Michael Mendoza: from law to legacy, how pure redefined Amsterdam’s nightlife
From law school to late nights, Michael Mendoza has built an empire out of rhythm, relationships, and reinvention. As Amsterdam Dance Event 2025 marks two decades of friendship and collaboration with Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Mendoza stands as a bridge between the city’s golden era of clubbing and its modern reawakening.
Two decades deep, Mendoza’s story reads like a masterclass in evolution. Once a law student with a steady future, he chose the uncertainty of the decks over the courtroom. “Following my passion for music was the best professional decision I could have made,” he reflects. “Even after all these years, I still feel like I’m only getting started.”
The Circle Returns: Genesis at ADE
This year’s Genesis at Amaze Amsterdam isn’t just another ADE showcase; it’s a reunion of purpose. Mendoza, Sunnery James, and Ryan Marciano first connected twenty years ago, before any of them had the spotlight. “There was no strategy, just chemistry,” he recalls. “They started playing my tracks, mentioning me in interviews… that changed everything. Genesis is a celebration of that original connection, the same energy that brought us together is what keeps us going.”
The Afro House Renaissance
To Mendoza, the recent surge of Afro and tribal house isn’t a trend, it’s a revival of house’s true roots. “Afro house has always been the heartbeat,” he says. “It never disappeared; people are just listening again. The rhythm, the emotion, the percussion, this is the DNA of dance music. And now, it’s more inclusive, more emotional, and more accessible than ever.”
PURE: Redefining the Night
PURE has become one of Amsterdam’s most coveted events: three sold-out nights at Het Sieraad prove it. But Mendoza insists it’s not just about the party; it’s about purpose. “There’s a gap in nightlife for people who’ve grown up but still want to dance,” he explains. “PURE bridges that space between fine dining and the dancefloor. It’s experience-driven, stylish, and inclusive; nightlife for people who care about music, comfort, and community.”
While PURE unites, Senses goes deeper; Mendoza’s more intimate concept that focuses on emotion and connection. “PURE reaches wide, Senses reaches deep,” he smiles. “It’s not about booking big names; it’s about booking energy.”
The New Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s nightlife is changing fast. Clubbing has evolved into a lifestyle experience, with venues like Daalder, The Siren, and Het Sieraad defining a new era of music-meets-luxury. “Nightlife hasn’t disappeared,” says Mendoza, “it’s transforming. People want more than just a DJ; they want feeling, community, identity. That’s what we deliver.”
Legacy in Motion
Having released on powerhouse labels like Armada, Defected, and Spinnin’, Mendoza credits his mentors Sunnery, Ryan, and DJ Chuckie for his staying power. “Everyone has their own beginning and middle,” he says. “Just make sure you’re still dancing at the end.”
Now, as he works on his debut album and expands PURE worldwide, Mendoza is writing the next chapter, one that stretches beyond nightlife and into legacy. “We’re growing, as artists, as partners, as people. This is only the beginning.”
Genesis by Michael Mendoza, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano takes place October 23, 2025, at Amaze Amsterdam / Warehouse Elementenstraat during ADE.
