Interview

Catching Up With: Fabrice

The Dubai-based artist has an action-packed year ahead

DJ & producer Fabrice is quickly becoming known for his energetic sets and genre-blending sound that fuses deep tech, house, and techno with hip-hop undertones. With a residency at Pacha Ibiza and FIVE Hotels & Resorts in Dubai, he’s performed alongside industry giants like Loco Dice, Joseph Capriati, and Marco Carola in recent months, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting emerging talents in the music industry.

We sat down with Fabrice to talk about his career to date, how he navigates producing different sounds in the studio and his passions outside of music.

Hey Fabrice, thank you for sitting down with us! To kick things off, what motivated you to become a music artist? Did you have any particular inspirations growing up? 

From a young age, I always dreamed of pursuing a career in music, even when it felt out of reach. Despite not having access to the resources to kickstart my journey, I had a gut feeling that I could create and share my own sound and vision with the world. Growing up, I drew inspiration from a lot of artists.

On the hip-hop side, I was influenced by legends that included A$AP Rocky, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Biggie, and Eminem. Then the electronic music scene captivated me through pioneers such as Juan Atkins, Daft Punk, Green Velvet, Loco Dice, Michael Bibi, ANOTR, and Pawsa. Their unique sounds fuelled my passion and motivated me to carve my own path in the industry.

Your residency at Ibiza’s Pacha and Dubai’s FIVE has seen you share the stage with heavyweight names such as Loco Dice, Franky Rizardo and Frank Storm. Have there been any standout gigs or moments in your time playing at these clubs?

The spontaneous back-to-back set with Loco Dice in November 2024 was legendary; his flow elevated the entire experience. My Defected debut for New Year’s Eve 2024 at Bohemia Beach Club was also massive, and closing after Joseph Capriati at ICONS by Pacha at The Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club at FIVE LUXE was surreal. 

The vibe at FIVE Hotels and Resorts is absolutely insane — it’s a perfect blend of energy, excitement, and a sense of pure freedom. The atmosphere comes alive from its surroundings, with the sun shining down on the pool and the beach just steps away… As the beats drop, the crowd transforms into a unified force; you can feel the thrill as everyone lets loose, dancing and completely immersed in the music. Every gig holds a special place in my heart; each moment feels like the best thing that’s ever happened to me. And still, I believe the best is yet to come! 

You’re set to perform alongside another industry legend at FIVE this April; Black Coffee, as well as returning to Ibiza this summer. Are there any particular shows you’re looking forward to?

Sharing the stage with Loco Dice for my first-ever performance at Pacha Ibiza on 9th May is something I can’t stop thinking about. It’s a dream come true! Pacha Ibiza is such a revered venue that has set the standard for nightlife around the world, known for its legendary parties and iconic DJs. The atmosphere, iconic twin cherry theme, and history of performances make it a solid nucleus for music lovers. Being part of that legacy is beyond exciting, and I can’t wait to contribute my own energy to a nightclub that’s defined the party scene for decades.

I’m also looking forward to playing alongside Mochakk for Pacha ICONS in Dubai on 25th April. He’s a game changer, and I can’t wait to see what magic we create together.

How do you approach piecing together your residency sets vs touring? Are there any key differences when creating your playlists or DJing style? 

Music is the foundation of my life, so it’s natural for me to be constantly digging for inspiration, whether it’s for a show outside of my residency or not. The difference is in how I approach my residency gigs; they feel like home to me. This comfort allows me to experiment with new and unexpected ideas and take risks. Being in a familiar space makes it easier to develop my skills and innovate during performances, rather than being solely focused on reading an unfamiliar crowd in a different venue.

At FIVE Hotels and Resorts, the welcoming atmosphere is supportive for performers; the platform it provides for artists fosters creativity and collaboration, allowing us to shine. This environment encourages experimentation and connection, making it even more rewarding to share my music with the audience.

You’ve released music on the likes of HE.SHE.THEY, LW Recordings and Golf Channel Recordings. Are there any bucket list labels in your sights for the coming year?

This year, I’ve been focused on refining my sound and honing my skills to deliver a more authentic version of myself. I’ve been busy in the studio crafting and refining a sound that resonates with labels such as Solid Grooves, Desolat, Serán Bendecidos, Defected, Crosstown Rebels, and Cuttin’ Headz. My ultimate goal is to launch my own record label.

Your diverse sound spans various different genres, switching between deep tech and minimal to uplifting trance and techno. How do you go about navigating these different sounds in the studio? Do you have a preferred genre? 

My music has always been rooted in creating heavy grooves that invite people to dance, but lately, I’ve shifted my focus to the emotions I want to convey through my sound. I’ve started incorporating my own vocals to add a personal touch to my tracks. So, rather than confining myself to a specific genre, I navigate my emotions and explore what I truly want to express.

My preferred genre blends tech, deep tech, house, and hip-hop/urban, with subtle elements of techno. While I have more ideas brewing in my mind, I recognise that some artists are already excelling in these areas.

Following on from that, what’s your go-to DAW software and why? What would be your advice to new producers trying getting their head around how DAWs work?

Ableton was the first DAW I jumped into, and I immediately felt comfortable with its user interface and fluidity, which made the creative process seamless for me. My advice is to find what resonates with you personally — there’s no universally right or wrong choice. Everyone has different needs, so the best approach is to consider how free and inspired you feel when creating with each option.

Outside of music, how do you like to spend your downtime? Do you have any other passions?

I have a deep passion for fashion, fitness, mental and spiritual wellness, studying, specialty coffee — and matcha. I’m also driven by the desire to develop business ideas that can enhance and streamline everyday life. If I had an unlimited budget, I’d create my own fashion brand, open a wellness-focused specialty coffee shop with a large library, and open a music studio alongside a minimalist art gallery. This space would showcase clothes that reflect the unique pieces of art and embodies my vision.

Looking further ahead in 2025, can you tell us about any other exciting projects or plans you’re working on? 

I’m diving headfirst into my Pacha Ibiza residency, surrounded by industry peers who inspire me and share my passion for music. The months ahead are about intensity — hitting the studio daily, feeling the energy as my tracks light up venues across Ibiza and beyond, and gearing up for next year’s releases. 

I’m eagerly anticipating a series of exciting events at FIVE Hotels and Resorts in Dubai! I recently played a standout gig on 15th February at The Penthouse Dubai at FIVE Palm Jumeirah alongside Mason Collective. The Penthouse Dubai has an energy that’s just magnetic — it’s tough to put into words, you have to be there to experience it. 

On 21st February, I performed at Playa Pacha at FIVE LUXE for the Mayan Warrior, featuring WhoMadeWho, Adam Ten, and Bubu. The next day, I was at Bohemia Beach Club for Defected, sharing the stage with Hot Since 82 and Honeyluv. I’ll return to Playa Pacha on 3rd April for a set with Black Coffee and Parallelle, then back to Bohemia Beach Club on 5th April for Defected.

On 25th April, I’ll perform alongside Mochakk and Gerd Janson back at Playa Pacha, followed by an extended set with Miguelle & Tons and Ben Sterling at Bohemia Beach Club on 26th April . Finally, I’ll be in Ibiza on 9th May at Pacha Ibiza, joining Loco Dice for a night which I’m sure I’ll remember for many years to come!

Finally, what’s your favourite track by another artist that you wish you’d made?

The DJ Tennis remix of ‘Roots.’ I still get goosebumps with that one.

More about Fabrice’s upcoming Pacha Ibiza events can be found here