February 1, 2024
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We had a chat with @ahmedmoenes , and we’ll leave you to everything you might want to know about the young veteran who saves lives during the day, and twists knobs during the night. He often describes himself as a chef, attributing his complexity to this constant urge of uniting different genres into a coherent signature dish conveyed in his interesting live sounds and transitions.
With his roots being heavily influenced by the emergence of the early 2000’s house and disco wave.
Kicking off his musical career early on gave him the chance to be the youngest staple act in Cairo’s ever evolving electronic music scene. Opening for renowned acts like Alan Dixon, Patrice Bäumel, Eagles & Butterflies and many more gave him the opportunity to speak to a wide range of music enthusiasts through his diverse sets.
You will often catch Moenes performing live at the Jazz Club, with his signature outdoors Terrace party!
We talked everything from how the music scene has changed over the decade, how he manages to find a sense of balance and presence in his day-to-day life, to his favorite local artists.
Moenes, you debuted back in 2013.
How do you think the scene has changed over the years?
I think the scene has witnessed a huge shift in the way it caters to different tastes and audiences;
the concept of going out to party has changed and events have become more engaging, intriguing and inclusive.
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What feelings do you aspire to evoke with your music?
A general sense of happiness, letting go of life’s negativity.
It’s what people like to call “feel-good music”
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Define creativity.
For me being creative doesn’t necessarily mean being different than everyone else. It’s simply the urge to develop an identity and having enough passion to show it.
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What was the catalyst to your kick-starting a career in music?
It’s the pressing urge to share good music with everyone around me. The moment I hear something that I like,
my first instinct is usually to share it with someone around me, and that’s exactly what deejaying is all about.
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What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
I picture music as a tangible form of art that speaks to and moves everyone effortlessly.
Being in control of the sound in a space and hence the way the crowd moves or reacts to it is the most rewarding feeling when it works the way you want it to.
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Where do you find success? (The Crowd’s Reactions to your Music, Numbers…etc.)
I don’t have a metric for success, I perform live because I’m the happiest version of myself behind the decks, it might sound selfish, but being able to transfer my emotions, energy and happiness to others through my music is undeniably my best outlet.
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Being the center of attention at events can often be intimidating.
Is it something you struggle/ struggled with?
My intention is always to just have fun, regardless of where I’m playing.
If I can make sure that the crowd can relate to the same feeling, it doesn’t feel intimidating, it feels rewarding.
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How do you stay grounded, while you manage your energy levels, as your career demands exposure, novelty and less routine?
I set intentions and small milestones for myself, again, I’m not in it for the fame, the money or the touring.
I constantly remind myself to always be grateful for what I have achieved so far, and look forward to more.
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How do you manage to juggle different roles:
Balance is a relative thing. My priorities are never constant.
But I constantly put effort into enjoying each aspect of my life in moderation and make time for everything whenever I can.
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Is there an artist you look up to?
Nils Frahm
Who is it you would love to perform B2B with?
Palms Trax
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One local artist I think makes great music is Misty
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What is one thing you wish your audience knew about you for certain?
I always improvise my sets.
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Career wise, how was 2023 to you?
2023 was a huge milestone for me, I am so grateful to have played for some of the biggest festivals and promoters in the region.
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You are renowned for your terrace parties at Cairo Jazz Club, tell us all about Moenes X CJC over the years.
CJC has been a huge part of my recent deejaying Career in Egypt.
I started playing there in 2019 and ever since, they have constantly supported me and worked with me to come up with new ideas and event concepts.
The biggest of which is Disco-Tech, our terrace to indoors party which has been growing exponentially.
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What has been your highlight gig? Tell us more about it.
Shorelines Festival by Nacelle in Almaza Bay.
One of the best crowds and stages I’ve played.
Everyone had the clear intention of just having fun and dancing.