Daniel Cuda, a rising talent from Melbourne’s underground scene, has returned to his roots with his latest single “Miss You,” released on You Do You, a sub-label of Onelove Recordings. Following his standout releases on labels like Techaway, Milk Crate, Nervous, and Paul’s Boutique, Daniel’s new track solidifies his growing reputation. “Miss You” is an infectious underground groove, driven by a captivating voicemail sample and loaded with swinging rhythms, bottom-heavy bass, and intricate melodies, crafted for powerful sound systems and packed dancefloors. In our interview, Daniel shares the creative process behind ‘Miss You,’ the influence of the Melbourne dance scene on his sound, and the challenges he has faced in the industry.
How do the artists you admire, such as Skream and Armand Van Helden, influence your music style, and are there specific elements from their work that you consciously incorporate into your own?
Skream, Armand Van Helden, and so many others have been huge influences on my sound. With Skream, I’ve always admired how he moves across genres effortlessly while maintaining a unique identity. I try to emulate his versatility by experimenting with different sounds, yet still keeping my style intact.
Can you describe your process for creating tracks like ‘Miss You’?
The process for this one was different from anything else I’ve ever made because it starts with a concept—in this case, a breakup vibe. I built the groove around an emotional idea, then added a voicemail recording I thought suited the vibe and also gave some Lo-Fi warmth. From there, I crafted the melody and bassline to keep the energy while still holding onto that
emotional core.
For “Miss You,” what do you think makes a track truly resonate with club-goers?
It’s about balancing emotion with energy. A track resonates when it hits a personal note while still driving the dancefloor forward. I think “Miss You” does that by combining the break-up narrative with a solid groove.
With ‘WHYD’ reaching number 11 on Beatport’s Minimal/Deep Tech chart, how do you feel about the impact that chart success has on your career?
Chart success is a boost, opening more doors and exposure, but for me, it’s more about reaching as many people as possible and creating music that people like regardless of high well it does on the charts.
What motivated you to establish your labels, Milk Crate and Wasted Music? How do you curate the artists and tracks that are released under these imprints?
Starting Milk Crate and Wasted Music was about creating platforms where I could have some personal creative control and help provide a platform for friends and up-and-coming artists. With both labels, my partners and I try to curate music that feels aligns with our music taste while still keeping it dancefloor-focused.
You host a monthly radio show on Area 3000. How does this platform contribute to your connection with fans and the broader music community?
The radio show is a really important platform for me and Milk Crate. It’s a way to share new music, being my own, new music from the label and from other artists I admire. Area 3000 is a Melbourne-based internet radio station, and we have had a show with them since they launched. It’s rewarding for the label to contribute to the local music community through its partnership with A3k.
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Can you share any details about the themes or concepts you hope to explore in your upcoming projects?
I’ve got a few projects in the works where I’m exploring deeper subliminal themes, similar to “Miss You,” but with a bit more obscurity. I’m also working on more collaborations, which I think will bring a new perspective to my sound.
How does Melbourne’s nightlife and electronic music culture influence your work as a DJ and producer? Are there specific aspects of the local scene that you feel set your music apart?
Melbourne’s nightlife has been a huge influence on me as a DJ. I feel like Melbourne punters are such harsh critics sometimes but it helps you learn to adapt as a DJ. The city has such a vibrant underground scene, and there’s always this energy in the clubs that push you to experiment and take risks.
Over the past decade, what challenges have you faced, and how have you adapted to changes in the industry?
I’ve adapted by evolving with the industry while staying true to my sound. Whether it’s dealing with trends, streaming, or the pandemic, I’ve embraced change and focused on refining my craft.
You’ve expressed admiration for music that is both unique and timeless. How do you define timelessness in music, and what do you hope your legacy as an artist will be in the electronic music landscape?
Timeless music is something that stays relevant over time because it’s genuine. I hope someday I can create music that connects with people on a really deep level and leaves a lasting impact on the culture.
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