Like many dance artists, Vintage Culture is no stranger to touring. But after nearly two years of not being able to play shows, the Brazilian DJ/producer made sure this year was jam-packed — and as he puts it, he's on "the endless tour of 2023."
Vintage Culture has dates plotted around the world through Dec. 9, playing countless shows and festivals including Lollapalooza Stockholm, EXIT Festival in Serbia, and Burning Man in Nevada. He even launched his own series of one-man festivals — aptly titled Vintage is a Festival — in his native Brazil, which will see him perform for 12 hours across three stages.
"It is a joy to be back on the road, and though there are times when I miss my home, I'm grateful for every moment," Vintage Culture (whose birth name is Lukas Ruiz) tells GRAMMY.com. "This is what I worked for. This is what I sacrificed for. I'm honored to reach fans around the world through music."
Even as he's been traversing the globe and planning festivals, Vintage Culture has also managed to put out new music in 2023. Along with collaborations with Izzy Bizu, Elderbrook, Franky Wah, and Bhaskar, Meca, and The Vic, the producer also issued Vintage Culture & Friends, Vol. 5 as well as his own reimagining of the Clash's '80s classic "Rock the Casbah."
Just before returning to Brazil for Só Track Boa Festival on May 26, Vintage Culture shared some of his favorite moments from his 2023 tour so far. Take a look at some onstage and behind-the-scenes shots, captioned by the DJ/producer himself.
All photos by Fabrizio Pepe, Nelson Struder or Rodrigo Kost.
February 3, São Paulo, Brazil: My traditional pre-tour photo session with the best photographer in Brazil — Fabrizio Pepe. We've worked together for years, and he's one of my closest friends. For either Live Photos or Studio shoots, Fabrizio is the man for the job.
March 25, Miami, FL (Ultra Festival): Dom Dolla and I did a back-to-back DJ set for the Ultra Festival in March. The heat from the flames around us was intense. During the set, Dom jokes, "How do you like your DJs cooked — well done?"
March 27, London, UK (Printworks): It hurts saying goodbye to one of the best clubs in the world — Printworks in London. But I choose to remember the brilliant times I experienced at this venue. The club's atmosphere, professional staff and audience made the whole experience unforgettable. I'm proud to have performed at this iconic venue in London.
April 2, São Paulo, Brazil: To have close friendships on the road makes being away from home easier. Gorgon City have become supportive, dear friends. It's always a pleasure to see them. I joined Gorgon City on stage in April for their awesome show in Brazil. My single, "Rock the Casbah," was also released on Gorgon City's record label, Realm. Great artists and a great team behind them.
April 14, Indio, CA (Coachella Valley): Having worked so hard for a decade, I was filled with pride to see the warm welcome I received from the Coachella Festival. Performing here was the fulfillment of a lifelong ambition. The show was everything I've dreamt about.
April 14, Indio, CA (Coachella): What a day! I performed right before blink-182 at Coachella. The audience was mixed with dance music and rock music fans. It was inspiring to see how music unites people from all corners of the world. The excitement in the air was palpable. This was a show I'll remember for the rest of my life.
April 22, Las Vegas, NV: I had the honor of remixing Jamie Jones' smash club hit, "Paradise." Seeing him again in Las Vegas was a great surprise. We talked about the success of the track and future music together.
April 29, Brasilia, Brazil (Vintage Is A Festival): In Brazil my one-man festival is called, Vintage Is A Festival. On April 29th, 17,000 fans united for a sold-out stadium show in Brasilia, BR. Before touring the world, I worked hard to build a fanbase in my homeland. My fans in Brazil are like family to me. I'm humbled by their loyalty and work hard every day to earn it.
May 10, Amsterdam, NL (Cruise Control Studios): Throughout this whirlwind tour I'm working on my debut album. This album is the biggest event of my recording career. In Amsterdam I had a few days off and checked into Cruise Control Studios. I put the polishing touches on new tracks and recorded beautiful vocals by Ali Love.
May 13, Ibiza Airport: Ibiza has become my second home. The beauty of the island and the warmth of the people is like nowhere else in the world. 2023 is my second year as a resident for Hï Ibiza. I'm thrilled to be back!
May 13, Ibiza (Cafe Mambo): Fisher and I have a tradition of doing an intimate warm-up show at Cafe Mambo in Ibiza. No one makes me laugh like Fisher. On stage and off, he's one of the funniest people I know. Fisher is a great friend and talented artist. My residency at Hï Ibiza is now underway!