The bass drops, and just as the crowd locks into a groove, DJ Edge makes a daring move, flipping from smooth house beats to a burst of drum and bass. For a second, there’s a collective gasp - a pause - then a wave of energy floods the room, and the crowd surges back to life cheering. This moment captures the magic of Dario Fuentes, known to the DFW scene as DJ Edge, a local legend who thrives on unpredictability. He seamlessly adapts to the crowd’s pulse and can overcome challenges to keep the energy alive.
We talked with DJ Edge, diving into the turning points and community connections fueling his journey. From his early days mixing Latin and hip-hop to his rise on the DFW EDM scene, DJ Edge opens up in our interview about the evolution of his style and passion for crafting unforgettable experiences that keep fans on their toes.
EDM Texas: You started mixing Latin and hip-hop tracks in 2009. Can you tell us what originally drew you into DJing?
DJ Edge: My brother was a turntablist in the early 2000s. I vividly remember asking him “Hey, can you try and teach me how this works? The sounds from the speakers sound really cool.” I was around 8-9 years old when I learned the basics of beat matching correctly and mixed my first two songs. It mentally clicked as soon as I did it alone, and I said, “Is there more music I can do this with?”
EDM Texas: What about electronic dance music pulled you in and inspired you to shift from Latin clubs to larger EDM venues and how did this change influence your approach and style as a DJ?
DJ Edge: The melodic sound and structure of the song “Blue” by Eiffel 65. The way the song pulls you in, the beat of the music, the laser sounds, etc. I remember listening to it for the first time, and just out of nowhere, I started dancing. I immediately captured that moment mentally and wondered, “If this song can make me feel this way, what else is out there?” I started looking for songs that had that similar effect; tracks that can make you feel good.
EDM Texas: Your sets are known for blending multiple genres into seamless, immersive experiences! Can you walk us through your approach to crafting these sets and how you balance such a wide range of styles while keeping the flow?
DJ Edge: I approach it headfirst by trial and error. During my first legitimate gigs years ago, I accepted every song request. I took literal notes on pen and paper and wrote down what worked for me and the crowd. It was a lot of on-the-spot research. I created my formula of being a few steps ahead on what type of show books me, and the crowd there and finding the right tracks to play at the time slot that I will perform.
EDM Texas: You’ve mentioned that the motto “improvise, adapt, and overcome,” inspired by Bear Grylls, speaks to your approach as a DJ. How does this philosophy play out in your live performances, especially when reading the crowd or switching genres?
DJ Edge: The endless variables that can and will happen at shows. You can plan what tracks you want to play mentally, and if they don’t work, then what? I’ve performed at house music, dubstep, trance, and techno shows and the crowd told me, “Hey man, can you play a different genre?” I’ve played house music at dubstep shows and drum and bass at house music shows. That’s how I created my signature as a DJ - being able to improvise on the spot to make the CROWD happy. Once you can make the crowd happy, they will remember you.
EDM Texas: Due to this impressive skill, you've built a diverse repertoire that performs everywhere from intimate spots like the Green Elephant to significant venues like Southside Ballroom and the Granada Theater! Can you share how you adapt your sets to different crowd sizes and vibes?
DJ Edge: Everyone has a different music taste; every show has a different crowd. Depending on the type of show, you have a blueprint of what you’re getting yourself into. My most memorable memory was playing at the video bar at the Lizard Lounge. I opened at 9 pm with house music and ended the night playing reggaeton music. How did that happen? It was going with the flow. And it worked!
EDM Texas: You’ve collaborated with some significant promo companies in DFW, like DFW Rave Fam, Pulsation Nation, HAM Promos, and Studio 254. How have these partnerships helped you expand your audience and bring new energy to the Texas EDM community?
DJ Edge: Everything starts with planting seeds, creating, building, and maintaining genuine relationships and friendships. They have all helped me by allowing and trusting me with being able to show them my passion for being a DJ. I’m able to give them my absolute best every time I perform. They’ve helped me by allowing me to get better at every single show and creating unforgettable memories. Every show I play enables me to have a new set of ears and feel and hear something new. I have the chance to make someone’s day better.
EDM Texas: Beyond performing, what does being part of the local scene mean to you and how do you see your role in building and supporting the DFW EDM community?
DJ Edge: Being part of the local scene is fantastic. It lets me spectate the new up-and-coming talent that's also hungry for the same passion that I have. And if I’m lucky, I can create new relationships with the latest DJs and guide them to the right spots! Everyone deserves to eat.
EDM Texas: Where can fans catch you performing next?
DJ Edge: Follow me on Instagram! I’ll be posting new show announcements soon. Please come to one of my shows and I’ll give you some stickers! See you soon! ❤️🙏🏼
DJ Edge’s dynamic versatility has left an unmistakable impact on the DFW EDM scene. Whether opening with smooth beats or shaking the room with heavy bass, his unique blend of Latin, hip-hop, and EDM reflects a “jack of all trades” approach while creating unforgettable memories on the dance floor. Take the chance to experience DJ Edge live - stay tuned for his following performance announcements on Instagram and come be a part of the magic!
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