Waae [we are all equal] looms from an ideal of love and equality amongst all. As such values are the core of what represent Jorge’s music, he strives to spread a no-hate mantra through his music. After a deep introspection influenced by spiritual awareness, Jorge’s approach to music shifted and the need to express positivity and unity through music became the priority. A sustainable, inclusive dance floor — with no racial barriers & promoting a harmonious coexistence with nature — are the foundations and goals of every set curated by waae.
Born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, Jorge got immersed in the local scene at a young age and accrued important gigs in his hometown and in the hottest destinations in Mexico, such as Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen & Puerto Vallarta. In 2015 he transitioned to NYC and quickly got involved in the prominent nightlife scene of the city, where he paved his way to partake in the musical curation of several top venues in town.
In 2021, Jorge relocated to Miami, seeking for new challenges and further getting soaked in the diverse latin culture the city had to offer. His years in NYC and his continuous gigs in tropical destinations such as Miami and Tulum shaped his exquisite taste which ranges from disco to house and organic/downtempo selections. His music aims to take the room on a musical and spiritual journey beyond the physical boundaries of the venue, where all become one. His own production style could be described as melodic, at times dreamy, with an afro touch, suitable for both the dance floor and home stereos alike.
When did you start DJing and what or who were your early passions and influences?
I started DJing in 2011, having my first gigs in small clubs and bars in my hometown in early 2012. My passion for electronic music goes back to my first clubbing days; I was immediately struck by the music they were playing, as it was something new to me. I would always go and ask the DJ for the names of the tracks. It was a lot of trance and balearic house back then, artists like Roger Sanchez, Armand Van Helden, Dennis Ferrer & Chicane. There was no Shazam then and technology wasn’t as developed as it is today, so it was a hobby of mine to remember parts of the lyrics of tracks I heard in the club and then spend hours at home trying to find those songs. I would make CDs with my favorite tracks and give them to my friends. At that time I didn’t have any intention whatsoever to become a DJ, but those little things were the foundations of my passion for music. When I started DJing on a serious level, my sound was slightly more underground, influenced by artists like Âme, Dixon, & Maceo Plex.
What do you consider to be the most special and high-impact moments in your career?
I curated many events in NYC, where I met lots of people in the scene, from fellow DJs, to promoters and managers. Those connections allowed me to be booked at many events where I was able to share the decks with some big artists. So I’d say every connection I’ve made and every party I’ve thrown and promoted have had a huge impact in my career. Also, I have to mention the first time I played at Gospel in NYC and Gitano in Tulum as two of the most special moments in my career. Everything, from the copal & palosanto smell from the moment you walk in, to the organic, tribal and intriguing decor, to the crowd dancing all night and living the moment in harmony with each other was just hard to find anywhere else back then.
Can you give us your thoughts on what makes an amazing set?
Reading the crowd and taking them on a musical journey is to me what makes a great set. Playing the right track at the right time, without limiting yourself to a specific genre, bpm, etc, is essential. I like to have a balance between new and old tracks, from disco to 80’s stuff, to house in all its forms, and hidden edits and versions of known and unknown tracks. There are times when I like to be adventurous and if the moment allows it, I play tracks that the crowd won’t expect, or tracks they haven’t heard in years. This will trigger good memories and put a smile on their face, making the night memorable.
Who is your favorite artist on the scene right now and why?
There are some amazing artists out there, so I can’t mention just one. I love and have loved the guys from Keinemusik since I started getting serious about DJing. They have this amazing blend of melodic elements with African sounds and I think they are some of the pioneers of the current sound in Afro House, with nostalgic piano riffs and groovy afro percussion sounds.
Moo & Jo’s tracks are also super refreshing and work amazing on the dance floor. I also love The Soul Brothers. Their ability to create the textures they create and to incorporate samples of old Mexican and latin folk songs is unbelievable. I’d also like to give a special mention to Apache. No one brings people together in Miami the way he and his team do.
Where do you think music is heading next?
I think the scene is somewhat repetitive, with everyone playing the same tracks all the time. So, I see two tendencies ahead. First, I think more people will move towards live sets, with live instruments and synthesizers. Secondly, I feel there is going to be a shift towards disco and funky, happier vibes instead of darker and aggressive stuff.
What’s your perfect Miami night? Best clubs in Miami Beach you would recommend?
Some of the best nights I’ve had have happened spontaneously. I feel there needs to be a balance between planning how to start the night and letting the night take you on a journey to unplanned destinations. So, in a perfect night in Miami, I would plan to start at Joia with my crew, sipping on one of those delicious mezcal cocktails they craft and watching the sunset (I have a thing for sunsets – they me of the amazing things we have for free in the world and that we shouldn’t take for granted), all that while listening to some great uplifting music for the soul. After that, I would let the night take me and my crew (and other people I meet along the way) to wherever we are destined to be at that moment, and enjoy that element of surprise along the way.
What are some of the off-the-radar hidden gems in Miami? Favorite Food in Miami Beach?
I love history, nature and landscapes. Along those lines, Deering Estate and the Spanish Monastery are fantastic places to visit. For food, there is an amazing Japanese omakase spot hidden behind a taquería in Wynwood called Hiden. I also love Tigre and Kojin for drinks and food.
Favorite quote to live by?
“We rise by lifting others.”
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