Sabo, whose real name is William Sabatini, has carved out a distinctive space in the global electronic music scene. His sound is a captivating fusion of various cultural influences, seamlessly blending tropical rhythms, deep basslines, tribal percussion, and lush organic textures. His DJ sets create a journey through sound that transports listeners to far-off places—whether it's the feeling of dancing under a Saharan sunrise or in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. This immersive experience has made him a staple at prestigious festivals such as Burning Man, Coachella, Fusion, Lightning in a Bottle, and Robot Heart
Sabo’s roots in music go deeper than just DJing; he has been instrumental in shaping the moombahton genre alongside its creator, Dave Nada. Heavily influenced by Latin cumbia and modern beats, Sabo’s contributions to the genre, including tracks and compilations like Moombahton Massive, helped define its sound and paved the way for its growing influence. His versatility as an artist is evident in his work with various influential labels such as Diplo’s Mad Decent, MAN Recordings, and his own imprint, Sol*Selectas
As a label head, Sabo’s SolSelectas* is known for pushing the boundaries of electronic music, emphasizing spiritual, deep, and organic dance sounds. The label is home to underground talents from across the globe, supporting both emerging and well-known producers. This vision of spiritually uplifting music with a positive intent defines much of Sabo’s artistic direction
Throughout his career, Sabo has also been involved in high-profile gigs outside the festival circuit. He has performed at esteemed venues like the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim in New York. His clientele extends beyond the music scene, as he has collaborated with brands such as Puma, Gucci, and Bloomingdale’s for exclusive events. His eclectic style, which marries deep spiritual sounds with modern electronic music, has earned him critical acclaim and respect within the industry
Sabo’s deep connection to nature and spirituality is also a defining feature of his music. He often highlights how his music is meant for outdoor spaces, where the rhythms can resonate with nature, whether that’s in the desert at Burning Man or along tropical coastlines. His commitment to this holistic approach to music has also led him to support initiatives like Bye Bye Plastic, which aim to reduce the environmental impact of the music industry
In summary, Sabo’s career is a multifaceted journey of innovation, cultural fusion, and spiritual connection, making him a dynamic force in the global electronic music landscape. His ability to blend deep, organic sounds with a modern electronic edge has set him apart, allowing him to thrive both as a DJ and label head while continuing to influence the future of dance music
DISCOLYPSO QUESTIONNAIRE
What was the first record you can remember buying? Tell us about an important early musical experience.
The first vinyl I ever bought was in 1984 and I was 8 years old. I had just witnessed Grandmaster DST
scratching on live TV with Herbie Hancock when they performed “Rockit” on Saturday Night Live. At the same time the movie “Breakin’” came out. I picked up a copy of “Breakdance”, and amazing compilation released on K-Tel. The record even came with
instructional “how to break dance” poster inside, and a street slang “vocabulary” section. I was instantly addicted to hip hop, graffiti , and break dance culture.
What was your first musical composition, edit or remix?
The first real track that Ireleased was called “Sambafrica” back in 2005. I made it with Zeb (now known as The Spy from Cairo) and we released 500 white label copies on vinyl as the very first Sol*Selectas release. It waskind of a mash up party breaks track with bits from Lionel Ritchie and Fela Kuti, over the Coolie Dance rhythm
What do you wish we had more of in the electronic music scene?
Humility
Where or when are you most at peace?
Sounds cliche, but I’m most happy behind the decks, about 90 minutes into a long extended set, when I finallygot my groove, and I look up and see full attentive happy smiling faces on the dance floor. That’s when I knowthe crowd is with me, and ready to be taken on a musical journey.
What song do you put on when you want to relax?
Jamaican Dub / Roots Reggae every time
How did you decide that music was your calling? Is it your sole focus?
My very first warehouse rave in ’93 was somewhere in Long Island, and Frankie Bones was playing for about 3000 kids on a 10foot tower of bass bins. He dropped “French Kiss” by Lil Louis and in that moment I was mindblown, and knew I wanted to be DJ. Around 2005 I finally got the balls to quit my day job as Engineer, and I’vebeen 110% fueling this passion for music, and gratefully surviving from it, ever since.
If money and death was not a factor - who would play at your wedding or birthday - both live acts and djs?
Ultimate wedding line up for me would be Joao Gilberto for cocktail hour, Sade singing for reception and firstdance. Then James Brown, and Parliament / Funkadelic would playfor the dinner party, followed by Larry LevanDjing the after party til sunrise
Which acts are really exciting you at the moment?
On Sol Selectas we have amazing new music coming fromAmentia, Zakir, Goldcap, Namito, and Raidho.Been really digging the sounds from Islandman, Chaim, RedAxes, Kermesse, David Mayer, and Acid Pauli. Also, I can’t wait to hear the new albums from the Spy from Cairoand Be Svendsen
