2022 is almost over and it’s a good moment to review the most important milestones of this past year full of learnings, new experiences and, of course, music. Hotboxx shares some insight about his year and his plans for the holidays.
Hi, thanks for taking the time to talk to us today. 2022 is almost over, we want to know what is your most important highlight of the year, both musically and personally?
Absolutely happy to take the time. Musically, there were a good few but I’d say I have 2 favorites, playing my first international gig and having my EP chart at #1 on Deep House for over 2 weeks.
Personally, I’d say buying my home.
What was your favorite release of 2022 (of your own)?
Although I did like the EP that charted a lot, I’d say my favorite was my Afro House release, ‘Hialeah’. I have been heavily into Tech and Afro lately. As I am of Latino background as well, really like the Latin flavor of this track.
And what was your favorite track of the year from someone else?
Tough question, but I would say one of my favorites to play and listen to constantly is ‘Sombrero Sam’ by Mochakk. Just a very well-produced track and good to play in any situation.
Did you have any special standout shows this year either that you played or attended?
Played was for sure Modular Reef Festival in Roatan, Honduras. And attended was Music On for Art Basel here in Miami, just a magical show.
What was the biggest lesson you learned in life 2022?
Surround yourself with real people who will support you the same way you support them.
And following on, what was the biggest lesson you learned in music?
Put a good team around you, and if you want to push the music to eventually become the main source of income, treat it like a business. Make a business plan, set goals and execute just like you would with a regular business.
If you could send yourself a message to you 5 years ago, what would it be and why?
Take the chance, invest in yourself.
How has your sound developed in 2022?
Definitely different steps and things I look for when producing. Collaborations have given me new ideas and ways to work so that has help my production and sound develop. I’d say moving forward you can expect more hard-hitting club tracks to make people dance.
Who would you say was the most innovative artist in 2022?
Very tough question, Fred Again.. was definitely very innovative but I’d say the biggest influence on my music and my top artist for 2022 is Dennis Cruz. Just an amazing producer and DJ.
Which label or labels do you think where at the top of their game in 2022?
Solid Grooves, every release they put out is on another level. Michael Bibi has done an amazing job with the label, making sure they only push quality track. Nervous Records has also been incredible this year and in the past, constant quality as well.
If any, do you have any regrets for the year behind us?
Not really, I try not to dwell on what could have been done right, no sense in that. Rather just focus on the future.
What are your plans for the holidays?
Just hanging with the family, may catch one of the amazing shows here in Miami for New Year.
Just for fun, if you had to take a classic Christmas song and remix it, what style would it be and what could we expect?
It would be between ‘This Christmas’ and ‘Jingle Bell Rock’, think there could actually be a really cool Tech House type remix to ‘Jingle Bell Rock’.
Where will you be spending New Year’s Eve?
With Friends and family.
If you had to put 2022 into one sentence, what would it be?
I was able to set the foundation, very excited for what is to come.
Connect with Hotboxx: SoundCloud | Instagram | Beatport
