Nathan Barato on His Remix of Tyler Hill’s Single “Smooth,” Toronto Club Scene, and More

Being a staple of the local club scene for over 15 years is no easy feat, so let’s give some big props to Nathan Barato. The DJ and producer has been a big draw within the Toronto club scene for a while now. That local popularity has snowballed into recognition and fan followings across North America and into Europe. Recently, Barato helped launch the new electronic-focused record label Wiggle Room Records with a remix of the song “Smooth” by Toronto-based music producer and DJ Tyler Hill. Hill has been a mainstay of the Toronto club scene for over 25 years and is widely respected by his peers for his live sets, combining tech-house and techno.

Regarding Barato, he has recently been busy in the recording studio, working on a wide array of projects. He has upcoming releases on various labels, including Rekids, Defected, Culprit, D-Floor, Blackflag, Area Remote, King Street, and his Roots And Wings Music. Barato is a prolific DJ who does not limit himself to specific sounds or genres. He preaches diversity within his music, and for that, he is in high demand, playing in clubs and festivals around the entire globe.

Recently, we spoke with Barato to learn more about him as an individual and a music maker.

How would you describe your creative process?

Nathan Barato: “I usually don’t have the same creative process; it changes from project to project. Sometimes I try to do thing something different and learn from alternate ways of working to help keep things spicy.”

Who are your biggest influences?

“I’m really lucky for the influences that I’ve had. My brother is probably the biggest influence in my life, but early on, I always wanted to DJ like my big brother and make music like MAW or John Ciafone… I’m very influenced by NYC house sound from around the ’90s.”

What is the club or music scene like in Toronto?

“I’ve always considered Toronto to be a healthy place for partying. There are lots of people that like to party here, and there is a deep heritage of clubbing. I’m very lucky to come up in the city like this.”

Artwork for the single “Smooth” (Nathan Barato Remix) by Tyler Hill

What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?

“Straight up: I been really lucky in that I’ve had a lot. So many, in fact, that I can’t pick just one, sorry!”

Tell us about this new track, “Smooth.” What was your experience of working on it? What went on behind the scenes? Any notable moments that stand out?

“It was pretty cool to work on this remix of Tyler for the Wiggle Room crew and their new label. I just tried to have fun with it and tried to keep it simple. Sometimes the simple things work out the best, and it’s definitely one I’m happy with.”

What’s the best criticism you’ve ever received about your music or performance?

“Always try to be original and true to yourself. It’s not the easiest thing to do sometimes, but it’s always the aim.”

Wiggle Room Records presents plaque to Nathan Barato & Tyler Hill

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

“I don’t think I would change anything about the industry, to be honest. If I could change anything, it would be my past… and it would be that I was more active and making music and releasing music a lot earlier in my life and career. Sure, there are a lot of problems and a lot of issues in the industry, but to me, it’s beautiful as it is.”

Do you ever get stage fright? What’s your solution for it?

“Yeah, I definitely get stage fright. Maybe it’s not exactly stage fright. More like when people stare at me so closely with a lot of lights in my face. That’s always hard for me, but I try to work it out as best I can, and try to hide behind the music.”

What’s next for you?

“I have a bunch of releases lined up, and a couple more remixes do to come out as well.”