La Santa:

La Santa is one of the brightest and most distinctive names on today’s electronic music scene. Her sets captivate, and her tracks transport listeners into a world of energy, rhythm, and deep musical journeys. Behind the pseudonym is artist Sandra, whose rich musical background and emotionally charged approach to creativity make her stand out. In this interview, La Santa shares her musical roots, sources of inspiration, creative process, views on the industry, and her dream to one day perform in Uzbekistan.

For those who may not know, how did La Santa begin? What’s the story behind the name?

I’ve grown up in a family where music has been our day-to-day, like food. Especially my mom has had a big influence on me regarding music. She will take me and my brother to classical music recitals, play all sorts of genres, and wake us up with classical music on the weekends…Then I was introduced to electronic music when I was 12-13 years old, and I would spend hours in record stores wherever I travelled, and my mom was patiently waiting for me. In Spain, we didn’t have that selection of music and cities like London or Paris, where a big influence on me regarding electronic music. 

The name unifies parts of my name & last name & the spiritual part of me.

How would you describe the sound and spirit of La Santa?

I always say: My music is energy. I like to play different genres from Deep House to Afro Latin Tech to Latin House. My only premise is high doses of groove, energy, and creating a unique, special journey, connection with my audience/public/dancers.

What inspires your music, whether sonically, visually, or culturally? 

All, from scents, food, to traveling, to different cultures, sounds, to the music I’ve been listening to since I was a kid.

There’s a strong identity in your visuals and beats – how important is aesthetic in your overall creative process?

Very, I try to “pack” a strong sense of belonging, a strong & special message where all your senses are awakened.  

What genres or artists have influenced your sound the most? 

From the classical music I listened to when I was a kid, passing through the world music, the 80’s, and especially jazz music & soul/r&b music from the 80’s, 90’s.

Walk us through your process: how does a typical track come together in the studio? 

I like to have freedom when creating. I don’t like to limit myself in anything and especially with music. I will connect my energy to what I’ve been listening to in my car, for example, to my last trip to a different culture I have experienced, or the last good food or scent I’ve experienced. ALL the senses are important, so I try to connect with all and have all of these present. Then I will also light up an incense and meditate a bit. 

How do collaborations usually happen – are they organic, planned, or spontaneous?

Well, it depends, but usually they come from a burst, an idea, or when I feel connected to that particular artist or moment, and I go for it.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced breaking into the music scene? 

Probably being a woman. I know this is a stereotype, but sadly, it is still true, and I think it is important to speak about that and raise awareness. 

How do you navigate the balance between creative freedom and commercial success? 

I always have creative freedom on my mind, as I’ve said before. I like to feel free and not limit myself thinking I should do or have some sort of commercial success. The important thing for me is to create, and then if it’s a commercial success, even better. 

Is there a message or movement you’re trying to build through La Santa Music? 

Yes, definitely. Awaken to this world, to your own self, and be the best version of yourself.

What can fans expect from La Santa this year – any upcoming drops or events? 

Lots of new music is coming out. Just released my new compilation CINCO on Redolent with a very powerful message behind - Women Power, where my new track MAMBA is included. Also, lots of touring around the world as La Santa and with my brand Slave To The Rhythm, along with Chus. 

What’s always playing in your headphones lately? 

Sade and mantras 

How do you see the Uzbek electronic music industry? Do you plan to perform here? 

I think is growing and I am so happy for this! Can’t wait to get to know your amazing country & culture! I would love to perform there, so please reach out to [email protected] to experience my full energy. I was contacted last December to play in Taschen for NYE, but I was already playing in Panama, Still, I’m looking forward to coming one day!