We were lucky to catch up with Felipe Moya Alvarado recently and have shared our conversation below.

Felipe, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

The first time I earned money from my music as a DJ and producer in Costa Rica was a moment I’ll never forget, a blend of excitement, disbelief, and a rush of energy. It was around the time I had just started experimenting with my own beats and mixes. I had always been passionate about electronic music, but until that moment, I was doing it more for the love of the craft, not yet imagining the possibility of making a living from it.

One night, I was playing a small set at a local club in San José, a venue that had just opened and was starting to bring in crowds of people looking for something new. I had shared my mixes with some of the regulars, and one of the club’s owners—who had heard my tracks online—came up to me during my set. He asked if I could produce a custom track for an event they were planning for a larger audience the following month. It was a simple request, but to me, it felt like the world had shifted in that instant.

At first, I didn’t believe it. I thought it was just talk, that he was being nice, or maybe he was trying to flatter me. But when he handed me a small deposit and said, “This is just to get you started. We’ll pay you the rest when it’s ready,” my heart nearly stopped. That was the first time I had ever been paid for my music. I’d always dreamed of this moment, but to actually feel it? It was surreal.

I went home that night and stayed up for hours in the studio, working on that track. I wanted it to be perfect, not just because it was my first paid project, but because it was a symbol of everything I had worked for. The process was a whirlwind—crafting the beat, tweaking the bass, layering the synths. It was exhausting, but also exhilarating. The final product felt like a piece of my soul, something I’d poured everything into. And when I sent it over to the client, I felt a mix of nervousness and pride, hoping it would resonate with the people who would eventually hear it.

The night of the event arrived. I was at the venue, nervous but hopeful, pacing backstage. When the track dropped during the event, the crowd went wild. I couldn’t believe it. People were dancing to something I had created. In that moment, I realized that my music could actually connect with others, and that was worth more than any amount of money.

That night, after the event, I was paid the rest of the fee—money that, at the time, felt like a dream come true. But more than the money, it was the realization that I had just crossed a new threshold in my career. It wasn’t just about the revenue; it was the validation of my work, the proof that people were ready to listen. And it was the first step toward believing in myself as a professional DJ and producer.

I’ll never forget how it felt to look at that first paycheck—it was the beginning of my journey, a new chapter full of potential. And now, years later, I still get that same rush every time I see my music resonate with someone.

Felipe, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

The first time I earned money from my music as a DJ and producer in Costa Rica was a moment I’ll never forget, a blend of excitement, disbelief, and a rush of energy. It was around the time I had just started experimenting with my own beats and mixes. I had always been passionate about electronic music, but until that moment, I was doing it more for the love of the craft, not yet imagining the possibility of making a living from it.

One night, I was playing a small set at a local club in San José, a venue that had just opened and was starting to bring in crowds of people looking for something new. I had shared my mixes with some of the regulars, and one of the club’s owners—who had heard my tracks online—came up to me during my set. He asked if I could produce a custom track for an event they were planning for a larger audience the following month. It was a simple request, but to me, it felt like the world had shifted in that instant.

At first, I didn’t believe it. I thought it was just talk, that he was being nice, or maybe he was trying to flatter me. But when he handed me a small deposit and said, “This is just to get you started. We’ll pay you the rest when it’s ready,” my heart nearly stopped. That was the first time I had ever been paid for my music. I’d always dreamed of this moment, but to actually feel it? It was surreal.

I went home that night and stayed up for hours in the studio, working on that track. I wanted it to be perfect, not just because it was my first paid project, but because it was a symbol of everything I had worked for. The process was a whirlwind—crafting the beat, tweaking the bass, layering the synths. It was exhausting, but also exhilarating. The final product felt like a piece of my soul, something I’d poured everything into. And when I sent it over to the client, I felt a mix of nervousness and pride, hoping it would resonate with the people who would eventually hear it.

The night of the event arrived. I was at the venue, nervous but hopeful, pacing backstage. When the track dropped during the event, the crowd went wild. I couldn’t believe it. People were dancing to something I had created. In that moment, I realized that my music could actually connect with others, and that was worth more than any amount of money.

That night, after the event, I was paid the rest of the fee—money that, at the time, felt like a dream come true. But more than the money, it was the realization that I had just crossed a new threshold in my career. It wasn’t just about the revenue; it was the validation of my work, the proof that people were ready to listen. And it was the first step toward believing in myself as a professional DJ and producer.

I’ll never forget how it felt to look at that first paycheck—it was the beginning of my journey, a new chapter full of potential. And now, years later, I still get that same rush every time I see my music resonate with someone.

You said:
For folks who may not have read about you before, can you please tell our readers about yourself, how you got into your industry / business / discipline / craft etc, what type of products/services/creative works you provide, what problems you solve for your clients and/or what you think sets you apart from others. What are you most proud of and what are the main things you want potential clients/followers/fans to know about you/your brand/your work/ etc.
Please provide as much detail as you feel relevant as this is one of the core questions where the reader will get to know about you and your brand/organization/etc
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
I’m a DJ and music producer based in Costa Rica, and my journey into the world of music was a natural evolution of my love for rhythm and sound. Growing up in a country with such rich musical traditions, I was exposed to a mix of genres early on, from Latin sounds to electronic music. As a teenager, I started experimenting with beats on my computer, mixing and creating tracks just for fun. It didn’t take long before I realized that this was not just a hobby—it was my passion, and I wanted to turn it into something bigger.

At first, I worked as a DJ at small local parties and bars, just trying to learn the ropes and get a feel for the crowd. It wasn’t glamorous, but every gig taught me something new. Over time, I started building my own sound and combining influences from house, techno, reggaeton, and Latin music, giving my sets a unique fusion that resonated with the audience. As I honed my craft, I began producing original tracks, which eventually led to collaborations with other local artists and international DJs.

