Skip to main content
DJ Mag Top100 DJs
72
Carta
1

Want proof that dance music is truly a global affair? Look no further than Carta, a Shanghai-based DJ and producer who's spent time in the UK and Hong Kong and is now one of the leading China-based DJs in the world. 

Ever-present in the Top 100 DJs chart since making his debut in 2017, Carta's had his biggest year to date with gigs in Amsterdam, America, Britain and across the length and breadth of China. 

When asked about the year's highlights, Carta tells us: “It’s been a fun journey finding myself musically and trying to stand out.” And that can be heard in his latest release 'Your Love,' possibly his best work to date. A breathless rush of slickly produced house music signed to Tiesto's Musical Freedom label, 'Your Love' rises and falls and pulses and burns, neatly updating the house music formula for 2019 and beyond. Then again, with that title, it had to live up to its premise. 

With China's club scene booming — check out the record number of Chinese clubs that made our Top 100 Clubs poll — Carta continues to grow and evolve, making him an excellent ambassador for the booming Chinese dance music scene. 

Do you submit your DJ setlists to the relevant royalties collecting society? 

“More and more, I have to provide setlists to the promoter in order to get the permit and for collecting societies so they know what music will be played at the event.”

What more can we do to combat the mental health crisis in our scene? 

“Working in music can get pretty lonely at times. You're always surrounded by a ton of people but at the same time, you're not. If we want to combat the mental health crisis in our scene we have to start talking about it more openly!” 

Are you personally doing anything to improve the gender balance of line-ups? 

“I don't get a lot of say when it comes to bookings but I'm always on the lookout for great artists and I make it a priority to equally consider both male and female collaborators and vocalists for my tracks.” 

What changes have you made this year to be more environmentally friendly?

“Mainly just small changes like turning off extra lights and using reusable containers.”

What was your favourite toy when you were a kid?

“I've always been a big fan of GameBoys [laughs]. I can't pick a favourite game ’cause they're all good.”

What’s your guilty pleasure?

“The show Gossip Girl.”