Check out our interview with DJ, producer, label head, curator, and Rinse FM resident Lupe Fuentes who’s quickly becoming the face of representation for female and LatinX presence in a male-dominated Dance Music Industry and just released her new single titled “DIP.”
In 2014, Fuentes launched her own imprint and brand IN THE LOOP where she put out over 100 releases from friends like Kerri Chandler and Todd Terry while simultaneously curating new talent around the world. 2023 sees the label embracing more house and techno tailored strictly for the dance floor, which can be heard at monthly pop-up parties, and In The Loop radio show on Rinse FM. An established female and LatinX role model in the dance music community, Lupe Fuentes finds inspiration in sharing her story of witnessing positive changes of representation. She’s also currently working on two EPs, one with Cypress Hill’s Eric Bobo and another with Coachella 2023 artist, Juliet Mendoza. On top of that, Fuentes will also be sharing her story through an upcoming book which combines elements of biography and self-help literature.
Follow Lupe Fuentes on IG @lupefuentes & TikTok @lupefuentesla
Hi Lupe, I bet you have new updates to share since our last interview! Tell us what’s new?
Hello friends! Great to be back!
So much is new. New label, new music, new life, ask away!
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Cultural, unpredictable, melancholic
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I have always had music in my heart. Music is not something that I chose, but something that chose me.
Massive Attack influences a lot of my current music. Also, going out and experiencing the music and energy of people.
Do you play any instruments?
I play the keyboard.
Let’s talk about the LatinX presence in music and how important representation is to you?.
It is essential for me to represent my culture and to support up-and-coming Latino artists making Latin music in the dance scene.
Tell us about your new single “DIP”. What’s the story behind the song?
I got inspired to make ‘DIP’ after playing an underground famous after-hours in DTLA. The energy was super raw. It inspired me to create a tune with a techno feel but a house groove. I hope you like it.
Tell us about the success of your previous single “Vamo Pa La Brea”
It’s my first single after two years of not making music. Maya played it this weekend during MMW at He/She/They. It was fun to see the crowd feeling it!
How was working with Coachella 2023 artist Juliet Mendoza?
I love Juliet; she is a great friend and we often collaborate on different creative projects. We are working on a tune together where we are both adding vocals. I can’t wait for you to hear it.
Now let’s talk about IN THE LOOP. How do you think it differs from other brands/companies?
It will probably take several releases for people to “get”. The pure answer to what’s different about In The Loop 2.0 is I want to put out records that make me go “UGHHHH that’s Mean, that’s Nasty, that’s a BEAST!”. The overall goal of the label is to develop its sound into a definitive lifestyle brand and culture. I would like IN THE LOOP to bring together those who get the same release from quality house music that I do as a music lover.
When you started your social media accounts, did you expect them to gain as much success as they did?
I have been in the internet business since 2007. Social media came after. I have been familiar with pay sites, social media, and online marketing since I can remember. I love to be connected with my online friends and for them to see my growth as an artist over the years. Getting to meet them at my shows is very cool and rewarding. I am grateful to see people supporting me for so long.
As a popular creator, you are followed by thousands of people on social media. Do you ever feel any pressure to ‘do the right thing’, and to encourage people to follow their dreams?
I always feel motivated to better myself and I hope that never disappears. I never feel pressure to put up a fake face if that’s what you ask. When you know yourself and have overcome difficult things, you become less of a people pleaser.
I want to show people that it is possible to overcome and grow no matter where you come from.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Girl, get up, dust yourself off, and continue walking your journey. Don’t lower your standards, and know that no one situation defines you.
If you were a book, what would be the title and why?
Reinventing, Evolving, Becoming
What would say are the greatest lessons you’ve learned so far?
I have learned a few. A couple are:
- Don fight the old. Build the new
- Stay in your lane, work inwardly, and the outside will fall into place
Any advice to entrepreneurs out there?
Enjoy the journey. It only ends when you die!
What’s next for Lupe Fuentes in 2023?
I am focused on making and releasing music on my label, In The Loop 2.0. I will also be playing a few fun gigs like: Sound presents: Palm Springs Day Club 2023 and DayTrip LA. For my monthly residency with Rinse FM, B Real from Cypress Hill will be my guest on the show this month so stay tuned! Airs tomorrow (April 11th). Click Here!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Making my own schedule, and living my life in a creative light with like-minded people.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Right now it’s La Bebe by Yng Lvcas
Where can we follow you on socials?
TikTok @lupefuentesla, everything else @lupefuentes
