Exploring the Musical Vision of Mia Moretti: A Pioneer in Disco-Driven House
Photo credit: Mia Moretti – Instagram
Los Angeles-based DJ and producer Mia Moretti has carved out a unique niche in the music scene over the past decade. With her distinctive sound that fuses elements of classic, vocal, and disco-driven house, Mia has become a celebrated figure in dance music. Her accolades include being named DJ of the Year by Paper magazine and receiving features in prestigious publications like The New York Times, Interview, and Rolling Stone. Throughout her career, Mia has adeptly connected the world of dance music with an array of diverse musical traditions, creating a sonic tapestry that resonates with audiences.
Her debut EP, ‘Tambor’ (2023), represents a significant milestone in Mia’s evolving production journey. This project prominently features collaborations with renowned Colombian bullerengue artists Petrona Martínez and Totó la Momposina, showcasing her commitment to integrating global influences into her craft. Sampling is a hallmark of Mia’s production style, as she draws on a rich palette of sounds from artists like Letta Mbulu, Chicco, and Vonita White, infusing her tracks with depth and texture.
Following ‘Tambor’, Mia made waves in the industry with her release on Crosstown Rebels, titled ‘Safe With Me’. This track features the soulful voice of Irma Thomas, along with remixes from influential figures like David Morales and Tiger Stripes. This collaborative spirit is central to Mia’s endeavors, as she continually seeks to forge connections among artists to enrich her musical narratives.
Her latest work, ‘Chef’s Kiss Radio Vol. 1: Ibiza’, is a vibrant compilation that encapsulates the energy of her summer residency on the island of Ibiza. Released through her label Spaghetti Moretti Records, the album features contributions from exciting artists including Uffie, Radio Slave, Bárbara Boeing, and Myd. It serves not only as a collection of tracks but also as a musical representation of the unique ambiance and experiences cultivated during her parties.
In her recent conversation with Electronic Groove, Mia Moretti provided insight into the creative process behind her compilation, the whimsical philosophy that drives Spaghetti Moretti Records, and what lies ahead for the Chef’s Kiss project.
EG: Hi Mia, welcome to Electronic Groove. How have you been feeling after another summer of Chef’s Kiss?
Mia Moretti: Ready for breakfast in bed.
Through her residency, Mia recalled the moment she realized she wanted to transform her summer experiences into a record. “When I started booking the residency,” she explained, “I felt a little like an elf baking. A teaspoon of this, a splash of that, a twist, a shout — as more artists were added, it became increasingly precise. I always believed compilation albums are like playlists made for your best friends to solidify memories. With this lineup, we had the ingredients for a record that would take us back to this moment in time.”
As she curated the compilation, Mia was intentional about selecting tracks that seamlessly fit with her label’s identity. She noted, “Most importantly, I looked for the track from each artist that matched my label. This is my label’s first release that isn’t my own music, so I wanted to craft a definitive sound for Spaghetti Moretti Records. It’s not a serious place—it’s more akin to a vacation house for artists to be playful.” This lighthearted approach is integral to the aura of her music, which Mia hopes encapsulates the joy and ecstasy of her DJ sets.
During her Chef’s Kiss parties, Mia has created a welcoming space where DJs and artists from diverse backgrounds can showcase their talents. “The residency feels like I’m throwing myself a birthday party,” she described, expressing the joy and indulgence that come with curating such vibrant lineups. “We should enjoy them. Turn off the brain and dance.”
The distinctive character behind Spaghetti Moretti is evident, from the playful name to the curated artwork and the convivial way she presents her music. Mia emphasized the importance of humor in her work, stating, “While music is always paramount, I detest taking it too seriously. It detracts from the experience for me. With my label, I wanted to clarify that we aren’t DFA, we aren’t Michelin stars; we’re a corner pasta shop, and we don’t take reservations. Walk-in only.”
Among the tracks featured in the compilation are Mia’s own contributions, such as ‘GET READY!’ and ‘backseat baby’, along with remixes from Bárbara Boeing and Radio Slave. The interplay of styles offered new insights into her music. She candidly remarked, “That it is a woman with many faces,” revealing the dynamic nature of her artistry.
The remix of ‘backseat baby’ by Radio Slave provided the track with a fresh context, prompting Mia to reflect on its adaptability. “You could play 9 minutes of engine revs,” she quipped, showcasing her playful approach to music that transcends traditional expectations.
The limited vinyl edition of ‘Chef’s Kiss Radio Vol. 1’ even includes Myd’s unique remix of Cesária Évora’s ‘Bia Lulucha’. Initially skeptical about including a remix of the iconic artist, Mia soon realized that it not only fit but became one of the compilation’s standout tracks. “Myd understands how playfulness can dance around in a track without veering into the strange,” she remarked, highlighting its thematic alignment with the spirit of Chef’s Kiss.
Mia views the compilation not just as a temporal slice of her Ibiza summer, but as an archival piece that captures fleeting moments. “It’s crucial to remember how we spend our time and who we share it with. What can I say, I’m a romantic!” she confessed, demonstrating an emotional connection to her work and community.
The success of ‘Chef’s Kiss Radio Vol. 1’ opens the door for future projects, and Mia is enthusiastic about expanding the series. “Of course! If it’s worth remembering, we will press it up,” she stated, hinting at more exciting collaborations and adventures ahead.
As Mia looks towards the remainder of the year, she has exciting plans for Spaghetti Moretti and Chef’s Kiss. “I’m looking forward to a release party in Amsterdam for ADE, where our guest DJs will also be guest-chef-ing at Stacks Deli. We also have remix packages set to drop soon, and on January 15th, our next single ‘FAVORITE WASTE OF TIME’ by ABEL is coming out,” she shared, promising a dynamic future for her musical endeavors.
Mia Moretti’s ‘Chef’s Kiss Radio Vol. 1: Ibiza’ is out now on Spaghetti Moretti Records. Stream and download here.
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