Johnny Esco: "I always try to incorporate my roots to my production"

Born and raised in California with Mexican and Salvadoran roots, Johnny Esco started producing beats at 18. Since then, he has collaborated with artists such as Gonzy, Cris MJ, MNZR, and Nublu, as well as producers like Alex LeMirage, Jhay Rivas, and Sebastian from 1Mind. Known for his signature blend of trap and reggaeton, he later expanded into house music, encouraged by Alex LeMirage and Jhay Rivas, and has since gained support from DJs such as Fideles, Sparrow, Wakyin, and many others.

Your new track "888" with KIDFLO marks another evolution in your sound—how did this collaboration come about, and what does this project represent for you?

It was honestly pretty easy when it came to collabing with KIDFLO. I started sending out the original version that I made via Trackstack to multiple DJ’s to see the type of feedback I would receive. It was a mixed response and I actually didn’t send the track to KIDFLO’s inbox until a week later. Not even 2 days after sending it to him, KIDFLO reached out to me through Instagram to let me know that 888 is a hit and if he could hop on it and add some elements and rearrange the track. Without hesitation, I sent him the STEMs and from there, we have the final version of the track that’s making waves around the Afro House scene.

This track means a lot to me as it's a project that I believe has helped shape my sound and has kept me motivated to keep going and pursue a goal that I knew I could accomplish. Of course, I’m still growing and learning everyday and surrounding myself with like minded individuals.

You started in trap and reggaeton before moving into the House scene—what was the turning point that pushed you in that new musical direction?

I give a lot of credit to Alex LeMirage and Jhay Rivas, two amazing talents making noise in the Dance music scene. At first I was a little hesitant to make the transition as I felt I could get a major placement in the Latin industry. It wasn’t until 2023, that I saw how that industry moved and treated up and coming producers that I felt like it was time to move into the House music scene. It took time to find my sound but I ended up falling in love with Afro House and I thank Alex and Jhay for being my biggest influence.

Do your Mexican and Salvadoran roots still influence your production style, even as you explore House music?

Without a doubt, I always try to incorporate my roots to my production. It’s something that I always hold dearly. Even when I have moments where I’m stuck, I always listen to the music that I grew up around to help feel inspired. It brings me joy and reminds me of my childhood days, from the times my mom played them while cleaning the house on the weekends.

You’ve worked with a wide range of artists and producers—what do you look for in a collaboration to know it will truly work?

I’m a very simple person, if it feels authentic, that’s when the best results come. I learned that forcing things doesn’t feel right and it’s ok to accept that. It’s still something that I’m learning from to this day.

After receiving support from major DJs and releasing on Tortuga, what are your next goals, and where do you see your sound heading in the coming months?

My next goals are to get a track signed to Magnifik and to start getting some gigs. I have a lot of tracks, some solo and with friends, in which I’m experimenting  in both Melodic House and Indie Dance. This is only the beginning and I can’t wait to share more in the future. Thank you for having me!

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