We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nino Mayores a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Nino thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful show I’ve done was for my close friend—like a brother to me—Ryan Manalili. On August 3rd, 2024, he had his EP release show, which he had been preparing for months. It meant a lot for several reasons: I had only just started DJing and wasn’t very consistent yet, but he still asked me to DJ the whole event. The lineup was made up of our closest friends, and we got to perform for our friends and family. It was a special night all around

Nino , 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?

My name is Nino, aka DJ Nino. I’m just a guy from LA who didn’t have the easiest upbringing—but that was normal where I’m from. I moved around a lot and had many passions growing up, but the one thing that stayed constant was my love for music. I was always listening, discovering new artists, and diving into different sounds.

I spent some time in the dance scene too, and many of the people I met there are now some of my closest friends. Whether I was listening or dancing, music was always part of me—so it was only natural that I’d eventually try DJing.

I bought my first controller in November 2023. At first, I doubted myself—worried about failing and stuck in my head. But I reminded myself why I started: the love for music and the joy of expressing myself through sound. I also had a solid support system—people who believed in me and helped me grow.

Whether you know me or you’re just getting familiar, I love creating content and sharing the sounds that inspire me. My goal is to take people on a journey through music—whether it’s vibing out or just dancing and having a good time. You can find my work on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and I occasionally show up at gigs too. I’m all about community and the love for music, so if you feel the same, I’m always down to be part of it.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I’m still new to this and always see myself as a student. I’m lucky to have close friends who are also creatives—their energy and drive keep me inspired and motivated. Big shoutout to them; I wouldn’t be where I am without their support. As long as I’m growing and enjoying DJing, that’s what really matters. If opportunities come, I’ll be ready.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Go to their shows, share their work—sharing is free!
If you can, buy their music or art.
There are so many talented people out there who deserve more recognition

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/nino.mayores
• Youtube: https://YouTube.com/nino.mayores
• Soundcloud: https://SoundCloud.com/nino.mayores
• Other: Tik tok: @nino.mayores

Image Credits

Photo credit: @insageproduction, @juanangeles_