Authentic, resilient, and driven by a passion that transcends borders, DJ Bravat stands out as one of the most prominent names in Brazil’s LGBTQIA+ electronic scene with a truly global reach. Since 2009, he has brought his sound to dance floors around the world, building deep connections everywhere he goes — from Backdoor in Amsterdam to stages in countries where diversity still means resistance.
With over 70 international performances under his belt, Bravat has built his path by overcoming challenges, adapting to diverse audiences, and staying true to his musical identity. His sets go far beyond entertainment. They are bridges between cultures, territories, and lived experiences that come together in the shared rhythm of freedom.
Bravat is the kind of artist who doesn’t just perform — he welcomes. Each appearance is fueled by intention, emotional depth, and a strong commitment to the queer scene, whether on massive stages or alongside emerging talents.
In this exclusive interview with Cultura Queer and Radio Power Strike, DJ Bravat opens up about key moments in his international career, the behind-the-scenes challenges that shaped him, the weight and pride of representing Brazil’s LGBTQIA+ community, and the deep connections that music continues to create in his journey.
Exclusive Interview with DJ Bravat
Your career spans over a decade, with performances in more than 70 places around the world. Was there a defining moment when you realized you had secured your place on the international scene as a Brazilian DJ?
Having the opportunity to perform alongside renowned artists and receive recognition from both critics and the public made me realize that I had truly earned my place in the international scene.
That feeling of belonging and acceptance — especially coming from such a diverse audience — was a milestone in my journey. From that moment on (I believe it was around 2013), I understood that music could be a powerful vehicle for unity and the celebration of diversity. It inspired me to keep exploring and expanding my career.
With such a long list of countries and clubs where you’ve performed, there must be some incredible stories. Is there a backstage experience or unforgettable moment from an international gig that truly left a mark on you?
There isn’t exactly one unforgettable moment, mainly because over 18 years of career I’ve lived so many different experiences, each with its own emotion. All of them have been important and meaningful for my growth as a professional.
But there were definitely some backstage situations that stood out — like when the USB stick wouldn’t load on the CDJ, or when both CDJs froze at the same time (laughs), or even when the headphone jack broke inside the mixer and I had to mix without headphones… These kinds of challenges were true trial-by-fire moments that shaped me into the DJ I am today.
Your sound resonates with audiences from many different cultures. How do you adapt your sets and energy when performing in such diverse places, and what have you learned about connecting people through music around the world?
Adapting my sets and energy to different cultural contexts is a challenge I embrace with dedication. Every place has its own characteristics, and that inspires me to be flexible.
I usually do research on the audience and their musical preferences before each performance. During the set, I try to create an emotional connection with the crowd, using elements that feel familiar to them while also introducing my own influences.
Through this, I’ve learned that music is a universal language. Regardless of cultural barriers, the emotions it evokes are similar. Joy, dance, and celebration are feelings we all share.
That understanding motivates me to create sets that don’t just entertain but also bring people together — generating a space of inclusion and freedom. In the end, what really matters is the genuine connection we create through music, turning every event into a unique celebration.
You’ve been touring internationally since 2009, which surely came with challenges. Was there a significant obstacle you faced as a Brazilian artist performing abroad, and how did you overcome it?
Being a Brazilian DJ working on the global stage since 2009 has been an incredible journey — but not without its challenges. One of the most significant obstacles I faced was gaining acceptance and recognition.
In some places, the local culture can be quite different and sometimes even resistant. I remember performing at a festival in a country where electronic music was still emerging and the LGBTQIA+ scene wasn’t very visible. At first, I sensed the crowd was hesitant to engage.
To overcome that, I chose to incorporate elements of Brazilian culture into my set — rhythms and melodies that brought a sense of our identity. I learned that, despite the barriers, music has the power to bring people together. That kind of resilience is essential for any artist who wants to leave a mark on the world.
Representing the Brazilian electronic scene around the world comes with a great deal of responsibility. How do you view the impact of carrying the LGBTQIA+ flag to international stages?
Representing Brazil’s electronic music scene abroad — especially while carrying the LGBTQIA+ flag with me — is, without a doubt, both a great responsibility and a true honor.
Music holds a powerful ability to transform, and when I play on international stages, I feel that I’m not just delivering a set. I’m sharing a piece of Brazil’s rich culture and diversity.
