Unveiling Cardo’s Hidden Gems: Exclusive Interview on The Groove Palace
CARDO (MIA)
In this special feature, we dive deep into the creative mind of Miami local DJ and producer, Cardo. From discovering EDM through unexpected sources to performing at some of Miami’s hottest venues, Cardo has a story that’s as rich as the beats he creates. Join us as we explore his journey, insights, and passion for the music that has shaped him into the artist he is today.
Dance is in His Blood
For Cardo, music wasn’t just something that entered his life — it was embedded in his DNA. Growing up in a Puerto Rican household filled with the vibrant sounds of salsa and house music, Cardo found himself immersed in rhythm from a young age. His father, a regular at iconic clubs like Limelight in New York, always had music playing at home.
“I grew up with house music constantly playing in the background, thanks to my dad. Tracks like ‘Gypsy Woman’ were just part of the daily soundtrack at home. I didn’t even realize it was house music at the time — it was just what we listened to.”
Cardo’s early connection to dance went beyond just casual interest. He became a national champion, ranking among the top 50 dancers in the U.S., and trained rigorously from age eight. His natural movement on the dance floor eventually translated into his unique approach to DJing.
“My parents even met salsa dancing, and there’s videos of me as a baby dancing to music at home. It’s always been part of who I am.”
Discovering EDM and Early Influences
Cardo’s introduction to electronic music wasn’t through the usual club scenes or festivals. In fact, it all started with something far more mainstream — TV commercials.
“It’s funny, my first real taste of EDM came from the Kia Soul Hamster commercials. I remember being so curious about the song, which led me down a rabbit hole. From there, I discovered artists like Skrillex, Bassnectar, and Major Lazer.”
He recalls how Spotify and Shazam were instrumental in helping him uncover new music, which ultimately fueled his passion for EDM.
“I’d use Spotify’s algorithm to find more tracks. It was around the time when Skrillex was blowing up, and the radio was filled with electronic sounds. That really set me off on my journey.”
The Transition to House Music
While Cardo started off deeply immersed in EDM, his defining moment came when he realized house music had always been part of his life, even if he didn’t initially recognize it.
“At Okeechobee Festival in 2018, I was watching people shuffle and asked, ‘What is this music?’ Someone told me it was house, and suddenly everything clicked. I realized I’d been listening to house music my whole life without even knowing it.”
This epiphany set the stage for Cardo’s transition into house music, where he found his true artistic calling.
DJing: The Beginning of a Lifelong Passion
Cardo’s first steps into DJing were inspired by a desire to share his love for music with others. A gift from his ballroom coach — a DJ controller — became the catalyst for his eventual obsession with mixing.
“I was gifted a DJ controller when I was 12 or 13, but I didn’t take it seriously at first. It wasn’t until later, when a friend and I started experimenting, that it all clicked for me. My first transition was terrible, but it was a moment that changed my life.”
From there, DJing consumed his life, and he spent countless hours practicing with friends, skipping class, and staying up all night to perfect his craft.
From DJing to Producing: A Natural Evolution
Cardo’s journey into production came during the pandemic, which gave him the time and space to develop a new skill set.
“Covid was a blessing in disguise for me. Ableton extended their free trial to 90 days, and I took full advantage. I locked myself in and learned as much as I could. By the time the trial ended, I was hooked.”
He reflects on how producing took his DJing to the next level, allowing him to create his own art rather than just mixing other people’s music.
“DJing is like making a collage — you’re putting together pieces of other people’s work. But producing is creating the images yourself. That’s where the real satisfaction comes in.”
Mentorship and Learning from the Best
As Cardo honed his craft, he sought out guidance from established producers to help him level up. One of his most impactful experiences was working with Ky William, a producer he met through a show they played together.
“Ky William was the first person I took a one-on-one class with. After we played a show together, I asked him if he would give me a lesson, and that one-on-one time was the clearest level-up in my skills.”
Cardo also had the opportunity to work with Max Chapman, one of his favorite artists, whose influence has left a lasting impact on his production style.
“Max Chapman is my favorite artist, hands down. I got the chance to meet him and take a few lessons. Those sessions were life-changing for me. Max’s approach to music is all about the fundamentals — he taught me that once you get the basics down, everything else will fall into place.”
Max’s mentorship had a profound effect on Cardo’s growth, not only technically but also in shaping his mindset as a producer.
“Max showed me that it’s not about the gear or the plugins — it’s about personal choice and the art that comes from within. The way he approaches music has stayed with me ever since, and I’ve been able to release multiple tracks based on what I learned from him.”
Creative Process and Preparing for Shows
When it comes to preparing for a show, Cardo approaches each set with careful thought and preparation. For his recent 3-hour set at 1–800-Lucky, he spent significant time curating the perfect selection of tracks that reflect who he is as an artist.
“I go through almost all of my music and make sure I’m playing stuff that represents who I am today. I want to keep the energy alive but also showcase my personal style, with tracks from artists I’ve been following for forever, like Max Chapman and Latmun.”
Cardo is known for blending unreleased tracks and hidden gems, creating a unique experience for each audience.
Advice for Aspiring DJs and Producers
Cardo’s advice for up-and-coming DJs and producers is simple: be present, contribute, and stay disciplined.
“You have to put in the work — there’s no shortcut. Contribute to your local scene, promote shows, help out with events, and just be there. That’s how I got my first opportunities. And don’t bite off more than you can chew; the industry can eat you alive if you’re not careful.”
He also emphasizes the importance of working hard and staying honest, noting that word of mouth and relationships are key in the music industry.
“Follow your gut and be consistent. The music industry isn’t corporate, there’s no clear path or promotions — it’s all about the next project and who you know. But if you put in the effort and work with integrity, you’ll find success.”
Cardo’s 3-hour mix is now available exclusively on The Groove Palace SoundCloud, filled with unreleased tracks and a journey through his signature sound.