Marta Fierro, known artistically as EME DJ, is a highly successful DJ in Spain. She began her career as a DJ with determination, conquering success and making her mark in this industry. She has worked with important artists and has done collaborations that have only showcased her talent. She hasn't limited herself solely to her artistic formation but has gone beyond, teaching others this craft through the DJP Music School and raising awareness about mental health in the industry through Depresión en la cabina. EME DJ is an example of how, after hard work and a long journey, you can achieve success. People like her can only inspire others to do the same.
Tell us a little about yourself…
I am from Galicia and live in Madrid, although I spend periods in Sada (A Coruña) since my mother lives there. I am a DJ and my latest projects include the creation of Depresión en la cabina, a non-profit association that fights to raise awareness about mental health issues in the DJ and music producer environment. I am also a teacher and instructor of DJs at the DJP Music School and I am a professional DJ by vocation, striving to continue living off of it for as long as I can.
For how long have you been working as a DJ?
I have been a professional DJ for almost 20 years, it is my main source of income although for the past 6 years I have lived very precariously because it is a job that is still in the process of professionalizing within the music and nightlife industry. Until last year in Spain, we were not legally recognized; since 2023, we can be hired legally. It is also a profession that has a lot of job uncertainty; you don't know exactly when you're going to work and how much you're going to earn, in addition to the pressure you are exposed to, the working hours, the travel, not resting…
What are the pros of your job?
Thanks to being a DJ I had incredible experiences that I would have never had otherwise. I met people who somehow influenced me. I learnt from the good and the bad. It is a profession that, if better regulated, could be fantastic. It should be balanced with the lives of people who solely dedicate themselves to it since it is a job that takes up a lot of time. It is not just about playing on weekends; there is a lot of preparation and you have to do many things apart from just playing.
When did your interest in music begin and when did you realize that this passion could become your career?
When I was little I loved recording cassette tapes, then CDs, and later playlists. I was clear that it was something with which I expressed feelings, with songs by others. Being a DJ came more by chance but it was closely related to my idea of communication.
What did you study?
Film. I am in love with cinema. It gives me goosebumps, it excites me, I get positively nervous when I go to the movies. I did an internship as assistant director during my first years in Madrid on several shootings and I was combining it with working at a cinema, making popcorns. It was shortly after the Christmas season at the cinema when I had an anxiety attack and was put on sick leave which led to me being fired. I grew quite a dislike for shoots and popcorns. Fortunately, shortly after that, I started DJing more seriously.
How did you feel in your first practical experience?
I was very nervous; if I had to sum it up in two words, I would say nerves and nerves.
What is your favorite project you have worked on and why?
I have been lucky to work with artists I admire and produce and remix songs. The truth is that I really enjoyed the time when great artists wanted to work with me. I do not consider myself a producer since I believe that I am more of a DJ of other people's music and my way of composing is limited but I wish I had had more time to train and get more opportunities to work in production. On the other hand, one of the things I feel most privileged about is the zero gravity flight I took in Las Vegas with a beverage brand where I was invited as a DJ along with others like Zombie Kids, Ikki, or El Rubius. Being able to have been a DJ for Adidas at one point, creating sets for the brand, really made me feel special. However, right now, I am proud to have created something like Depresión en la cabina not only because it bears my mark but because it is serving a purpose, it is helping others. Last week we had the first online support session for DJs and producers, it was positively welcomed and that really makes me feel good.
Have you ever faced any difficulties as a woman?
Well, specifically, I haven't. Surely there are other women who have had a harder time than me but aside from the typical insults on social media, I don't think I've had difficulties because of that.
Who are your the singers who inspired you?
I like music because I like Michael Jackson.
How would you describe the Spanish music industry?
I don't know how it is outside but here there are two very marked schools: the new and the old ones. Both seek the same thing: to monetize everything. There's nothing wrong with that; the problem is that the product is increasingly undervalued.
What are your future projects?
To continue DJing, continue teaching, and continue with Depresión en la cabina.
Do you have any suggestions for those who wish to do your job?
To be a DJ, you have to be prepared: train, practice, have musical culture… I will be happy to welcome new DJs who are prepared.
Can you suggest a song from your country to our readers?
I suggest the Eurovision candidate by Nebulossa, Zorra.
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