My role as a DJ goes beyond music. It’s about building bridges between cultures, inspiring others, and promoting acceptance. The responsibility I carry motivates me to keep pushing forward, so that both the Brazilian electronic scene and the LGBTQIA+ community continue to be recognized and celebrated worldwide.
You’ve built a strong reputation in the global scene. Was there ever a moment when someone you admire recognized your work? How did it feel to receive that kind of acknowledgment from someone meaningful to you?
It didn’t come exactly from another artist, but rather from a world-renowned party producer. That recognition was incredibly emotional for me and made me feel that all the effort and dedication I had put into my work was paying off.
Having someone with that much influence in the industry validate what I do lit a whole new fire inside me. Receiving that kind of acknowledgment felt like a stamp of approval — not just for my talent, but also for my artistic vision.
The feeling of seeing my work appreciated by someone I deeply admire was indescribable. It reinforced my belief that I’m on the right path.
After performing in so many places, is there a destination or crowd that surprised you with how strongly they connected to your sound? What made that experience stand out from the rest?
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had was performing at the Backdoor party in Amsterdam. From the very first time I stepped into that booth, six years ago, to this day, I’ve felt a powerful connection with the crowd that truly surprised me.
The Backdoor audience is known for being incredibly open and welcoming, and you can feel that in the way they fully give themselves to the music.
After experiencing party cultures around the world, what has been the biggest inspiration you’ve brought back to Brazil in terms of music or performance?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to experience an incredible variety of party cultures around the world. One of the greatest inspirations I brought back to Brazil was the idea of creating unique experiences and introducing new sounds to the Brazilian audience.
Despite your international schedule, you’ve remained connected to the local scene. How has the Brazilian LGBTQIA+ electronic scene evolved since you started, and how do you work to support that growth?
It’s amazing to see how the LGBTQIA+ electronic scene in Brazil has evolved over the years. When I started, it was much more limited, with less visibility for artists and events focused on the community.
In recent years, however, there’s been a significant increase. The presence of LGBTQIA+ DJs and producers has become more prominent, which helps inspire new generations of artists.
To support that growth, I always try to give space to new talent and collaborate with emerging artists. The Brazilian LGBTQIA+ scene has transformed significantly, and it keeps evolving.
It’s a privilege to be part of this movement and to have contributed to the scene from the very beginning.
With so many years on the road, every performance comes with a wealth of experience. What would the DJ Bravat of today say to the DJ Bravat of 2009, when you were just starting out and playing for smaller audiences?
If I could have a conversation with the DJ Bravat of 2009, I’d say that the journey is an essential part of the process. The first thing I’d emphasize is the importance of believing in yourself and your music.
I’d talk about staying true to your style and being authentic. Sometimes there’s pressure to follow trends, but it’s crucial to hold on to your musical identity.
I’d also highlight the importance of networking and building connections, as well as staying open to learning. Technology and music trends are constantly evolving, so keeping up to date and embracing new influences is key.
Most importantly, I’d say to enjoy every moment. Looking back with gratitude and pride is essential — because every experience helped shape the DJ Bravat I am today.
Finally, for your Brazilian fans at Cultura Queer and your international audience at Radio Power Strike, what message of celebration and unity would you like to share with the LGBTQIA+ community that follows your music?
No matter where you are in the world, you are part of something bigger. The unity we find in music is a reminder that we are never alone.
Together, we create a space where acceptance and love prevail — where everyone can feel free to be authentic. Let’s keep dancing, loving, and supporting each other, because it’s in our unity that we find true strength.
I’m endlessly grateful for every one of you who has joined me on this journey. Let’s keep moving forward together, dancing to the rhythm of love and acceptance, and making our scene more vibrant and welcoming every day.
DJ Bravat has built more than an international career. He has shaped a journey defined by authenticity, by the courage to stay true to his sonic identity, and by a proud commitment to representing the diversity of Brazil’s LGBTQIA+ electronic music scene.
His presence on the decks is also a political, emotional, and artistic presence. Every set, every performance, and every behind-the-scenes decision carries the mission of bringing people together through freedom, affection, and music that transcends borders.
Bravat is a powerful example of consistency and reinvention. An artist who transforms personal experience into collective strength, and who continues to inspire, uplift, and pave the way for a new generation of queer talent in the global electronic scene.
Follow DJ Bravat on social media:
Instagram: @bravatdj
YouTube: DJ Rodolfo Bravat
SoundCloud: BRAVAT