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Asado without bread
And your favorite cheat food?
We really love to eat, whatever, we like any street food or a really big asado.
Where we can follow you?
On IG as @noncitizensmusic where we share everything about us and music
Favorite Quote: It’s in Spanish: Es mejor perder el tiempo con amigos, que perder los amigos con el tiempo.
Holiday Destination: Ibiza it’s always a good idea
Drink: Moscow mule, champagne , carajillo, gin tonic, spritz, fernet with coke.
Celebrity Crush: Lionel Messi
Song: Purple Rain – Prince
Sports Team: River Plate
Movie: Searching for Sugar Man
