Trading Hoops for House: NSJ’s Early Leap into Music
NSJ
This week, The Groove Palace introduces NSJ, a Cuban-born, Miami-raised DJ and producer whose sound fuses Latin rhythms, hip-hop roots, and underground tech house grooves. Inspired by his Cuban heritage and the diverse cultures of Miami, NSJ has crafted a style that stands out—raw, rhythmic, and undeniably infectious.
From his early days DJing as a teenager to electrifying international crowds in Argentina, NSJ’s journey is a testament to his dedication and vision. His sets are a celebration of groove and energy, bridging the underground scene with a fresh, boundary-pushing perspective that feels both global and unmistakably Miami.
Dive into his exclusive mix and experience the sound of NSJ—where Latin percussion meets underground house for a vibe that’s impossible to resist. Out now exclusively on our SoundCloud.
Raised between Cuba and Miami, NSJ discovered his calling early. Basketball may have been the initial dream, but the moment he touched a Newmark Mixdeck Pro at just 12 years old, everything changed. His love for music eclipsed sports, and a pivotal moment at Ultra Music Festival 2013, watching Martin Garrix, solidified his path: “That’s when I knew—I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.”
Switching Gears: From Big Room to Trap and Beyond
NSJ’s early influences were rooted in the big room EDM wave of the 2010s—think Afrojack, Martin Garrix, and Hardwell. But his sound evolved. By 2016, trap and hybrid trap took over, fueled by mentors like Ricky Remedy and the Carnage-led movement. This period brought support from trap giants and opened new doors.
Yet, NSJ stepped away from electronic music briefly, diving into hip-hop beats and reggaeton production. “I got introduced to the pitching game, making beats for people, and I drifted for a bit,” he admits. But in 2022, when tech house began resurging with a fresh energy, NSJ found his way back home to electronic music: “I realized, what the f*** am I doing? I had to get back to my roots.”
The Cuban Groove: A Sound That Sets Him Apart
With Cuban rhythms coursing through his veins, NSJ’s sound blends tradition with innovation. He’s inspired by Cuba’s rich musical heritage—salsa, timba, and conga beats—and injects them into tech house grooves. “We have different pockets in our music that translate perfectly into other genres,” he explains. This gives NSJ’s music its distinct flavor, a sound that stands out in a crowded scene.
He avoids falling into predictable rhythms, always looking to push boundaries. “I like to break away from the typical patterns of tech house. I want to create flows and grooves you’ve never heard before.”
Milestones and Moments: From Life In Color to Global Stages
The journey from bedroom producer to performing internationally wasn’t overnight. NSJ’s confidence soared after playing Life In Color, where he crushed his set in front of 200 people. That was just the beginning. Since then, standout tracks like “Mariposa” and “Lucero” have garnered local and international support, from names like Acraze and Jay de Lys.
His proudest performance to date? Argentina. “It was raw energy, man. Nobody’s on their phones—everyone’s dancing, grooving, and living in the moment. It doesn’t compare to anywhere else.”
NSJ’s success stems from a mix of consistency, hustle, and faith: “You need to know this is what you want for life. It’s not easy—it takes sacrifice, time, and dedication.”
A Vision Bigger Than Life
For NSJ, the goal is clear: to build a brand that’s “bigger than life.” He sees his music as a bridge, connecting the underground tech house scene with rap and pop influences—without losing its raw edge. “Everyone who’s tried to do it before has gone commercial. I want to show people our world and do it tastefully, with integrity.”
He’s also passionate about inspiring others: “No matter where you come from, you can do this. It sounds cliché, but it’s true. You just need the right focus and energy.”
Looking Ahead: NSJ’s 2024 Blueprint
With international tours on the horizon, major collaborations in the works, and upcoming releases that promise to be game-changers, NSJ’s momentum is undeniable. He’s already achieved milestones that most dream of, but for him, this is only the beginning:
“I’m ready to take this sound worldwide and bring the Miami culture with me. This is just the start of something big.”