Immersed in the hard beats and hypnotic rhythms of techno, Ornella, a visionary artist, honed her craft over time and since early age. Her unique ability to create immersive auditory experiences and her innovative approach quickly started to set her apart in Portugal’s vibrant music scene. The breakthrough came through performances at top clubs across the country, and most recently in various important features around the world, like Brunch Electronik, Fabrik Madrid, Verknipt and Blackworks New York. All these small steps in her still short but prolific career helped her to stablish as a key figure in the portuguese scene and solidify her reputation as a pivotal presence in major festivals and events, contributing to shape the present and future of music in Portugal and abroad.
The recognition from crowds, promoters, other artists is the result of the talent and the dedication she has put into her journey, that so far has been marked by a deep and intimate connection and commitment to the dancefloor and to her work. One of her latest tracks, “C U in Hell”, released in Vermillion Trax, attracted the attention and collected the support from many huge names in the industry and as far as we can expect there’s still a lot more yet to come.
Interview with Ornella
LL: What first inspired you to pursue a career as a DJ and producer, and how did you get started in the music industry?
Ornella: I’ve always had a deep connection to music, but it was the energy and intensity of electronic music that really caught my attention. I started going to underground events and parties where techno was played and it hit me hard! The vibe, the power, that was exactly what I wanted to be a part of. My journey in the industry began with pure curiosity and over time this passion grew stronger, leading me to push myself creatively and technically, and then I started playing shows and releasing music.
LL: How would you describe your musical style, and what influences have shaped your sound over the years?
Ornella: I would describe my sound as intense and energetic. It’s deeply rooted in hardtechno, but I like to bring my own energy and personality into the mix. Over the years I have been inspired by various elements of the techno scene, artists who push the limits of sound and energy are always a big influence on me. I am also inspired by the emotions and experiences I have been through, which are reflected in my music. Playing venues like Fabrik and festivals like Sound Waves really allowed me to connect with the audience’s energy, and it’s had a huge impact on how I approach my sets and productions.
At the moment I’m really interested in schranz, this kind of music makes me feel crazy things and I want to keep exploring.
LL: Can you walk us through your creative process when producing a new track? How do you find inspiration, and what tools do you typically use?
Ornella: When I start a new track, it’s usually triggered by a feeling or mood I want to capture. Sometimes inspiration comes from a specific set I played, a crowd’s reaction, or even a random sound I hear throughout the day that sparks an idea. I usually start by creating a solid foundation with hard hitting drums and a strong bassline, as these form the backbone of my sound. From there, I layer darker atmospheres and distorted elements that give a trace of its intensity. I use Ableton Live as my main DAW, along with a variety of plugins like Serum and Diva etc…
The process is very fluid, I try to stay open to where the music leads.
LL: Do you have a favorite track or mix that you’ve created? What makes it special to you?
Ornella: My favorite track is without a doubt “C U in Hell”, it is special to me because it was released by Farrago’s label. An artist I really admire. It was a big milestone for me.
LL: What challenges have you faced as a young artist in the music industry, and how have you overcome them?
Ornella: Breaking into the music industry, especially as a young artist, can be difficult. One of the biggest challenges is standing out in such a saturated space, where there are so many talented producers and DJs. At first it was difficult to get noticed, especially when you work independently. I had to work hard to create my own opportunities, network, and keep moving forward even when the path wasn’t clear. Playing every weekend in Portugal helped me build a strong fan base and I focused on releasing quality music. Another challenge is maintaining balance, the industry moves quickly and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Keeping my feet on the ground, trusting the process, and having a clear vision of where I want to go has helped me overcome many of these obstacles.
Right now the most difficult thing is expanding my work outside of Portugal, however I know it is a process that takes time. I will keep working and not give up.
LL: The music industry is highly competitive. How do you stay ahead of trends while maintaining your unique sound?
Ornella: It’s important for me to stay connected to the underground scene while also being aware of what’s happening in the larger hardtechno scence. I don’t follow trends for the sake of it, but I take inspiration from new developments and find ways to incorporate them while still staying true to my own style. It’s about finding the balance between keeping the hard energy that defines my music and innovating enough to keep things fresh and exciting.
LL: What emotions did you experience while creating your latest track “Rave Rage”? How was your experience collaborating with Dimension 9?
Ornella: The emotion behind the track is definitely aggressive and intense, which reflects both the title and the vibe we wanted to create. Collaborating with Dimension 9 was an amazing experience. We both share a love for music, and that chemistry really came through in the production process. We fed off each other’s energy and ideas, which made the collaboration feel seamless and powerful.
LL: What are your goals for the future, both as a DJ and a producer? Are there any specific projects you’re excited about?
Ornella: My biggest goal is to play all over the world and bring my sound to new audiences. I’d love to do a b2b set with some of my favorite artists, especially Klangkuenstler, that would be a dream collaboration. I’m also excited about my upcoming music releases and what’s in store for next year. Another focus for me is my “all night long” parties and my project, “Ornella Invites”, which I’ve started organizing recently. It’s all about creating a unique experience for fans and bringing together artists who inspire me. I’m really looking forward to growing that project and seeing where it takes me.
LL: What advice would you give to other young aspiring DJs and producers who are just starting out?
Ornella: My biggest advice is to stay true to your own sound and vision. The music industry can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel pressure to conform or follow trends. But what will set you apart is your uniqueness, so don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks. Also, be prepared to put in the work , nothing happens overnight. Consistency, practice, and perseverance are key. Network with people in the scene, but most importantly, stay focused on improving your work. And remember, you’re going to face setbacks, but those moments are part of the journey. Trust your process, stay passionate, and keep pushing forward.
Listen to Ornella Music
