A series where music lovers share some of their hidden gems.

Number 89 is by Que Sakamoto, a Japanese selector.

Tell me about your musical roots

I started listening to music like reggae, jazz, hip-hop, ambient, dub, and jungle through radio shows, cassette tapes, and CDs. Then, in the early 2000s, I began going to clubs. The music scene in Japan at that time was amazing, it was mostly psytrance, techno, and progressive house.One day, I realized I really wanted to become a DJ because music has the power to make people happy. I learned DJing from my sound engineer and remixer, NT (Noriyuki Takagi).

Are there any artists, cultures, or places that particularly influence you?

Desyn is my music teacher and brother. I was deeply inspired when he played in Tokyo. We became friends, and he shared a lot of music with me. I also learned so much about what music truly is. He is my teacher and my hero.I love Brazil, Brazil changed my life with its incredible artists and music. Craig Ouer, Carrot Green, and Milton from the amazing Core Soundsystem invited me twice to Bruma Festival in Silva Jardim, Rio. It was the most incredible festival I had ever experienced. Jane Fitz and Marco Shuttle were amazing, and I gained so much inspiration. Waha Festival in Romania, I met many artists there and had the chance to listen to Rhadoo’s closing set was godly. Truly magical.And, of course, Berlin, I will never forget my Panorama Bar debut. My slot was from Sunday at 8 PM to Monday at midnight. Wow. I still have such amazing memories.And Club der Visionaere, a four-hour Sunday night set, what a great experience. The crowd, the vibe, and the CDV family, beautiful.There’s so much more I want to share, but it would be a long story… so I’ll leave it at that!

What speaks to you when you’re searching for new music?

I travel a lot across Europe, Brazil, South America, the USA, Asia, and Australia and I'm always on a deep search for records whether in record shops, collectors' houses, or vintage stores. I love digging and discovering new records.I also check Discogs and Bandcamp regularly, as well as Instagram posts from collectors and DJs.

Do you have a non-musical activity that inspires you? If so, why?

I love spending time in nature it always gives me energy and helps reset my mind. Being spiritual keeps me positive and happy.

What helps you to take care of your well-being?

I swim and surf whenever I'm near the beach or a pool. I love swimming because it makes me strong. I also eat a lot of açaí, especially in Brazil!

‍

‍

‍

‍