It always goes without saying that when it comes to living legends in the house music world, David Morales occupies a coveted position alongside other luminaries such as Chez Damier, Louie Vega, Trent, Larry Heard and more. Though he is of course best known for his Ibiza classic, ‘Needin U’, Morales has been a pivotal figure in house for over three decades now, and with a new album on the way, it’s clear he’s keen to continue evolving too.

What’s more, after a lengthy time at home and away from gigs, he’s finally back on the road — and will be playing Boogaloo Weekender shortly in Camber Sands, UK, alongside many, many other legends of the scene. All things considered, it’s great that things are back, eh? With all this – and plenty more – to chat about, we caught up with David to get the lowdown recently on what he’s been up to. Here’s what he had to say….

WWD: Hello David Morales, How was the pandemic year for you?

Aside from not touring and not making any income it was ok really. It gave me time to focus on making music that I normally don’t have ample time to spend enough time on. It also gave me a moment to even focus on creating something new as in streaming live (SUNDAY MASS every sunday). That has given me a platform to connect with my audience on a whole other level.

WWD: What did you learn about yourself or the scene or the world?

I’ve learned how foolish a lot of people can be based on misinformation.

WWD: You play Boogaloo in the uk soon – what should people expect from you these days?

Don’t expect anything… then you won’t be disappointed! But yes, I’m really looking forward to that one… a special, like minded crowd and a great line-up. It should make for a fantastic experience.

WWD: How do you feel about UK gigs after all your many years? What comes to mind when you think of UK crowds?

I love playing in the UK. It’s one of my favourite countries in the world. I’ve been playing in the UK since 1989. The crowd is always, always up for it.

WWD: Why did you want to do a new LP, what inspired or influenced it?

Being on lockdown gave me a lot of time to focus on making music. I felt that it was time to release a new album. I just delayed the release because of the pandemic. I’m always working on new music. I have at least two albums worth of music at the moment. Watch this space!

WWD: Why wait so long since the last? Had you tried and given up or never tried to do one in the interim?

Like I said, I just didn’t focus on making a new album but I was releasing singles on my label. When the time feels right to release an album, then I go for it!

WWD: Was there a plan for it from the start, did you know how you wanted it to sound? What was the aim generally with it?

My music is a reflection of where I’m at musically. I never plan on how I want it to sound because I’m into many different sounds and genres.

WWD: Any key gear used in the making of it – does that matter to you, the ‘how’?

I live on Ableton these days so that really is my core piece of software.

WWD: What else are you working on, what’s next?

More music and thinking about doing either a book or a documentary. As always, I’m keeping busy…!

David Morales plays Boogaloo Weekender (Camber Sands, UK, 15th October). Keep up with David on Facebook and Instagram.