Emerging from the underground club scene of Madrid, Javier des León has quickly become a name to watch. He’s more than just an artist; he’s an enigma. With a foot in the worlds of fashion, music, OnlyFans, and performance art, Des León has carved out a unique niche for himself. From his early, gritty techno experiments to his latest forays into hyperpop, he’s consistently pushed boundaries and defied categorization. From the dark, brooding soundscapes of ‘On Red’ to the more experimental pop of ‘Trade This,’ he’s proven his versatility. His latest single, ‘DUDE,’ promises to be another sonic journey, blending elements of techno, hip-hop, and hyperpop.
We sat down with Javier to discuss the inspiration behind his new single, his artistic journey, and his collaborations:
How has your sound evolved from your earlier works like “On Red” to your latest single, “DUDE”? What were the specific inspirations that led to this new sonic direction?
My sound has evolved and shaped over time. I’ve always been drawn to electronic and experimental styles. ”On Red” had a grittier, raw techno feel, linked with Hard Dance-Tech. With my latest singles, “Trade This” and “DUDE,” I’ve shifted towards a blend of hyperpop, Hip-Hop, and more experimental influences.
I was inspired by a desire to explore fresher, more contemporary sounds that feel exciting and relevant to where I am right now creatively.
You’ve worked closely with Ser on both “Trade This” and “DUDE.” Can you tell us more about your creative partnership and how your individual styles complement each other?
Ser ($€₹) and I have been collaborating for a few years now. He’s incredibly young but has such a unique taste, especially in experimental pop, which really drew me in. For me, chemistry with collaborators is everything. We complement each other because while he leans into experimental pop, I bring a more progressive approach to our projects. Together, we find a balance that pushes both of us creatively.
What personal experiences or themes did you draw upon when creating “DUDE”? How does it fit into the broader narrative of your artistic journey?
“DUDE” came from a place of wanting to explore themes of sex addiction and the endless search for immediate gratification as a way to escape reality. Dude, the character, is this idealized figure—someone unattainable, seductive, and both loved and hated. He sparks something inside you, transforming you before you even realize it. It ties into the darker, more introspective themes I’ve been drawn to throughout my artistic journey, where I often delve into intense emotions and experiences.
Who are some of the artists or musicians who have had the biggest impact on your work? How have they influenced your sound and style?
Artists like Arca, Charli XCX, Crystal Castles, Sophie, and Von Bikrav have all played a major role in shaping my sound. Their willingness to break boundaries and experiment with genre has been hugely inspiring for me. They’ve shown me how to push the limits of what’s possible while staying authentic to myself and my artistic vision.
Your music often delves into the darker and more experimental side of techno and electronic music. What draws you to this genre, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?
I’m drawn to darker, more experimental sounds because they align with how I process emotions and life experiences. Early on, I connected with genres like witch house, though it’s less prominent now. My contribution to this space is bringing my own voice and perspective, shaping the genre by adding what’s unique to me—whether that’s my sound, themes, or the way I blend different influences.
You’re a musician, a visual artist, and a model. How do you manage to balance these different aspects of your career?
It can get chaotic, but I’ve learned to thrive in that kind of environment. I’ve become so used to operating at full speed that when things slow down, I feel like something’s missing. Juggling all these aspects of my career is challenging, but it’s also what drives my creativity and pushes me forward—it’s the fuel for everything I create.
What are your goals for the future? Are there any specific projects or collaborations you’re excited about?
The future feels uncertain, which is something many in my generation can relate to. I focus on living fully in the present, embracing each moment as it comes. That doesn’t mean I’m disorganized or lack ambition—on the contrary, I’m a perfectionist in all my work. As for the future, I believe it’s shaped by what we create and leave behind. While I don’t have specific long-term plans, I’m always excited about potential projects and collaborations that align with my artistic vision. The future, for me, is about embracing whatever comes next.
Watch the video for “DUDE” below:
