We chat with dance music icon David Morales about his first full-length studio album in over a decade, Life Is A Song — out now via DIRDIM Records.
With more than 500 original productions and remixes and two Grammy awards to his name, David Morales is one of America’s most iconic and prolific DJ/producers. He’s even worked alongside some of the world’s most venerated music superstars, including Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and more.
Despite his numerous distinctions, he’s never been one to rest on his laurels. He launched the DIRIDIM Records imprint in 2018, which has served as an outlet for the Morales’ immensely groovy and pivotal strain of house. Releases have come from newcomers and veteran artists alike, including DJ Meme, Frankie Ferrera, G.Zamora, and D-Tribe. And with 2022 here David has revealed his label’s most significant release to date.
After hitting the studio hard over the past two years, David Morales will release his first album in over a decade. Called Life Is A Song, the LP spans 15 tracks and is loaded with collaborative singer/songwriters both new and old. Check it out below.
We caught up with Morales to learn more about his album, what he has in store for his record label, how he spends his Sundays, and more.
You’re releasing your first album in over a decade, Life Is A Song — a 15-track LP bursting with heart and groove. How long has it been in the works? And how are you feeling about sharing it with the world?
I’ve been working on this new album for the last two years. The first song was actually “Life Is A Song” when the pandemic started. I’ve actually written and produced over 40 tracks. I’ve had to narrow it down to just 15 for now and release the rest over the next few months. I wanted to just release an album with just songs coming from different styles. I’m a DJ first so I’m inspired by a lot of new sounds. I feel very good about this album.
After 10 years, what are some of the main differences you see between this album and your 2012 LP, Changes?
Well, I’m in a different mindset for one, and the technology has evolved big time since then. The new technology has allowed me to be more hands-on.
Life Is A Song features established names you’ve collaborated with before, like Ultra Nate, as well as some newer artists. Who are they? And how did you link up with them?
Yes, I have worked with Ultra Nate before but everyone else is a new collaboration. It all happened organically. Blakkat I met through Hector Romero because I just happen to be mixing one of his tracks. Hector also introduced me to Michelle Perera. She was a contestant on The Voice in Italy. Joe Roberts, I remixed two of his songs in the ‘90s. Elle Cato I hooked up when we did “And I’m Telling You.” All in all it’s been great working with such amazing talent.
Can you tell us a bit about your Sunday Mass show on Twitch? How has livestreaming since the pandemic changed your perspective as a DJ?
I’ve put a lot of time and energy into Sunday Mass. I have a great Twitch family as well which makes it a lot of fun. I never thought that I would still be on Twitch two years later. I have to say that being on Twitch has really been a blessing for me. It has allowed me to remember what DJing was all about and it influenced me as a producer.
What plans do you have for your DIRIDIM imprint in 2022?
I plan on concentrating more on the label and releasing more music.
