David Morales: “A good melody is king”

Across more than four decades, David Morales has remained a defining presence in house music, navigating its evolution as a DJ, producer, remixer and label head. Among his recent releases, "SABALALA", out via his DIRIDIM Records imprint, blends Afro House influences with soulful songwriting while unfolding across multiple interpretations, each offering a distinct perspective on the same composition.

In this conversation, the artist reflects on the making of "SABALALA", his collaboration with Georgia Cee and his perspective on Afro House's growing international reach. He also shares his thoughts on originality in today's electronic music landscape, the role of remixes in extending a record's identity, what he continues to value in creative collaborations after decades in the industry, and what's next for DIRIDIM Records, including a forthcoming album and several new collaborative projects.

You have always been known for blending underground credibility with broad appeal. How did you approach striking that balance on “SABALALA”, a record that feels equally suited to the dancefloor and more intimate listening environments?

I had an instrumental track that I thought Georgia Cee would be great on, so I sent her the track. She liked it, and she had the song done by the next day. This track was put together rather quickly.

Afro house has become one of the most globally resonant sounds in electronic music today. From your perspective, what has allowed the genre to connect with audiences across such diverse cultural and geographical backgrounds?

Well, there are different styles of Afro house that I like. I've always said that a good melody over any kind of music is king. The Afro house track that was done by &ME, Rampa and Adam Port was the first Afro house track to reach pop status.

Having helped shape house music’s global evolution from the Paradise Garage era to the present day, what excites you most about the current generation of Afro house producers and vocalists?

Honestly, I'm not a big fan of trends, and in Afro house, like many trends that become popular, too many tracks sound the same. I've worked with some of the earlier South African artists, like Toshi and Shota. I like some of the authentic Afro house tracks. I love the rhythm and the melodies.

The initial release of “SABALALA” includes four distinct versions of the track. When you are producing multiple interpretations of the same record, what tells you that each mix has its own identity rather than simply being an alternative arrangement?

They all have their own vibe. One is just raw, another starts out dramatic, another has more musical textures, and then you just have chants. I think like a DJ. I can weave in between all of them, and it will sound like one version.

Its remix package introduces interpretations from Ameer Brooks and TSOS. What qualities do you look for in remixers, and what surprised you most about the directions they took with “SABALALA”?

In Ameer Brooks' case, he did it on his own, submitted it, and I really liked it. With TSOS, I like their sound. I don't normally ask people to remix my songs.

You launched DIRIDIM Records in 2018 with a vision of championing both established and emerging talent. What qualities do you look for in artists today, and how has that perspective evolved throughout your career?

I look for originality. Freshness. Remember that I'm a DJ first, so I love to play tracks, and for the scene to keep evolving and stay interesting, we need new talent to drive that evolution. That's what makes playing music for 50 years so interesting.

You've collaborated with everyone from underground house artists to some of the biggest names in popular music. What do you think makes a collaboration truly memorable rather than simply successful?

What you end up learning. I've learned a lot by working with many of the incredible artists that I've been honoured to work with. You never stop learning.

Before we wrap up, are there any forthcoming projects for the remainder of the year that you'd like to share with our readers?

I'm working on a new album that should be coming out in the fall, a new Brooklyn Friends EP, and some other collaborations with other artists.

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Listen to the full "SABALALA" release below.

Stream David Morales' top tracks below.