Today we’d like to introduce you to Jose A Garcia Montero.
Hi Jose A, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Music has always been part of my life, but becoming JOC HAVANA was really about starting from zero and building everything step by step. I’ve spent years developing my sound, mixing Tech House, Afro House, and Latin influences inspired by my roots, with a strong influence from African rhythms and Yoruba culture and spirituality.
Before fully focusing on electronic music, I studied music in Italy, where I learned to play the bassoon. That experience helped me understand music in a much deeper way — from composition and harmony to rhythm and musical emotion — and it still influences how I produce and build my sound today.
In the beginning, it was all about passion — playing small events, learning production, creating visuals, and constantly pushing myself to improve. There were many moments where things felt uncertain, but I kept going because music became more than just a career for me, it became my identity.
My artistic vision is deeply connected to percussion, rhythm, and cultural fusion. I always try to create music that feels organic, emotional, and powerful, while bringing together electronic music with deeper ancestral influences. Over time, I’ve had opportunities to perform in different venues and festivals, connect with people from different cultures, and continue growing as an artist.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding internationally, releasing new music, and creating visual projects that tell real stories and emotions behind the music. My goal has always been to create experiences that people can truly feel and remember.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been building everything independently and staying consistent even during uncertain moments. As an independent artist, you have to balance creativity with the business side of music, while also continuing to evolve and stay authentic to yourself.
Another challenge has been creating a unique sound without following trends too closely. I’ve always wanted my music to reflect deeper cultural influences, especially African rhythms and Yoruba-inspired elements, while still connecting with modern electronic music. Sometimes that path can feel less commercial or more difficult, but I believe authenticity is what creates lasting impact.
There were also moments of self-doubt, financial pressure, and the challenge of growing from the ground up in such a competitive industry. But every obstacle helped me grow, become more disciplined, and understand my vision more clearly.
I think the biggest lesson has been learning how to trust the process, stay patient, and continue creating even when things don’t happen overnight.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a DJ and music producer focused on blending Tech House, Afro House, and Latin influences into a sound inspired by African percussion, Yoruba culture, and organic rhythms.
Beyond performing and producing music, I also enjoy creating visual concepts and storytelling around my projects to make every release feel like a complete experience.
One thing I’m most proud of is building my career independently while staying authentic to my artistic vision. What sets me apart is the fusion of electronic music with deeper ancestral and cultural influences that create both emotional and energetic connections with people.
How do you think about luck?
I believe luck can open certain doors, but consistency and hard work are what keep you moving forward. In music, there are moments where being in the right place at the right time can help, but I think preparation and persistence matter even more.
There have been both good and difficult moments throughout my journey, especially when it comes to the business side of the industry. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is how important relationships and networking are. Connecting with people, building genuine relationships, and putting yourself out there are some of the first real steps for any artist to grow.
In the beginning, sometimes it’s not even about the money — it’s about reaching more people, gaining experience, and creating opportunities. Even if you play for free at times, the important thing is building your name, your audience, and your connections. The financial side comes later when the work, consistency, and visibility start growing naturally.
For me, growth comes from staying dedicated to your vision and continuing to evolve, regardless of obstacles or timing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jochavana.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joc.havana
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jochavana
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JOCHavana
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/jochavana
