We had the good fortune of connecting with Arianna Garcia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arianna, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Your passage is clear, but let me offer a refined version:

In the nightlife industry, achieving a balance can be challenging due to our unconventional work schedules. While the majority works during the day, our activities extend into the night, disrupting our sleep and eating routines. Despite these challenges, I make a conscious effort to reserve weekends for personal time with friends and family. Maintaining this balance is crucial for mental well-being, although I remain dedicated to my work, which, fortunately, is inherently enjoyable and celebratory.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Currently, one of my main challenges is nailing down my distinctive sound. While I mainly stick to tech house, I also find enjoyment in other genres like Afro House, Melodic Techno, and House. This variety makes it a bit tricky for me to pinpoint my brand and sound.

Besides that challenge,what really sets me apart is ensuring my sets are a blast for the crowd. My primary focus as a DJ is to get people dancing and wanting to stay longer.

A significant part of how I’ve come this far is by staying true to myself, which has allowed me to form relationships that have proven crucial in my career. I’ve learned that being talented will only take you so far if you don’t have a platform to showcase it. In this industry, success often hinges on connections and relationships – a valuable lesson I’ve picked up along the way. Many talented DJs might not be widely recognized because they haven’t crossed paths with the right people or made an effort to connect with key figures who could make a difference.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Currently in school in Tallahassee, I’d say that being a college town, it’s definitely on the smaller side. If someone visits, I’d take them to my favorite spots to eat. Shula’s is a fantastic steakhouse, Sake House serves the best sushi in town (in my opinion), and Little Masa has incredible fried rice. For a hangout spot with drinks or food, Brickhouse or Township would be my go-to choices. Wonkytown stands out for its vibrant crowd and energetic party atmosphere – the energy in that place is unmatched. I appreciate that it’s not a typical club, making it more intimate.

Apart from Wonkytown, my nightlife preferences lean towards house music shows. If a friend wants to explore the bass and dubstep scene, Riddim Resistance is the go-to for quality shows in that genre. They really stand out as the top choice. For a night out with drinks and throwback tunes, I’d probably take them to Purg on Thursdays or the Strip on Fridays.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Several individuals have profoundly impacted me in a positive way, either by directly imparting knowledge or motivating me to achieve significant milestones. Firstly, Andres Villegas ignited my interest in DJing and has evolved into a close friend. From the moment I first touched a DJ board to my regular performances in clubs across Florida, Andres has been every step of the way. Secondly, Max Blum became my mentor and friend, imparting essential DJing skills. Both Andres and Max formed a support system for my career. Lastly, but no less significant, Kendrick Fleming provided me with my first opportunity to play at nightclubs in Tallahassee. Since our meeting, he has consistently supported my growth, believing in my talent and allowing me to showcase it. After Kendrick giving me my first show, my career really took off to achieving those big shows I always dreamed of doing.

Instagram: @syala.music

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@SYALAMUSIC?si=gCy0gNSAHHnlWdk0

Other: Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/RWrwG4Uw1Mrnu9Ho9

Image Credits
@kevinfarley_ @itsenriquearmas @joeyrakipi

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.