Ospina Digital Moving Global Music

What is the mission of Ospina Digital?

To build a solid roster of artists that is rooted in the club scene but with an eye towards artist development and cross-over potential. At the end of the day this business is about songs and I want to reflect that. I also want the Ospina brand to communicate quality as we move forward with more parties, compilations, albums and even a new clothing line that is in the works.

What is the process to signing an Ospina Digital project?

I tend to be very picky about what I sign; it has to be special. I take my time and try to find music that will work on the dancefloor and radio. I tend to go for the deeper, latin vibe but I do have an ear for quality music; good music will always be good music whether it is considered pop or underground. I use remixes to broaden the appeal of all my releases so I am not known for one sound.

How does your background as a keyboard player serve you today?

I actually never intended to be a dj and was happy to play on other people's tracks. My knowledge of song structure and chords helps me make music that moves people. I have taken that background and now study how people react to different elements of a song or to different effects. It has allowed me to be versatile with my work.

Who have been your biggest influences?

Johnny DeMairo of Atlantic Records gave me a chance to work some fantastic projects that enjoyed wild commercial success like Brittany Spears, Full Intention, Randy Crawford, Gipsy Kings, Backstreet Boys, Enrique Iglesias , Mark Anthony, etc. Working on remix projects with David Morales was also very key and my partnerships with Oscar Poche and Def Mix Productions have opened many doors.

How has the industry changed since the 1990's when the sky seemed to be the limit?

The opportunities to do crossover pop work are less available and much less profitable. The scene is not as close and you have to really work to stand out in a crowded field. There are no longer parties where you can see every major NYC producer in the same venue and fewer big hits. You need to wear more hats to succeed.

What can we expect from you and Ospina Digital in the future?

A lot of good things are coming up. Collaborating with Carla "Love Rush" Werner, which is a great honor and something I am fired up about. The remixes on "Well Of Love" featuring MJ White are about to drop and the response has been awesome and has just been licensed to GaGa Records in Luxembourg. We just remixed Lidell Townsell's classic "Nu Nu"; hot!! Can't forget to mention new projects with Jonn Hawley "Got Love", 4 Tha People "Musica" featuring Portugal's Mikie Wilde and my remix of "Love Lies Life" by Oli Brooke featuring Kylie Auldi. All these things will work to help me bring my style and talent to a wider audience.

Best case scenario, what things will you be doing down the road?

I would really like to get more involved in playing the festival circuit. I would also relish the opportunity to do a full length album although it would surely be a big challenge. I'd like to see Toma Media find more ways to serve the website, graphics and promotional delivery needs of the music industry.

Where are your next hot gigs located?

Of course Miami is going to serious! In April I am going to Costa Rica for the Monteczuma Gathering and then Bogota, Colombia. Still negotiating on some long term gigs in NYC, etc.

Where do you weigh in on all the WMC controversy?

I look at the whole thing like a zoo. There are lots of attractions at the zoo, none more important than the other. Ultra is like the extra attraction at the WMC Zoo, useful but not essential. WMC is still important and should be supported because it made the growth of UltraFest possible. I am excited about playing the Deep Hype Showcase and Louie Vega's Roots party, etc.

How do you intend to take advantage of WMC this year?

Continue to play and network all the parties, especially looking to connect with dj/producers from overseas. I will be promoting the next installment of "Say House Miami" featuring SuSu Bobien, Inaya Day, etc. The focus will be on some tracks that may have slipped through the cracks that deserve to have more light shown on them. I am also trying to do new sounds and hearing all the great djs in Miami will definitely inspire me to be more creative whether it be deep, latin, tribal or big room vibes.

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