The electronic music scene is in good hands with DJ and producer Steller, who just dropped her highly anticipated EP, “FUNKSTEP!”, under the renowned Bassrush label. With her signature fusion of heavy bass and funky instrumentals, this latest project from Steller promises to push boundaries and offer listeners a unique blend of dubstep intensity and groove-driven funk elements.
Angelica Bafitis A.K.A. Steller hails from South Florida, and her discography showcases a unique style, including her hit in collaboration with Zingara, “Find It In Your Mind,” which surpassed 1 million streams on Spotify and garnered support from artists such as CloZee and LSDream.
Steller’s electrifying live shows have made her a festival favorite, with appearances at major events like Lost Lands, Lollapalooza, Forbidden Kingdom, and Electric Daisy Carnival.
In this interview, she spoke to us about the album and the challenges that come with being a woman in a space like electronic music, which has only given her the strength to continue to blaze trails.
Please tell us a little about your musical journey and how you found your way into this industry.
I’ve always known from a young age that I wanted to do something involving music, but I just didn’t know what it would look like. I started with playing guitar and singing, and then from there, I went on to study audio engineering in college, which really solidified kind of where I’m at now and sort of catapulted me into my bass music journey. After college, I knew I wanted to be a producer/DJ but wasn’t sure how to get involved in the industry, so I just put myself out there and started interning at festivals, that’s how I met my manager, and the rest is history!
Looking back from those early days to today, what would you say have been the key moments or milestones that have shaped your career?
I would say playing major shows like Red Rocks and Lollapalooza have been key moments. Those shows were something I could have only ever dreamed of a few years back, so getting to live them in reality is like, “Wow, is this real life?” Moment. Also, another notable milestone was doing a tour with my friend Zingara. I feel like I was really able to come out of my shell and find my flow on that tour, so I am definitely grateful to her for that.
Let’s talk about “FUNKSTEP!” which is already generating a lot of buzz! What sparked your inspiration for this project, and what can listeners expect from it?
I’ve always been drawn to funk, classic rock, and more groovy elements in music. I’ve also heard the term “Funkstep” thrown around, and people have described my sound with that, so I decided why not make an EP surrounding that theme? I already incorporate funky elements/organic sounds into my music, so it definitely felt natural to just run with it. Listeners can expect something vibey, but also bass-heavy. That’s what a lot of my sound is. It’ll make you feel things and want to dance in the first half and head-bang in the second.
If you could conceptualize this EP, what would you say?
I would say that it’s a funky and fun EP that will make you want to groove and also get down with some heavy bass.
Were there any particular challenges or obstacles you faced when creating this EP?
Honestly no! I was in such a good flow state with this one. I feel like the tracks really complement each other, and everything came together really nicely.
As a DJ and producer, have you encountered resistance or challenges within the industry? And how do you think the scene is evolving for women in bass music?
Oh yes, especially being a woman in this space. I feel like we are often overlooked, or not taken seriously by people and even other artists. I’ve definitely had to push past my comfort zone and put myself out there more than probably the average male artist. I think the scene is slowly becoming more inclusive, and we’re gaining the respect we deserve. I think recently, women in the industry have been making more noise, so now it’s becoming hard for people to overlook us.
Who do you admire within this musical spectrum, and who would you like to share the stage with?
There are a lot of artists I look up to, some of those being Griz and Pretty Lights. It would be an honor to share a stage with them one day, they’re definitely some of my biggest inspirations.
If we look at your playlist right now, what are we going to get?
Definitely a random mix of genres, haha. My personal listening playlist has everything from Rufus Du Sol to Keinemusik and Zeds Dead.
Are there any upcoming shows to present the album and play it live?
Yes! I have a full fall of touring, so I will definitely be playing out the new EP at those stops.
What advice would you give to all the girls reading this interview who still feel hesitant to pursue what they truly want?
Don’t let the fear of ‘what if’ or ‘what will people think’ hold you back! You have to do what you feel most aligned with, and don’t let anyone get in the way of pursuing your passions! Surround yourself with uplifting and supportive people. I know how scary it can feel, but taking the leap is so, so rewarding.
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