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Funk Tribu

A journey against all odds

  • Sergio Niño
  • 17 October 2024
Funk Tribu

In the world of electronic music, an artist’s journey often remains hidden behind the sparkle of stages and the energy of festivals. But for Funk Tribu, his path is as significant as the sound he produces. His life, marked by drastic changes and personal challenges, has shaped a career that continues to grow against all odds.

In an intimate conversation, Funk Tribu reflects on his origins in Bogotá, his new home in Berlin, and the difficult but rewarding road that has led him to create his upcoming album, Against All Odds.

THE CHALLENGE OF LEAVING EVERYTHING BEHIND FOR A DREAM

The last year and a half has been transformative for Funk Tribu. If someone had told him two years ago that he would be living in Europe, touring the world, and making music as his way of life, he admits he wouldn’t have believed it.

“When the opportunity to move to Europe and live my dream arose, I didn’t think twice. But it was terrifying to leave university at 21, leave my friends and family behind, and move to a continent where I don’t speak the language,” he confessed.

The adaptation process has not been easy. Although he now resides in Berlin, one of the world’s capitals of electronic music, he admits that sometimes it’s hard to feel completely at home. The nature of his career requires constant travel, which keeps him away from home, but over time he has learned to channel those feelings of uprootedness into his music.

Funk Tribu’s story is not just that of an emerging artist; it is that of someone who has had to confront fear and uncertainty to find confidence in his art.

“My Album, Against All Odds, is a mix of my past with my current life, mirroring the journey I was on to find and define my sound. Or better said, to be confident enough to embrace it. At some stage in my career, it was quite hard for me to play my productions at my shows, as I had the feeling that they don’t quite fit on stage. But with time I was able to embrace it more and more and be 100% confident with playing what I love to produce”.

He admits. Over time, as he gained confidence, he allowed himself to embrace his unique style and play his music without hesitation. This process of self-discovery is key to Against All Odds, a title that encapsulates not only his album but also his personal story.

BOGOTÁ AND BERLIN: THE DUALITY OF TWO WORLDS

Funk Tribu grew up in Bogotá, where he was introduced to electronic music at an early age, starting at just 9 years old. By 17, he began attending underground parties, and soon after, he was playing his first sets in the city.

“The first parties I played at are etched in my memory,” he recalls.

“Most of the time I played for empty rooms or just a few people, but for me, it was an honor to be able to play at an official event.”

That consistency, that desire to keep going no matter the circumstances, has forged his career ever since.

Living in Berlin has been an endless source of inspiration for him.

“Being surrounded by such creative and talented people and working with them in studio sessions is a great enrichment for my life,” he comments

The opportunity to tour Europe and other corners of the world has allowed him to explore new cultures and sounds, constantly challenging his limits and motivating him to try new things.

However, Bogotá remains a fundamental part of his artistic identity. Despite the distance, Funk Tribu continues to carry the memories and influences of his hometown with him. The memory of those early parties in small clubs in Bogotá is a constant reminder of how far he has come and how those humble beginnings prepared him for the bigger stages of the world.

A NEW HORIZON: THE EVOLUTION OF HIS SOUND

One of the most exciting aspects of Funk Tribu’s present is his evolution towards a live performance format that includes elements such as vocalists and musicians. His relationship with musical instruments, like the guitar, dates back to before his foray into electronic music when he taught himself to play by following YouTube tutorials.

“I’ve always identified more as a musician than as a techno artist,” he confesses.

The idea of incorporating vocalists and other instruments into his live performances arose after attending a Fred Again concert in Berlin.

“At that moment, I knew that was what I wanted to do in the future: combine the instruments I play with vocalists in a club or festival setting.”

This transition has not been without its challenges, but for Funk Tribu, each new experience on stage is an opportunity to grow as an artist. In his upcoming performance at ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event), he plans to take the first step toward this new direction, accompanied by vocalists Lucy Dye and CAIVA.

“I hope people feel the love and passion we’ve put into this project,” he says excitedly

AGAINST ALL ODDS

The title of Funk Tribu’s upcoming album, Against All Odds, is not just a reference to his struggle to carve out a space in the music industry; it also reflects a life philosophy.

“The artistic vision I’ve had from the beginning is to remain consistent, no matter what happens,” he asserts.

That consistency has been key to overcoming diffi cult moments, from playing in empty rooms in Bogotá to facing the growing pressure of fame.

Funk Tribu’s rise has not been easy. With success comes criticism and negative comments, something he admits he is still learning to deal with

“With growth also comes negative comments and haters, and that’s something I still struggle with,” he shares.

Fortunately, he has a supportive team, friends, and family who keep him grounded and help him stay focused on what truly matters. Despite the challenges, his passion for music is what keeps him motivated.

“The highs and lows of life are my creative fuel,” he says.

For him, music is not just a profession; it is his refuge, a safe space to turn to, no matter what is happening around him.

LOOKING AHEAD

Funk Tribu’s future looks full of possibilities. Recently, his fi rst recording for Boiler Room in Ghent marked a milestone in his career.

“I waited for the right offer for my Boiler Room broadcast, and I’m glad I chose Ghent. The crowd was on fi re, and the vibe was something completely different,” he comments.

This experience, along with his triumphant return to Bogotá to perform at the BAUM Festival in front of more than 10,000 people, are moments that have reinforced his vision for the future.

Regarding his role in the nu-trance movement, Funk Tribu is clear that his approach will remain true to himself and his sound, without being limited by industry expectations.

“I will continue breaking barriers in terms of genres and won’t let anything or anyone limit me.”

Funk Tribu’s journey is one of challenges, discoveries, and constant growth. With a persevering attitude and a deep connection to his roots, he continues to forge new paths in the global electronic scene, proving that, indeed, he has achieved it all against all odds

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