The Sounds of Cindel: Popular DJ spins Pride in Chicago, around the world

DJ Cindel is spinning his Pride celebration in three countries over a two-week span this month, with stops in Mexico, Toronto, New York City (for World Pride) and of course in his hometown, Chicago, with gigs locally on both June 29 and June 30.

"I am blessed to have enough work and to continue doing what I love," said Cindel, who was born and raised in Puerto Rico. "Every year just gets better and I am proud of everything I have accomplished thus far."

He also is spinning at Pride events this month in Boston and Atlanta, and July brings him to Fire Island and Colombia, and then he's off to Greece in August, Ireland in September.

"I feel so lucky to every year be included and considered to be a part of Pride events all over the world," Cindel said. "Spinning during Pride month is extremely special and meaningful to me because it is such a celebration of who we are. As a member of the LGBT community, being able to bring fun, laughter and joy through my music during this time of year is definitely something I do not take for granted and value very much."

Cindel has six residencies annually that include Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles, Boston, Atlanta and Toronto.

He will be at Hydrate on June 22, then part of Chicago Pride Fest the next day.

"Nothing makes me happier than to be able to spin in my home (city)," Cindel said. "The love I get from Chicago is definitely overwhelming. I look forward to letting my hair loose and celebrating Pride with everyone.

"Chicago (has seen) me grow (as a DJ). I started as a DJ at (the now-closed) Spin Nightclub and never in a million years did I think I would be traveling the world as a full-time DJ, making people happy. Chicago definitely holds a very special place in my heart, as it (is the city that) gave me my first opportunity.

On Saturday, June 22, Hydrate is hosting the XLSIOR Mykonos pre-party with the Chicago debut of Spain DJ Thomas Solvert. Cindel is doing the opening set.

On Sunday, June 23, Cindel will be spinning outside at Pride Fest, "which I am super excited about because those are really fun to play."

Pride Fest, he added, is one where attendees "gather to have a good time with friends while enjoying good music."

Cindel will be jet-setting the last weekend of June. He is spinning alongside DJ Nina Flowers at Meat XXL in New York, then jumping on a flight to Chicago for parties on June 29 and June 30.

"It's exciting to be a part of New York City Pride this year because it is celebrating World Pride and the 50-year anniversary of Stonewall," Cindel said. "They are expecting (more than) 6 million people (to attend World Pride) that weekend and there are tons of different events to attend and celebrate."

He is making his debut at Spybar on June 29, opening for DJ Victor Calderone.

"I have wanted to grace the Spybar booth for a very long time and I just cannot wait to be able to do so during Pride weekend," Cindel said.

Does the spinning at high-profile events lead to stress?

Yes, always, he said. Stress is inevitable, he added.

"I always want to give my very best, and the day I don't get nervous before an event, it may be the day I should retire," said Cindel, who helps eliminate stress by meditating.

"To see people smile and dance to your music is rewarding in so many ways. I feel beyond accomplished when I hear people say they love my music and what I do and thank me for it."

Top 5 Parties That DJ Cindel Has Worked At:

Winter Party, Miami.

XLSIOR, Mykonos.

Circuit Festival Barcelona

Atlantis Mediterranean Cruise

Market Days, Chicago

In The DJ Booth ... With Cindel

On Fans Clacking Their Fans: "I am all for it, as long as you are cracking that fan on beat. (There's) nothing worse than out of beat fan clacks."

Quenching His DJ Thirst: "I end to just drink water and Red Bulls."

When Flying, Aisle or Window Seat: Window – "I love resting my head against the window wall and sleeping."

Musician or musical act that you will NEVER remix: "I never say never."

Musician or musical act that you ALWAYS remix: Celine Dion

Song that you remixed in a set that attendees really liked: Running from Beyoncé.

One concert that you'd like to attend: "I would have loved to have seen Michael Jackson live."

Celebrity you'd like to meet: "A million times, Celine Dion."

Little-known fact: "I used to be a dancer."

Boxers or briefs: "I cannot stand boxers. Who wants their junk all loose?! I love it nice and tight, so I go for briefs ... they also accentuate better."

Photos by Brad French Photography - check out his Facebook