Known for his electrifying performances, fast-paced mixing style and unmistakable connection with the crowd, Freddy Moreira has built a reputation as one of the most entertaining and energetic artists in the Dutch electronic music scene.
With a career that has taken him across Europe, South America and the Caribbean, Freddy has become recognised for his ability to blend genres, create unforgettable moments and turn every performance into a full-scale experience. His sets are defined by infectious energy, unexpected musical twists and a level of crowd interaction that has made him a favourite among fans worldwide.
This Thursday, Freddy brings that trademark energy to DIO in Crete as part of DIONYSIA, the venue’s immersive weekly celebration inspired by freedom, connection and the spirit of Dionysus. Set against the backdrop of the Cretan coastline, the event combines sunset, music and an atmosphere designed for guests to fully embrace the moment.
Ahead of his appearance, UFO Network caught up with Freddy to talk about his debut at DIO, the importance of energy behind the decks, performing by the sea, and what guests can expect when he takes over the booth this Thursday.
What first attracted you to DIO, and what excites you most about making your debut at the venue this Thursday?
I’ve been working with the team behind DIO for years, so it didn’t take much to convince me to take on a residency there this year.
I’m really looking forward to absolutely tearing this new hotspot apart! Hahaha!
It’s always exciting to be part of something new, especially when you know the people behind the project and understand the passion that has gone into creating it. I can’t wait to experience the atmosphere, meet the crowd and bring my own energy to the DIO stage.
Your sets are known for their explosive energy, fast-paced mixing and crowd interaction. Does playing in a beachfront setting at sunset influence the way you approach a performance?
I’ll be bringing some extra towels! Hahaha! 😂
But seriously, playing by the beach always adds something special. DIO has one of the best beach front and sunset venues in Crete, making it a spectacular venue for any musician to perform
DIO’s Thursday concept, DIONYSIA, is inspired by freedom, celebration and letting go. It feels like a concept that naturally fits your style behind the decks. How important is creating that shared sense of energy between you and the crowd?
For me, energy is the most important part of a show, alongside track selection.
Without energy, confidence, passion and a real connection with the crowd, it’s just not going to work. A great performance is not only about the music. It’s about the relationship between the artist and the people in front of you.
When everyone is connected and sharing the same feeling, that’s when the magic happens.
You’ve performed across Europe, South America and the Caribbean. What is it about playing by the sea that makes beach clubs such a special environment for both DJs and audiences?
Beachfront shows by the sea are always something special because of the setting, the location and the magical atmosphere that comes with the sunset.
There’s always an extra spark of magic that’s hard to explain. The combination of music, nature, people and that moment when the sun goes down creates an experience that you simply cannot recreate anywhere else.
Your sound is constantly evolving, blending different genres and influences into one energetic performance. How do you decide where to take a crowd over the course of a set?
At its core, every show is built around the Freddy Moreira repertoire, the key tracks that people expect to hear from me.
What makes each performance unique is the crowd and their energy. You can feel from their reaction which musical direction you can, and want to, take together.
Every audience is different, and I always want the set to feel like a shared journey rather than something that is simply planned in advance.
For someone who has never experienced a Freddy Moreira show before, what do you hope they remember when they leave the dancefloor?
For the ladies… a sore back from shaking their hips! Hahaha!
But most importantly, I want people to leave with a smile on their face, feeling like they were part of something special. The best compliment is when people walk away feeling the energy of the night long after the music stops.
Finally, what can everyone heading to DIONYSIA at DIO this Thursday expect from your debut performance, and is there anything special you’ve got planned for the night?
Expect a hot, sweaty, feel-good atmosphere… with a very special guest: Freddy Panda! 🐼
Freddy Moreira performs at DIONYSIA at DIO this Thursday. For more information, events and reservations, visit DIO Life.
