Vintage Culture (real name — Lukas Ruiz Hespanhol) is a Brazilian DJ, producer, and remixer, and one of the leading figures in today’s electronic music scene. His work spans deep house, tech house, and progressive house. With a unique style that blends nostalgic melodies and modern sound design, he has earned worldwide recognition.
Early Life
Lukas Ruiz was born on July 7, 1993, in Maraça (Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil). From a young age, he showed a strong interest in music, inspired by 1980s rock, 1990s pop culture, and the rising electronic music scene. As a teenager, he began experimenting with recording software and creating early remixes on his home computer.
Choosing the stage name Vintage Culture, Lukas wanted to emphasize the idea of synthesis — blending the spirit of past eras with modern technology, emotional depth, and dancefloor energy.
Career Beginnings
He first gained attention with viral remixes of iconic tracks: “Blue Monday” by New Order and “Another Brick in the Wall” by Pink Floyd. These works spread quickly online, attracting the attention of producers and laying the groundwork for his future success.
In 2015, Vintage Culture released his breakout track “Hollywood”, which solidified his presence on Brazil’s EDM scene. Follow-up releases like “Pour Over”, “Cante Por Nós”, and his remix of “Drinkee” for Sofi Tukker opened the door to an international audience.
Global Success
By the mid-2010s, Vintage Culture had become one of the leading representatives of Brazil’s new generation of producers. His performances at major festivals such as Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, Lollapalooza, and Electric Zoo, along with shows in Ibiza and Las Vegas, made him a global brand.
Collaborations with artists like Alok, MEDUZA, Tiësto, Sonny Fodera, and James Hype expanded his audience and showcased his production versatility. Every release merges his signature melodic sensibility with undeniable dancefloor energy.
Key Releases
- “Hollywood” (2015) — his first national hit that brought widespread recognition.
- “Drinkee” (Sofi Tukker Remix, 2016) — an international success and Beatport chart favorite.
- “It Is What It Is” (2020) — a platinum-certified single that topped global charts.
- “Nightjar” (feat. Sonny Fodera, 2022) — a festival anthem.
- “Free” (with MEDUZA, 2022) — an emotional progressive house hit.
- “Come Come” (feat. MELO.KIDS, 2023) — blending vocal lyricism with Brazilian bass energy.
- “Nothing Ever Changes” (2024) — a track with philosophical undertones and a powerful vocal hook.
Style and Sound
Vintage Culture’s music is defined by melodic deep house infused with elements of progressive and tech house. He places strong emphasis on atmosphere, vocals, and emotional resonance. His tracks balance danceability with introspection, making them staples at both major festivals and intimate club sets.
Drawing inspiration from 1980s rock and synth-pop (Depeche Mode, The Cure) as well as modern EDM trends, Vintage Culture has created a distinct musical language where the past meets the future.
Achievements
- DJ Mag Top 100 DJs: #19 (2020), #8 (2022), #7 (2023), #6 (2024), #11 (2025)
- Multiple #1 placements in the Beatport Top 10 House chart
- Performances at the world’s biggest festivals and club arenas
- Billions of streams on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube
- Official remixes for Calvin Harris, David Guetta, and Shouse
Personal Life and Social Impact
Lukas Ruiz divides his time between São Paulo and Miami, actively supporting philanthropic and environmental causes. He participates in projects that promote music education in Brazil and advocates for sustainable tourism and eco-consciousness among young people.
Interesting Facts
- His first remix was made on an old laptop without professional gear.
- As a child, he played guitar and drew inspiration from British post-punk.
- His DJ sets often include unexpected mashups and classic rock inserts.
- In 2023, he launched his own radio show, “Vintage Culture Sessions”, broadcast in over 20 countries.
Influence and Legacy
Vintage Culture has become a symbol of Brazil’s new electronic wave, blending local identity with global sound. He has inspired a generation of South American producers, proving that Brazilian house music can conquer global charts and festival stages.
Conclusion
Vintage Culture is an artist for whom music is a bridge between past and future. His journey exemplifies how passion, dedication, and authenticity can transform a local DJ into an international star. Today, he continues to create tracks that unite millions and remains one of the leading voices in global house music.
