Toronto-based DJ and producer MARTA is making waves with her 90s rave-inspired sound and underground-meets-main-stage energy. With releases on Confession and Trace Amounts—and support from Tiësto, Westend, and John Summit—she’s quickly becoming one to watch. We caught up with her to talk influences, production, and what’s next.

Could you briefly introduce yourself?

I’m MARTA. I’m based out of Toronto, Canada and I’m an indie dance tech house sometimes techno DJ. I’ve been in the industry for about three years now and it’s been a wild ride so far.

How did you get your start in the dance music industry?

Oh gosh- I grew up on dance music, but euro-style dance music. I’ve been doing to shows and raves since I was like 15.

So during the pandemic, I bought a set of decks and just started to teach myself. It’s been really fun trying so far and I’m learning more and more everyday.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in the EDM scene?

Definitely deadma5. He’s also from Canada- he grew up in Niagara Falls and then moved to Toronto for a bit. It hits close to home so see someone from the area make it big, and every deadmau5 show I’ve been to has been absolutely insane.

What are your goals for yourself and your career?

I really want to play more festivals, and I mean BIG festivals. Like Ultra in Miami, Tomorrowland, and Coachella. That would be a dream. I also am continuing to work on and develop my sound and I’m really excited to share it with the world.

Have you had a really embarrassing stage moment?

Oh yeah… I opened for John Summit in Toronto last summer. It was a crazy moment and I was really excited and a bit starstruck to be opening for him. He asked me to play at the afters with him, and of course I said yes. At one point during afters, he had to use the washroom and asked me if I had my USB so I could take over for a few. But, I couldn’t find it. It was so embarrassing- I knew I messed up badly. It was a tough pill to swallow for sure. He ended up not going to the bathroom.. and reminded me after never to forget my USB again, and to bring backups!

Who would you love to collaborate with in the future?

Solomun for sure. Hands down, he’s incredible. That man is an absolute tastemaker and I’ve loved every single set I’ve ever listened to from him. I used to travel around to different cities just to see him perform.

I’d also love to collaborate with a vocalist like HAYLA someday. I got to meet her at John Summit’s Toronto show and she was such a sweetheart. She has such an incredible, angelic voice and is so talented.

What advice would you give for those looking to get started in the music industry as a DJ or producer?

Consistency is key. There were definitely moments when I wanted to give up, but I kept going- and I’m so glad I did.

Connect with MARTA:

Instagram | SoundCloud | Spotify | YouTube