When the media calls you the “Latina Lady Gaga,” the world is bound to notice, but Argentina’s power-pop princesa has something unique to offer Latin nightlife. Denise Murz has always been determined to create music on her own terms and that’s exactly what she’s been doing. While other aspiring musicians crave for the attention of record label executives just for a chance to get signed, the electro diva prefers channeling her punk spirit and distributing her tunes for free. Perhaps that explains why DJs can’t get enough of the starlet’s dance anthems. Even Amylulita of NYC’s DJ duo Nacotheque revealed on her blog that Murz’s tracks “are fun, sexy, and glitter with Studio 54-style beats.” And if that's not enough, Murz was personally chosen to perform at Buenos Aires’ Congressional Hall last year in celebration of the country’s legalization of gay marriage-an honor few artists were granted. While her debut album, Pretenciosa, is currently available for gratis, Murz is currently prepping for a major New York City debut this year. Before she hits the road, we spoke with Murz about her upcoming album, being compared to Lady Gaga, and how Latinos can make an impact this very second with one important tool.
nocheLatina: Tell us more about your album, Pretenciosa.
Denise Murz: Pretenciosa was made by chance. I just wanted to make a demo with four songs. When I finished it, I felt deeply in love with my new sound. I was also shocked that no one edited my stuff. Argentina was going through a big economic crisis and the music business was completely dead. No one would invest any money on a new musician. I decided to become a punk artist and adopt the DIY mentality. I recorded seven additional songs and released Pretenciosa for free online. I´m glad I did it that way.
nocheLatina: How did releasing an album without any major label backing changed the way you view the music industry?
Denise Murz: I had to learn about the music business in every aspect. It took a lot of time and energy. Still does. I also took jobs in major labels. Most of the producers I worked for never knew of my real intentions. I just wanted to suck all of their experiences and use it for my own project.
nocheLatina: Why should artists give away their music for free?
Denise Murz: Because there's no point in resisting against the future. Music is completely free. Logic says artists shouldn't put obstacles between themselves and the audience. And surprise, it could be a really good business to do it this way! Artists and labels save a lot of money from distribution. Plus, they get a chance to reach more people worldwide.
nocheLatina: What has your collaboration with La Prohibida taught you about being a Latin pop artist?
Denise Murz: La Prohibida has the most amazing sense of what's it like being an indie artist on a global level. She´s really punk! She does it all by herself. She tours the underground scene with only one suitcase, which contains her whole show. She does magic. She's a person that never asked anyone permission to be the artist she wanted to be. That’s so inspiring!
nocheLatina: What is your relationship like with the gay community?
Denise Murz: For some reason the gay community was the first to celebrate Pretenciosa. It's so flattering...I´ve been visiting gay clubs since I was 15 and always had this fascination with the scene. I started going to gay clubs with a friend because the music was so much better there! I could dance wildly for hours and no one would care. I think that a lot of my influences comes from that, so it all makes sense.
nocheLatina: What your thoughts on the recent legalization of gay marriage in Argentina?
Denise Murz: I played with my band at the Congressional Hall in Buenos Aires the day Argentina was debating gay marriage to show support. It was one of the happiest days of my life and I felt so proud of my country. I do believe it's the beginning of a new era for sexual diversity and, as it happened with women’s rights, there will come a day when we just won't understand how gay people couldn’t marry in the past. That day, I believe, will come very soon.
nocheLatina: Talk about your upcoming album, Gran Conquista. What can audiences expect from your sophomore release?
Denise Murz: Power! Expect fun and strong, girly songs. It has aggressive beats, but it's still very sentimental. It has a luxurious feel to it, but also a lot of love. And of course, expect it to be online in April for free!
nocheLatina: How, in your opinion, are Latinos changing the way listeners hear electronic music?
Denise Murz: Latin artists are making their own interpretations of electronic music and they are adding alma to it. Listeners are starting to understand that. We´re putting drama, passion, and romance on the dance floor. It´s not about an endless beat pattern anymore.
nocheLatina: What are your thoughts on the internet and its impact on Latin artists?
Denise Murz: The internet is the most amazing playground an artist can have. It's like a big stage. It's the same if you are Latin. You are invited to join the stage and show what you're made of. It´s like Pandora’s box, you never know what to expect. Latin artists are using it in an amazing way.
