Liverpool-based DJ and producer Whatoo has developed a sound built around Latin-inspired percussion, groovy basslines, and influences drawn from different styles of electronic music.
Photo credit: Whatoo – Instagram
Since beginning his production career during the 2021 lockdown, he has continued to experiment with new sounds while developing a recognizable rhythmic identity.
His productions have received support from artists including Dennis Cruz, Marco Carola, Jamie Jones, Magi-K Luciano, Jaden Thompson, and Saraga.
With his track ‘If You Didn’t Know’, featured on the ‘Botaniq ADE 2026’ compilation, Whatoo continues exploring driving basslines, vocal hooks, and percussion-led arrangements.
Drawing from the records that have influenced his sound, Whatoo shares ten selections that reflect his approach to production and the dancefloor.
1. Whatoo – If You Didn’t Know (Original Mix)
“‘If You Didn’t Know’ has been such an important track for me and really embodies the sound I’m trying to deliver. This track offers a driving baseline with a catchy vocal hook that runs throughout the track. The arrangement of this track is built around building tension for the 2nd drop, where the vocal hook releases all the tension just before the baseline kicks back in.”
2. The Martinez Brothers – Tree Town (Original Mix)
“This was a huge inspiration for my latest release. I took large inspiration from the bassline and drums to try and emulate that raw driving groove which this track does so well. This track has just got some serious attitude to it, and it’s why I love it!”
3. Saraga – Bang At Me
“This track was also a massive inspiration for me. The vocal in this track is so cool as it’s got that cold, moody feel to it whilst also having these funky elements which gel very well together; this track is such a bomb.”
4. Classmatic, AKO, Nyellav – Arrebatah
“This song for me is just perfect, and I could listen to it all day; the vocal grooves perfectly with the drums and it’s just a genuine banger people can effortlessly dance to. Top tier stuff!”
5. Hans Groover, Nico Loco – Ci Piace (Original Mix)
“I love this track! It’s a nice groove with a deeper feel to it. I’m really happy to be sharing a VA with this one and have enjoyed playing it.”
6. Cameron Jack – What’s Up? (Original Mix)
“When I first heard this track, I listened to it about 20 times; everything about it is so cool. One of my favourite things about it is the textural aspects; there’s so much good stuff happening in the background of this track whilst the rhythm keeps the track moving forward. This track’s perfect for me as I’m always looking for tracks with this type of darker vibe to it.”
7. Bonafique – Monologue (Extended Mix)
“This song has just got such a sick vibe to it I couldn’t leave it out. The baseline has got so much groove to it and works so well with the lighter percussive elements. This track has got so much personality to it and is really fun to play.”
8. Mendo – Parriba (Ssero Remix)
“Seriously good track! I really like using this track to ramp the energy up in a set. The Latin/tropical themes throughout this track create so much flavour. It’s a serious weapon of a track.”
9. Red Effects – Cherries (Original Mix)
“It’s a really nice roller that adds a lot of percussive energy. It keeps a nicely controlled rhythm that’s a perfect blend for the next record.”
10. Sterium, Marian (BR) – 2010 (Original Mix)
“‘2010’ is great for transitioning into a deeper mood; I always like using this to take the set into a different direction. Just a great track you have on your USB.”
‘Botaniq ADE 2026’ compilation is out now. Stream and download here.
Follow Whatoo: Spotify | SoundCloud | Instagram
