Eli Iwasa

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Eliana Sumiko Iwasa

Years active

2001

Genres

techno, house, electro, indie dance, disco, synth-pop, post-punk

Instruments

vocal, dj

Biography

Eli Iwasa is a central figure in the Brazilian electronic music scene, working as a DJ, producer, vocalist, record label owner, and club proprietor. Her decades-long career has been fundamental in shaping the country's underground scene. Born and raised in São Paulo, her path in music began with an obsessive record collection in her teens, spanning from post-punk and synthpop to hardcore. Nights out at clubs like Massivo, Ursa Maior, and the iconic Hell's Club were formative, with strong influences from DJs like Mau Mau and exposure to legends such as Jeff Mills and Daft Punk.

Over more than two decades, Eli has not only stood out as a music selector, but also as a scene builder. She is the co-owner of clubs Caos and Club 88, curator of events like Closer (focused on gender equity), and a resident at Warung Beach Club. Her work extended to Galeria 1212 in Campinas, transforming the city into an electronic music hub. Through her record label Heels of Love, she supports Brazilian artists without stylistic restrictions, reflecting her broad musical perspective. Her influence is felt at festivals like Time Warp, DGTL, Rock in Rio, and at internationally renowned clubs.

Deeply inspired by strong women like Patti Smith and PJ Harvey, and with the support of a matriarchal family of Japanese origin, Eli Iwasa advocates for inclusion and representation in nightlife. Her ongoing work aims to boost marginalized voices and promote structural changes in the creative industries. With a trajectory spanning production, promotion, club management, and curation, her commitment to sound, community, and artistic integrity remains unchanged.