At only 23 years of age, DJ/producer Pedro Mendes, also known by his moniker Illusionize, has left his mark in the electronic dance music world. Since his claim to fame hit “Bass” a few years back, his popularity has seen exponential growth, with a fanbase that started in his native country of Brazil and now extends worldwide.
His name has appeared in our playlists for quite some time now, so it was a pleasure to finally get the chance to chat with the young talented producer. In our exclusive interview, we discussed his musical background, Brazil’s thriving music scene, career goals, and more. Check out the interview below and make sure to take a listen to Illusionize’s latest bass house banger “Diamonds”:
RR – Tell us a little about yourself and your musical background.
Illusionize – Well, I’m kinda new to this world. I’m only 23 years of age, 8 years as a DJ and 4 as Illusionize. I’m from the country side and made a bungee jump into this life. It seems to have worked! It became serious with time. Started producing when I bought my first computer, with 18. My first hit “Bass” was 3 years ago and since then my life changed completely. Today, I live in another city, constantly traveling. I hope to bring my music to the whole world one day.
RR – With festivals like Ultra Brazil, Tomorrowland Brazil, and Lollapalooza, we imagine the dance music scene is thriving in Brazil. Being a native, can you tell us more about the music scene in Brazil?
Illusionize – You can say that the electronic scene in Brazil is living it’s golden era. A lot of producers, big events, among other things that are happening.
RR – You played mainstage at Ultra Brazil this year. What was that experience like?
Illusionize – It was amazing!!!
RR – You’ve released some amazing tracks recently, including “House” and “Only You” with Bhaskar. Anything else in the works that we should be adding to our playlists?
Illusionize – Absolutely. Recently, I released a free remix that I had the opportunity to do for Chris Lake and in the beginning of 2018, there will be my next artist album. Really excited about that.
RR – Any plans to visit the US anytime soon?
Illusionize – Working hard to make that happen!
RR – As the year is quickly coming to a close, what would you say were some highlights from 2017?
Illusionize – One of my singles, Phoneline, and to be able to finish my artist album.
What are some of your goals for 2018?
Illusionize – A few, but my own Illusionize show, record label, and artist album.
RR – Any fun plans for New Years Eve?
Illusionize – Oh yes, a few great parties 😉
RR – This isn’t really a question, but we must say, we love how engaged you are with your fans!
Illusionize – This is something I do simply out of joy, you know? I really love doing that 🙂
Connect with Illusionize:
https://www.facebook.com/illusionizemusic
https://twitter.com/illusionizelive
https://soundcloud.com/illusionize
https://www.instagram.com/illusionizemusic
http://illusionizemusic.com