Hydro Manila’s Hype Squad: The Launchpad for Today’s Biggest Artists

Hydro Manila’s Hype Squad: A Launchpad for Success

Featured image by Sai Zacarias

From Hype Squad to Headliners

Many of Manila’s top DJs started their careers in Hydro Manila’s Hype Squad. This article features exclusive interviews with 13 former squad members, detailing their paths to success in the music industry.

As we look ahead to the Hydro Manila Music Festival on August 26, 2023, at the SM MOA Concert Grounds (where we’re a proud media partner!), we’re highlighting the Hype Squad’s significant role.

The Hype Squad: More Than Just Water

The music industry is competitive, making it challenging for new artists to gain traction. Hydro Manila’s Hype Squad has offered a unique platform for years, providing a springboard for countless talents. Initially, Hype Squad members were primarily known for their high-energy crowd interaction—splashing festival-goers with water using various methods. However, their contributions extend far beyond that.

Many Hype Squad alumni have achieved significant success. For instance, Razikyle, a former Hype Squad member, now tours as a DJ for renowned hip-hop artists. Singer-songwriter Jazz Ocean also honed her skills within the Hype Squad before releasing her debut album.

Spotlight on Success: Interviews with Hype Squad Alumni

We interviewed 13 former Hype Squad members: Razikyle Enciso, Jade Gultiano, DJ Waffster, Harvey Ruiz, Ella Garcia, Margaux Luella, Vernard Tan, Brent Reyez, Jade Dee, Alwyn Cruz, MC Blaize, MC DM, and Jazz Ocean. We asked two key questions:

• How did your time with the Hydro Music Festival Hype Squad help you in your artistic journey?
• Can you share the story of how you started your artistic career?

Their responses revealed the importance of passion, dedication, perseverance, and surrounding oneself with the right mentors.

Razikyle Enciso: From School DJ to URBN Resident

My journey started in high school. I later joined Hydro Manila Drizzle, and Tito Nick, an owner of the Hydro Manila Music Festival, saw my potential and helped me develop my skills. I became the first DJ Scholar of Hydro Manila. This eventually led to my current role as a resident DJ at URBN QC.

My advice to aspiring artists: Don’t give up, work hard, and always think positive!

Razikyle‘s story is a testament to hard work and seizing opportunities. Even with his success at URBN QC, he continues to strive for greater achievements.

Jade Gultiano: From YouTube Tutorials to the Festival Stage

Being in the Hype Squad helped me meet other DJs and industry professionals. The high-energy environment of the Hype Squad translated well into my DJ performances. I learned about audience engagement and creating memorable experiences.

My passion for DJing started in 2013 when I saw DJ Ace Ramos perform. I learned from YouTube tutorials and mentors like Basstard and Earl Austin from Bleep, and through Project Collab Manila (PCM).

Jade Gultiano demonstrates the power of determination and mentorship. His journey showcases the importance of both formal and informal learning.

Ella Garcia: From Festival-Goer to DJ

Before joining the Hype Squad, I’d never been to a music festival. I instantly fell in love with it and was inspired to become a DJ. I’m grateful for the support from Tito Nick, Razikyle, Harvey Ruiz, Vernard Tan, and many others.

Ella‘s experience highlights the transformative power of new experiences and the importance of support from peers and mentors.

Margaux Luella: From Pageants to the DJ Booth

Joining the Hype Squad at 18 introduced me to many people who became friends and family. My experience in pageants gave me a foundation for performing, and I learned from mentors like Razikyle Enciso and Harvey Ruiz. MC DM (Dan Manalastas) also guided me greatly.

Margaux’s story showcases how mentorship and seizing opportunities propelled her from pageants to a successful DJ career.

Vernard Tan: From Music Lover to Festival DJ

Being part of the Hype Squad taught me about connecting with crowds. I’ve always loved music and played instruments, but seeing Avicii perform in 2013 solidified my goal to become a DJ. MC DM (Dan Manalastas) and Nick Hernandez were instrumental in my success.

Vernard Tan’s journey illustrates the significance of pursuing passions and connecting with like-minded individuals to achieve goals.

Jade Dee: From Promoter to DJ

I started as a club and festival promoter. Observing DJs like DJ Travis Monsod inspired me to pursue DJing myself. He later became my mentor.

Jade Dee’s story highlights how inspiration can lead to surprising career changes. Her experience shows how passion can lead to exciting opportunities.

Alwyn Cruz: From Influencer to Multi-Talented Artist

I started as an influencer for Hydro Manila. I always dreamed of performing on a big stage as a musician. Nick Hernandez saw my potential, and I’ve since worked with other artists and established myself within Hydro Manila.

Alwyn Cruz’s journey emphasizes the importance of perseverance and seizing opportunities to achieve ambitious goals.

DJ Waffster: From College Ambassador to Producer

I was a college ambassador for a Hydro event, then Tito Nick Hernandez invited me to join the Hype Squad. This helped me discover my love for music and led me to enroll at BPM (Beat Project Manila) under Sir Travis Monsod. I now work with MIDAS Records and DJ for various artists.

The DJ Waffster’s journey illustrates the importance of saying yes to new opportunities and embracing personal growth.

Harvey Ruiz: From Bedroom DJ to Festival Opening Act

Being part of Hydro Manila’s Hype Squad helped me develop my skills as a DJ and understand crowd interaction. I started as a bedroom DJ and through a friend’s help got my first gigs. Nick Hernandez saw my potential and invited me to play an opening set at Hydro.

Harvey Ruiz’s story exemplifies the transformative potential of perseverance and the importance of networking within the industry.

MC DM: From Beer Pong to Festival MC

I was a beer pong player before discovering the world of music festivals. In 2015, Nick Hernandez invited me to a Hydro event, and my life changed. I became a Hype Squad captain and later transitioned into MCing.

MC DM’s experience demonstrates the power of pursuing new passions and taking advantage of unexpected opportunities.

Jazz Ocean: From Shy Teen to Singer-Songwriter

Hydro Manila became my family. It gave me unforgettable experiences and helped me develop my confidence as a performer. My partner/mentor OG Makk helped me launch my music career, and we created Woo Recordz.

Jazz Ocean’s journey emphasizes the value of support and mentorship in achieving artistic goals.

MC Blaize: From Partygoer to Emcee

The Hype Squad built my confidence. I started MCing in 2018 after a friend encouraged me. I’m grateful to the Hydro Manila family and NoEgoPh for their support.

MC Blaize’s story demonstrates the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities and the value of supportive communities.

Brent Reyez: From Hype Squad to DJ

Hydro Manila is where artists and friends unite. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this community and for the support of MC DM, DJ Vernard Tan, and many others. I learned to love myself and my art.

Brent Reyez’s perspective underscores the significance of community and collaboration in the music industry.

Hydro Manila 2023: Tickets and Information

Tickets for Hydro Manila 2023 are available at the Hydro Manila Website, SM Tickets Online, and all SM Tickets Outlets nationwide. Tickets are PHP 1,200 (general admission) and PHP 2,000 (VIP) until August 25. Door charges are PHP 1,500 and PHP 2,500 respectively.

For updates, visit the Hydro Manila Facebook Page.

Read also: How to Build a Successful DJ Brand from Scratch?