Mochakk, also known as Pedro Maia, is a rising star from Brazil and the newest addition to the constellation of artists featured in SoundCloud’s Ascending series — our global initiative designed to spotlight emerging talents from every corner of the world through billboards, social media content and playlists, as well as provide a closer look at the artists’ stories and the music that defines them.
Growing up in Sorocaba, a city in the heart of Brazil, Mochakk — whose name blends “Chaac,” the Mayan god of rain with his favorite caffeinated beverage, a mochaccino — was immersed in a rich tapestry of sounds from an early age. His parents’ eclectic taste in music — spanning genres such as disco, jazz, blues, rock, and traditional Brazilian rhythms — laid the foundation for his varied musical palette, and it was this early exposure to a wide array of influences that fueled his insatiable curiosity, driving him to explore everything within reach.
As Mochakk’s passion for music deepened, it wasn’t long before he felt the pull toward creating his own soundscapes. What began as a hobby quickly evolved into a serious pursuit, leading him to experiment with music production. Armed with a basic setup and an unyielding drive to create, Mochakk started crafting his own tracks and remixes, blending the sounds of his childhood with modern house beats.
Through SoundCloud, Mochakk began sharing his work with a wider audience, finding a community that resonated with his ever-growing style. Reflecting on those early days, he says:
"I think it [SoundCloud] feels a bit like a family, especially in those beginning years — it was super important for me to meet my first friends through SoundCloud."
As his music started gaining traction, Mochakk’s unique blend caught the attention of listeners far beyond his hometown. His ability to weave together diverse genres into a crisp, energetic sound has set him apart in the dance music scene, and in 2023, Mochakk’s career soared to new heights, with productions including the hit single “Jealous” and remixes for Groove Armada and Diplo.
These works showcase his broad sonic identity and rare ability as a producer to imbue tracks with a fiery sense of rhythmic urgency that bubbles beneath a cool, sexy surface.
Calling upon his Dogghauz label partners, Jay Mariani and Cesar Nardini, to collaborate on his latest track released in August — a remix of the iconic Kings Of Tomorrow song “Finally,” featuring vocals by Julie McKnight — Mochakk has played a key role in Defected Records’ 25th anniversary celebrations. The remix is part of a special series of collaborative releases that honor the label’s milestone by blending its rich history with emerging talent, showcasing a vibrant fusion of past influences and future luminaries. Remixing a track as iconic as Kings Of Tomorrow’s “Finally” is no small feat, especially when the original is often described as perfect. Yet, Mochakk has managed to elevate the classic with a fresh perspective. The remix respects the song’s timeless essence while infusing it with new energy, showcasing his skill in amplifying an already-perfect piece without overshadowing its original brilliance.
Listen to “Finally,” and discover other exciting artists via our Ascending: Rising US Artists playlist.
LISTEN TO “FINALLY” ON SOUNDCLOUD NOW
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