On Sunday, March 22, at 11 p.m., DJ Isaac Escalante will be spinning for the first time for Alegria. Hailing from Mexico, DJ Isaac is a world-renowned traveling DJ doing some of the largest parties in the world.
So you’re the newest DJ at the Alegria (March 22)?
Yes.
How’d you get the job?
I played all over the world: Madrid, Barcelona, Brazil, Tel Aviv, everywhere.
What is the biggest party you’ve ever played?
The main event in Barcelona was like 50,000 people, something like that.
That’s a big, big party.
Yeah, right? I was shaking.
How long have you been a DJ?
Since I was 16. I’m 35, so like 19 years.
And your DJ name is Isaac?
Isaac Escalante, yeah.
What do you like most about being a DJ?
Well, I produce music, so my favorite moment of the night is when I’m trying my new music and seeing the reaction of the people, how it works and what are the things I have to change. The final result of it is what I like.
You write your own music?
Yeah.
DJs are becoming larger than rock stars. Do you have a favorite DJ that inspires you?
Carl Cox. I have a few – Danny Tenaglia.
Who do you think is the most influential DJ of today?
Carl Cox is one of the most important. The amount of people he brings every summer is just amazing.
What motivated you to become a DJ?
I was young. I was in my house listening to music, and then … it was just something that I had inside. I wanted to do it.
What kind of music do you play?
I play house, techno house and tribal.
You play for gay audiences?
Yeah.
What is your favorite party to spin?
Well, one of my dreams was to play at Alegria, [and] now it will come true. I grew up with Alegria. It’s been there for 15 years now. When I was young I used to go to Alegria. It was my dream. I saw the party, and I was like, “Wow, what is this?” One of my dreams is coming true.
So you’re so excited about this party?
Yeah, I am – super excited. I think it’s gonna be a lot of fun. I’ve been working for the past two months on the music, and I’m super excited.
How do you prepare for such a party like Alegria?
I do new tracks, remix new stuff. It’s a lot of work.
How do you feel about Junior Vasquez?
I think he is one of the most legendary DJs. I grew up with his music. For me, he’s a legend.
Is there anything else that you would like to promote?
No, I’m just happy to play at Alegria, and I hope to see you all there.
ALEGRIA XTREME XV
Webster Hall
125 East 11th Street
11 p.m. – 12 p.m.
