Ollie Mundy, renowned worldwide for his emotive House and Techno fusion, captivates audiences with his heartwarming and melancholic sounds, showcased through his OvavaMusic imprint, acclaimed “Deep Tunes For Deep Playa” series, and standout sets at major festivals, while holding residencies and radio shows, rapidly emerging as a top new producer with upcoming releases on prestigious labels. DMC checks in…
Introduce yourself, who exactly is Ollie Mundy?
Hey there! I’m Ollie Mundy, and my journey into the world of music began back in 1998 with just a few belt drive decks and a handful of jungle records. This humble start led me to organising parties in my hometown, followed by a transformative season in Ibiza in 2003 where I immersed myself in music every night, despite not earning a penny.
The experience left me broke but completely enamoured with music, prompting my move to London. From 2004 to 2019, I delved deep into the vibrant London party scene, attending renowned events like Halo, Lovepuppy, Secret Sundaze, and YouAreWe, while also performing at iconic venues such as The Cross, The Key, Ministry of Sound, Turnmills, and Fabric. Regular trips to Ibiza, Amsterdam, and Burning Man further enriched my musical knowledge.
Despite always harbouring a desire to create music, I initially struggled with it. However, in 2013, I began collaborating with friends and attending numerous sessions, gradually honing my skills and improving my craft. While I lack formal training or courses, my learning from others, online resources, and a music retreat in Portugal in 2019 enabled me to start enjoying the music I was creating. When lockdown hit, I seized the opportunity to dedicate myself fully to music production. By the end of 2023, I had a collection of tracks that I was eager to refine and master. Excitingly, I have a couple of releases lined up for this summer and am launching my own label, Ovava, featuring more of my work and showcasing new talent in the coming year.
What first inspired you to become a producer?
Regarding what inspired me to become a producer, it was the magic of losing oneself on the dancefloor during my early clubbing years that initially captivated me. However, the true inspiration came during my visits to Burning Man, particularly in 2010 and subsequent years where I discovered a deeper, more profound sound that resonated with me. The enchanting sunrises accompanied by soul-stirring music left me spellbound and fueled my passion for producing music.
How did your new “ Master Of The Ocean” track come about?
I was playing at a festival in the Dominican Republic called by the same name. It’s a water sport festival with some amazing athletes all fighting to be crowned the next ‘Master of the Ocean’. I was sitting on the beach with my laptop and the music just flowed out, but it needed something a bit extra…original Spanish vocals. I found a wonderful singer called Estefa Silvera from Argentina and she nailed it.
I have also made another track with her called ‘Pa Mi’ coming out soon on my label Ovava Music.
What’s your ideal vision for your music career when it comes to labels or dream gigs?
Regarding my ideal vision for my music career, I feel incredibly fortunate to have already had the chance to play at some of the wildest parties, events, and festivals throughout my tenure in the music industry. For me, exposure and connections with people are key factors in the ideal vision for my career. I want to bring my music to as many people as possible and help new artists reach wider audiences. My dream is to create a platform that can assist upcoming talent to reach their goals.
Which instrument did you first play and at what age?
When it comes to my skills on musical instruments, I haven’t quite mastered any yet. However, I’ve tried a few over the years. I first played electric guitar at around 10 years old, learning groovy tracks like ZZ Top’s “Give Me All Your Lovin.” I have also made a yearly resolution for the past decade to learn the piano but have failed to follow through despite numerous attempts.
Were your family supportive in your formative music career?
As for my family’s support of my music career, I don’t believe they were quite aware of what I was up to in the early days. However, I enjoyed what I was doing and had fun pursuing it.
Outside of music, what else makes you tick?
Outside of music, I have another venture that keeps me occupied. I run my own e-commerce business, BoutiqueCamping.com which specialises in producing canvas tents for the glamping world. The idea for this endeavour came to me in 2010 while attending a music festival and I realised that I could create a better product. After selling my flat, I teamed up with my business partner, Fiaz, and we launched BoutiqueCamping.com. This venture has taken off and continues to be a part of my life outside of music and DJing.
What would be your perfect collaboration?
Simple… Ludovico Einaudi. Piano wizard!
Talk us through your creative process
….normally I’ll be walking the dog in the woods and an idea will come to me. I try to get that out as quickly as possible and then build around that. I don’t waste time trying to make things perfect. I keep the speed up and flow with what comes out. Once that process is exhausted, I will go back and start tweaking things. While I’m in the creative stage I like to work outside and not in a studio. Ideally looking at a sunset with an ice cold drink.
What’s the story behind your artist name?
There is no story about my name. It’s my name. However, I will let you in on some embarrassing ones. Twist (as in Oliver) Ollie M (obvs) Ollie2Vans (long story about a mate who had 2 vans). I thought I could make this better by changing it to Ollie de Van but luckily decided against it (thank god). So I just stuck with my name.
What’s something we don’t already know about Ollie Mundy?
I’ve been learning Spanish for 1000 days on an app and still can’t speak it!
Do you have any weaknesses you’re actively trying to improve?
Playing the piano obviously. And mix downs.
Which piece of studio kit is your favourite and why?
I’m the guy who makes his best music by the pool. So my favourite bits are all software…Valhalla Vintage Reverb never fails to make me happy.
What is it about music that excites you most?
Music is the soundtrack to life. I listen to music all day, everyday, whatever I’m doing. It connects people that don’t speak the same language. It literally is what makes everything exciting! If I don’t have my headphones with me at the gym, I go home.
Give us 3 of your favourite songs, past or present…
So many…..ummm
Marcus Worgull, Peter Pardeike – Lenoix (Original Mix)
Tiago Fragateiro, Tracey K, DJ Yellow – Special (Original Mix)
Shadow Dancer – Parallax – Original Mix
What advice would you pass onto younger generations?
Stop trying to be something you are not. Stop wasting time, believe in yourself and go for it.
The biggest risk in life… is not taking one.
What’s the best piece of advice another person ever gave you?
There are no rules, Do what you like. (re: music)
DJs are often great Chefs with creativity in their blood. Is this the case for you?
I guess so, going back to my glamping business, I self taught myself how to design structures. All our exclusive designs are designed by me.
Clothes maketh the man… sounds materialistic but are you into fashion?
I mean who doesn’t like clothes! I’m not into fashion but I like to have items that not many others have and enjoy finding them when I do. Please note.. If you see me wearing something mad at a festival, it probably means my mums made it. haha
Where can we find you performing next?
I’m not sure when this is coming out, but the gig I’m most excited about is Burning Man. Find me on the Maxa camp art car one sunrise morning!
Any other releases in the pipeline that we should know about?
Yes, I have an EP on Sondela and another EP on MyOtherSideOfTheMoon both coming out around September I think.
Open plug, why should people support your new release?
I have a few tracks that are coming out over the next 12 months which I’m very proud of and love. So I hope if you connect with one, you will find many more that could be the soundtrack to your next adventure.
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Ollie Mundy: Linktree
