Carlita in Focus: A Spotlight on Dance Music’s Genre-Bending ForcE
Unpredictable. Unforgettable. Carlita.
Born in Istanbul and raised on classical music, Carlita is a DJ, producer, and multi-instrumentalist redefining the sound of modern dance floors. From Latin percussion to Turkish psychedelia, her sets are emotional journeys that refuse to fit in a box. Whether she’s opening for Dua Lipa or spinning at underground raves, Carlita blends heart, heritage, and high energy into every beat. Dive into her world—genre rules don’t apply.
Unpacking the Magic of Carlita: A Deep Dive into Dance Music's Genre-Bending Innovator
In the dynamic world of electronic music, few artists captivate quite like Carlita (born Carla Frayman). Hailing from Istanbul, Turkey, this multi-talented force has rapidly ascended to the forefront of the global scene, not just as a DJ, but also as a formidable producer and multi-instrumentalist.
Carlita's journey into sound began remarkably early. She started playing the piano at just three years old, followed by the cello by eight, pursuing rigorous classical training that laid a foundational understanding of music theory and composition. Her path eventually led her to Boston for college, where the city's vibrant club scene, particularly a place called Bijou, became her gateway into the world of electronic music and raving.
Her Sound & Creative Philosophy:
A Journey, Not a Box
One of the most compelling aspects of Carlita's artistry is her steadfast refusal to be confined by genre. As she's stated in past interviews, she thrives on surprising her audience, taking them on unexpected sonic adventures.
Carlita's sound is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, genre-bending, and connection at its deepest level. She effortlessly weaves together a rich tapestry of influences, pulling from everything from the psychedelic rock of her Turkish heritage and the raw energy of 90s rock, to the intricate rhythms of Latin percussion and the sweeping textures of her classical training.
It's clear she's not just mixing tracks; she's meticulously crafting immersive sonic journeys that resonate on an emotional plane. This expansive philosophy shines brightly in her recent debut album, "Sentimental," where she fully showcases her incredible depth and wide variety of sound. As our team member Nel aptly notes, Carlita's approach means "she doesn't box herself into being any one style but brings together everything from Turkish psychedelia and 90s rock to Latin percussion and classical influences."
Sam from our team beautifully articulates why this approach is so captivating: "Carlita blends her classical background and fuses all different sounds she has come across in her journey to get who she is allows her to take the dance floor through a rollercoaster of sounds and rhythms. In her debut album Sentimental, the track ‘Trouble Symphony’ presents a richly textured, cinematic, and deeply melancholic yet subtly uplifting atmosphere with its sweeping orchestral-like pads and chords." This track, co-produced with DJ Tennis, is a testament to her unique ability to blend profound emotion with club-ready production.
Essential Carlita: Set Picks
While Carlita's magic is in her unpredictability, some sets stand out:
Favorite Carlita Set (EQSelector Choice): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocIwIiFrpiM&list=RDocIwIiFrpiM&start_radio=1
Off The Record: Fun Facts & Beyond the Decks
Beyond her musical prowess, Carlita's distinct persona and fascinating tidbits make her even more endearing:
The Hustle is Real: Talk about dedication! When she was younger and living in Boston, Carlita famously Airbnb'd her rental home to save up enough money to buy her very first CDJs. That's true passion!
Armored in Style: Her signature bucket hats are more than just a fashion statement; she's shared that they serve as a kind of armor, making her feel safe and secure while performing.
Fashion Forward: Carlita is deeply involved in the fashion scene and is currently working on launching her own clothing line, promising to bring her distinctive aesthetic to textiles.
Pop Star Endorsement: She commanded massive stages in Europe, opening for none other than Dua Lipa for four shows as the coveted opening act, showcasing her broad appeal.
Carlita is more than just a DJ; she's an artist constantly pushing boundaries, crafting experiences that are as intellectually stimulating as they are emotionally resonant. Her dedication to her craft, her fearless genre-bending, and her unique background make her one of the most exciting forces in dance music today.