In conversation with DJ QU: Music as Spirit, Passion as Path

Ramon, better known as DJ Qu, broke onto the international scene with his seminal Expressway EP on TS Records back in 2006. His label, Strength Music, launched in 2005, continues to attract the attention of record buyers, DJs, and music press alike.

His track Rainy Daze remains a standout from the Unity Kolabo double compilation released on Jus-Ed’s acclaimed label, Underground Quality. But DJ Qu’s talent reaches far beyond production. He became a key figure in New York’s dance community through his residency at the city’s legendary House Dance Conference, an institution since 1999 that merges deep music and movement into a clubbing experience.

Qu describes his DJ sets there as “a presentation of a dancer’s energy and mood.” That ethos earned him a spot alongside P-Funk on Nike’s Rockstar Workout CD project, and gigs at iconic venues such as Fabric (London), Panorama Bar and Tape Club (Berlin), Trouw (Amsterdam), Eleven (Tokyo), and many more across Italy, Romania, and beyond.

His productions have found their way into the record bags of artists like Ricardo Villalobos, Omar S, Levon Vincent, Jus-Ed, Keith Worthy, and Pepe Bradock. With standout remixes for the likes of Jitterburg on Uzuri and Walt J, and his debut album The Gymnastics catching the attention of major labels and critics, DJ Qu continues to bring depth and fire to Strength Music, and to dancefloors worldwide.

Q.⁠ ⁠You’ve built a reputation for pushing deep, raw, and soulful sounds. How has your approach to music evolved over the years?

A. To be honest it hasn't changed much over the years from that description. I'm still into deep, raw and soulful sounds in music.

Q.⁠ ⁠Your work often carries a spiritual and introspective element. How do you explore spirituality through DJing, and does this intersect with wellness? 

A. I'm impressed that you recognized the spiritual aspect of what I do. It shows that your understanding of music is proper as most people don’t associate me with that side, which is completely fine as well. When it comes to DJing, spirituality is an inherent part of the process. It requires little effort on my part because it’s naturally present. I'm just a vessel for its use. It’s a force greater than myself, as music to me is spirit and one that likely existed before humanity. Promoting wellness is always part of the program too!

Q.⁠ ⁠If you could give one piece of advice about longevity and staying grounded in this industry, what would it be?

A. My advice is simple: do it because you love it, do it because you're passionate about it. Others may have different perspectives, but for me love & passion leads to longevity. As you grow you'll pick up other aspects just as most artists do along the way. 

Q.⁠ ⁠You’re playing our Waveflow party on 18th May . What are you looking forward to most about playing a sober event?

A. I've actually played many sober events in my time so I'm expecting to see a lot of dancing. Should be a good one!

Q. At Waveflow we’re always on the lookout for new drink options to add to our alcohol-free bar. What’s your go-to drink order for a sober session?

A. My option would be Coconut water. The hydration level of coconut water is top notch.