I specialize in creating high-energy sets and tracks that blend genres, infusing Latin rhythms into electronic beats. The work I do falls into two main categories: live DJ performances and producing custom music for clients, ranging from club events to special projects like commercials or media productions. Whether it’s curating the perfect set for a dancefloor or crafting a custom song to enhance an advertisement, I focus on creating immersive, memorable experiences that captivate audiences.

One thing that sets me apart is my deep understanding of both the technical and emotional aspects of music. As a DJ, I don’t just focus on the beats; I pay attention to how people feel throughout the night, reading the energy in the room and adjusting my set accordingly. As a producer, I spend countless hours perfecting each track, making sure it’s not just sonically pleasing but that it tells a story. I infuse my Latin heritage into every project, adding a layer of authenticity and passion that I believe truly connects with my listeners.

The biggest problem I solve for my clients is creating experiences that transport people. Whether it’s turning a nightclub into an unforgettable experience or helping a brand communicate its message through music, my goal is to provide a sonic backdrop that enhances the moment. Music has the power to shift moods and bring people together, and I use that power to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

What I’m most proud of is seeing how my music has resonated with people beyond the borders of Costa Rica. The feedback I’ve received from international fans, collaborators, and clients has been incredibly rewarding. It’s amazing to see my work reach new places and impact people from all over the world. And the fact that I’ve been able to build a career doing what I love, in a country where the music industry isn’t as established as in other places, makes it even more special.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want you to know that my work is about authenticity, passion, and connection. Every track I create and every performance I give is an expression of who I am. I’m committed to providing high-quality music that not only sounds great but makes people feel something real. My brand isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about creating experiences that people will remember.

If you’re looking for a DJ or producer who understands the power of music and is dedicated to creating something unique for you, then I’d love to collaborate. Whether you’re planning an event, working on a project, or just looking for a fresh sound, I’m here to bring your vision to life through the music I make.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Looking back on my creative journey as a DJ and music producer, there are definitely a few resources I wish I had known about earlier. In the beginning, I was self-taught and often felt like I was stumbling in the dark, learning through trial and error. While that process helped shape me, there are certain tools and communities that could have accelerated my growth and made the road a lot less daunting.

1.Online Production Courses and Tutorials: Early on, I relied mostly on YouTube tutorials, but there were a lot of gaps in my learning.

2.Music Collaboration Networks: There are a number of online communities and platforms where producers can collaborate, share feedback, and connect with other musicians.

3.Networking in the Digital Age: I wish I’d known how important it is to network early in my career. It wasn’t until I was a bit more established that I learned how platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn could be powerful tools for connecting with clients, other musicians, and even brands. I now understand the power of a strong online presence and how sharing behind-the-scenes content or engaging with fans can expand your reach and create more opportunities.

4.Business and Contract Resources: As an independent artist, the business side of things can be tricky. I didn’t know much about the importance of contracts, royalty rights, or how to properly negotiate fees with clients.

5.Sound Libraries and Plugins: I spent a lot of time trying to recreate sounds from scratch, learning through trial and error. I wish I’d discovered sound libraries and virtual instruments sooner.

6.Music Marketing & Branding: Another area I didn’t focus on early enough was music marketing and branding. I spent so much time making music that I didn’t realize how important it was to build a cohesive brand.

7.Mindset and Mental Health Resources: The creative journey can be emotionally taxing, and it’s easy to get caught up in self-doubt or burnout. Finding a community of like-minded individuals to share struggles and success stories with is crucial in any creative industry, and learning to take care of your mental health would have been beneficial from the start.

In short, there are so many resources out there today that can help aspiring DJs and producer’s shortcut their learning curves, build their brands, and enhance their creativity. If I had known about these tools earlier, I think my path might have been smoother, but at the same time, the journey has taught me invaluable lessons. The important thing is to keep learning, experimenting, and connecting with others, and with the right resources, there are endless possibilities for growth.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to connect with others on an emotional and personal level through my music. There’s something incredibly powerful about creating a track, a beat, or a set that resonates with people and moves them. Whether it’s making someone dance, helping them feel something deeply, or simply giving them a moment of escape, knowing that my work can make an impact on others is what drives me.

As a DJ and producer, I’m constantly amazed by how music transcends language, culture, and even time. When I’m performing, there’s this shared energy between me and the crowd—a moment where everything clicks, where the music creates an experience we all share. That feeling, when everyone in the room is in sync with the beat, when you see people fully immersed in the moment, is indescribable. It’s this beautiful form of communication that goes beyond words.

Another rewarding part is the creative process itself—turning an idea into something tangible. There’s something incredibly satisfying about starting with nothing but a few sounds or a concept and, through experimentation and exploration, crafting a track that feels like it’s alive. Every sound, every transition, every melody comes together in its own way. Seeing your idea evolve and come to life is a feeling that never gets old.

But above all, what truly makes this journey rewarding is the feedback I get from fans and clients. When someone tells me that a track I made helped them through a tough time, or that it was the highlight of their night, that’s the real reward. It’s about the connection—the way my work becomes part of someone else’s life story. That’s what makes everything worth it. It reminds me that the effort, the long nights in the studio, and the hustle to keep improving are all for something much bigger than just the music itself—it’s about creating moments and memories for others.

To me, that’s the essence of being an artist: making something that not only reflects who you are but also has the power to touch others in a meaningful way.

Contact Info:

• Website: @anima.everything
• Instagram: @felipemoyamusic
• Linkedin: @felipemoyamusic
• Twitter: @felipemoyamusic
• Youtube: @felipemoyamusic
• Soundcloud: @felipemoyamusic

Image Credits

own photos