Victor Varela, under his moniker Dandy Lisbon, not only stands as a paragon of modern dandyism but also significantly impacts the music scene in Portugal as a distinguished deejay, particularly within the Amapiano genre. His foray into Amapiano—a blend of deep house, jazz, and lounge music originating from South Africa—has been pivotal in introducing and popularizing this genre within the diverse musical landscape of Portugal.

As a deejay, Dandy Lisbon brings a unique flair to the Amapiano scene, weaving together the genre’s signature rhythmic beats with elements of traditional Portuguese music, thus creating a unique sound that resonates well with the local audience. His ability to blend different musical traditions showcases not only his versatility as an artist but also his deep understanding of the cultural dynamics that influence music consumption in Portugal.

Dandy Lisbon’s performances are more than just musical sets; they are cultural events that bring together people from various backgrounds, celebrating the universal language of music. Through his work, he has played a crucial role in fostering a community of Amapiano enthusiasts in Portugal, contributing to the genre’s growth beyond its South African roots. His influence extends from underground clubs to mainstream music festivals, where he showcases the infectious energy and soulful melodies of Amapiano to a broader audience.

Moreover, his impact as a deejay is amplified by his social media presence and collaborations with other artists, both within and outside the Amapiano genre. By leveraging his platform, Dandy Lisbon has been instrumental in creating a buzz around Amapiano, engaging with fans, and facilitating cross-cultural musical connections. His contributions have not only enriched the Portuguese music scene but have also positioned Portugal as a key player in the global spread and evolution of Amapiano.

LISTEN/STREAM (below)

(Listen on other platforms here) https://orcd.co/chipi

CONVERSATION

LISORO: Your journey from an aspiring footballer to becoming a recognized cultural icon in Lisbon is both unique and inspiring. Can you share with us the pivotal moments that led you from the football field to the forefront of fashion and music? How have the disciplines and teamwork learned in football influenced your approach in your current roles?

VICTOR VARELA: If at 15 someone had told me that today I would be where I am, I would have said it was a joke. It’s part of me to want to evolve, to want more, and when I feel that I can be happier doing something else in another area, even if it’s not my comfort zone, I take a risk and go for it. And that’s what happened with football, I was undoubtedly a promising athlete, but something told me I could be more and better. Today, football is not in my day-to-day as a professional in the field, but it continues to be present in everything I do, through the teachings, the values, and the incredible people I met.

LISORO: You are recognized as one of the most stylish men in the Portugal, your sense of fashion has undoubtedly set trends. Can you guide us through your personal style evolution? How do your choices reflect not just personal taste but also your vision for blending traditional elements with contemporary fashion?

VICTOR VARELA: First of all, thank you for the compliment; it’s good to know that our evolution influences other people. My trends are evolutionary; they don’t precisely define eras or cultures. I study and naturally do my research, but then I adapt everything within my context, never forgetting my culture and my purpose. The blend of traditional elements with contemporary fashion is undoubtedly a unique way to express style, combining the past with the present, and even with the future, because fashion is also very much about finding in the present what will be the future, and projecting it. This blend results in sophisticated and innovative looks, reflecting a creative and individualized approach to fashion.”

LISORO: Your friendship with Cristiano Ronaldo has intrigued many. Can you shed light on how this relationship has influenced your career paths and perspectives, especially in the realms of fashion, professionalism, and personal branding?

VICTOR VARELA: Interacting with someone recognized as the best in the world naturally draws attention and curiosity, which is a testament to human nature’s complexity. My connection with Cristiano Ronaldo, facilitated by a close mutual friend, was an honor I embraced wholeheartedly. Beyond the allure of his status, it’s Cristiano’s dedication, discipline, and approach to his brand that have deeply inspired me. This association has been a significant milestone in my journey, enriching my perspectives on professionalism and personal branding. It encouraged me to blend my passions for fashion and music more seamlessly, affirming that authenticity and excellence in one’s craft can resonate across different domains, much like Cristiano’s influence transcends the world of sports.

LISORO: Behind the Scenes as a Stylist: “Before taking the helm at the DSQUARED2 store in Lisbon, you worked extensively as a stylist. What insights and experiences from those stylist days shaped your approach to fashion retail and management? Additionally, how do you leverage these experiences to enhance customer engagement and store identity?”

VICTOR VARELA: I was the top seller at the Diesel store for two consecutive years, worldwide, in Lisbon. At the Dsquared2 store, I was a collaborator, before leaving to lead the DropList store, also in Lisbon. In the latter, I managed to reconcile all my work with fashion and music; it was a store with a layout and products that reflected the brand, the products followed current trends and offered an attractive shopping experience, which led to success. To increase customer engagement, it was important to create a unique shopping experience, and at DropList, this was possible. Regarding the store’s identity, it reflected the brand’s value, as well as its decor, values, and target audience. But as my life’s perspective is EVOLUTION, I am currently dedicated to my brand “BUMBO COUTURE,” a brand evolving day by day and across borders, and to music where I learn every day and build the best of Amapiano to offer to all those who follow my work and for those who may join this family of “Amapianistas.”

LISORO: Having successfully navigated multiple arenas – from sports to fashion, and beyond – what future projects or ambitions excite you the most? How do you plan to further leverage your diverse background to make a lasting impact both in Portugal and on the international stage?”

VICTOR VARELA: My life has been a true learning experience so far, and I think that, deep down, that’s the purpose of our existence, to learn. In everything I do, I incorporate my knowledge, whether it’s in fashion, music, or football, it’s difficult to separate one from the other. I can get fashion jobs through music, jobs in music through football, and in fashion through both. Currently, my know-how is due to these three contexts, and it’s this conjunction that leads me into the future to do more and better, always.