An Inspired Chat with Antonio Vasquez of SF

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Antonio Vasquez. Check out our conversation below.

Antonio, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I started djing again september of last year and have already secured a few residencies in the bay. I also feel proud that I have djed at the Blue Note Jazz festival and there’s another opportunity for a third residency as well.. 🙂 Feel very proud of that.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a DJ born in the Dominican Republic and now based in the Bay Area. Having also lived in New York, Chicago, and LA, I draw on the musical influences of each city to craft vibrant, dynamic sets that keep dance floors moving. I’m deeply interested in global rhythms — sounds that move people regardless of language, because they speak to something fundamental in our shared humanity. Rooted in the rhythms of my Dominican upbringing, my sound blends styles like Baile Funk, Afrobeats, Latin, Afro/Deep/Organic House, Hip Hop, R&B, and Funk — creating a fusion that’s both energetic and soulful.

I’ve had the chance to play at a wide range of venues, from intimate lounges and clubs to lively block parties and major festivals across the Bay Area and beyond. My sets are all about reading the crowd and blending genres and rhythms to take people on a journey — keeping the energy high and the connection real.

Outside of DJing, I’m also a teacher. I teach students how to analyze society critically and encourage them to think for themselves — to question, imagine, and create new possibilities. That same spirit of curiosity and reflection carries into my music. Whether I’m curating the perfect set, exploring new sounds, or drawing inspiration from nature and movement, I approach it all with passion, excitement, and authenticity — always looking to connect people through rhythm, thought, and feeling.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I did some community organizing in Chicago and saw firsthand the power of bringing people together under a shared goal. I witnessed my mentor lead successful campaigns that secured important rights for people, and I had the opportunity to help raise the minimum wage in Illinois at the time. That experience showed me that even though we’re born into what can feel like a fixed world, we have the power to change it—to shape it in a way that truly works for us, the people.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be this: no matter what happens, you are unique and have a heart of gold. Don’t ever let anyone make you feel like you need to change who you are to fit in or be accepted. The way you think, the way you care, and the way you see the world are special — even if it doesn’t always feel that way.

There will be moments when you doubt yourself, when people misunderstand your intentions or make you question your worth. In those times, remember that your light is real and your kindness matters. Life isn’t about being perfect or pleasing everyone — it’s about having fun, feeling good, growing through what comes your way, and experiencing as much of this world as you possibly can.

I would also tell you that what you consume matters — not just what you eat, but what you listen to, watch, and allow into your energy. Eat to nurture your temple and keep your mind clear. Protect your peace and choose things that bring you closer to the person you want to become.

Stay curious, stay open, and never lose that spark that makes you you.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that community matters to me a lot. Having a sense of belonging and being part of something bigger than myself feels so good and truly essential. They’d also say that I believe everyone deserves to have their basic needs met and equal opportunities to become whoever they want to be — to study, grow, and do the kind of work that calls to them.

To me, life is meant to be enjoyed. Everyone should be having fun, laughing often, and celebrating the simple moments. Laughter is essential, music is magic, and listening to our hearts is crucial. I’m all about living with intention — eating a plant-based diet, honoring plant medicine, and staying connected to what keeps our bodies, minds, and spirits aligned.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story I hope people tell about me when I’m gone is that I truly had fun — and that I made the people around me feel good and have fun too. That I had an incredible taste in music and in life itself. That I manifested my dream life and inspired others to believe they could do the same.

I hope they say I took care of my family and gave them the comfort and peace they deserved, retiring them early so they could enjoy life fully. I hope they remember me as someone who spent his time traveling the world, creating music, and sharing it with others — spreading joy, rhythm, and connection wherever I went.

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