Meet Felva, The Producer behind the hit song “Somos Panas” by Yailin La Mas Viral & Randy
Meet the producer powering the sound of the year with relentless dedication and undeniable talent, Felva is fast becoming one of the most influential producers in the game. His breakout hit “Somos Panas” with Yailin La Más Viral and Randy cements his place as a visionary, blending high-energy Latin, Caribbean, and urban rhythms into global anthems. From Miami to the world, Felva’s sound is magnetic, genre-defying, and impossible to ignore. We sat down with him to discuss his journey over the years and everything in between.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
What are your passions and what drives your dedication to your craft?
My real name is Felipe Vargas, and Felva is just a short form of that. I’m a DJ, producer, recording artist, and songwriter—but at my core, I’m a DJ and producer. I live and hold DJ residencies in Miami and also travel across the U.S. and internationally to perform. I love what I do, and I put my heart into every project. I’m also a family man—I deeply love and respect my grandma, my mom, and my entire family. Their support means everything to me. I create with emotion, and I like to think of myself as an artist who leads with heart.
Why did you change your artist name from FuegoBeatz to Felva, and how has that impacted your brand?
I went by FuegoBeatz for about eight years, mostly making electronic music and having a good run, but I wanted a name that felt unique—something original that no one else had. When I searched “Felva” online and found zero results, I knew it was the one. Switching to Felva around 2019/2020 gave me clarity and direction for my brand. FuegoBeatz was a little too generic and already linked to another artist. Felva feels like me—and it’s helped build a distinct, recognizable identity.
What’s the story behind your nickname Felvy Presley?
That one came up in the studio with my friend Ecko from Argentina. After a session, he joked and called me “Felvy Prely,” kind of playing off my vibe—like a rock star with charisma. From there, the nickname “Felvy Presley” stuck. It’s just a fun, inside thing among my friends—a playful alter ego.
Walk us through the creative process behind “Somos Panas”.
It was a journey. The original version of the song that I produced had a sample we thought was cleared, but at the last minute, it didn’t go through. We had to rebuild the track quickly and deliver the final version literally the day before release. I worked diligently with my friend & co-producer, JS Beatz, for about 24-48 to make It happen. Fortunately, everything came together. I felt that God really helped us work a true miracle with this record. Although chaotic, the official version made it out and I’m super proud of the fact that we were able to deliver under such high a high-pressure situation.
How did that experience test your skills as a producer?
It pushed me to the limit. When you’re under that kind of pressure, every decision counts. It made me appreciate the challenges because those are the moments you grow from the most. With that being said, I probably wouldn’t go the sampling route again. It’s beautiful creatively, but business-wise, it’s complicated. I’d prefer to build something completely original next time. For example, last year in 2024 I produced what became a #1 song on reggae iTunes charts called “WYFT” with Ding Dong, Busta Rhymes, and Popeye Caution. Our song was at the very top alongside legend Bob Marley for about a month! That’s huge motivation to know I’m measuring up next to the greats!
How has your Latin heritage and Miami upbringing shaped your sound?
Miami is a cultural melting pot—it gave me exposure to everything from Shakira to Selena, reggaeton to salsa as well as Hip Hop & Electronic Music. My dad is Colombian, so I grew up listening to salsa romántica and artists like Eddie Santiago. On top of that, Miami’s Caribbean influence—Reggae, Dancehall, Soca—became part of my DNA. That fusion defines my sound today.
How do Dancehall and Caribbean music play into your music career?
I produce a lot of dancehall and Caribbean music and have had real success collaborating with artists like Ding Dong who is from Kingston, Jamaica and is considered a Dancehall heavyweight, one of the greatest to ever do it. Reggaeton itself was born out of reggae, so blending those styles feels natural to me. It’s rare to see a Latin producer operate authentically in both worlds, and I take pride in being that bridge.
What sets your music style apart from the rest?
It’s the way I blend Latin, reggaeton, and dancehall seamlessly with a dash of Hip-Hop and Electronic to give you a true big room club sound. I’ve carved out a space where I can work with both top-tier Latin and Caribbean artists, and the music still feels cohesive. That crossover sound is my signature sound.
What inspired you to become a music producer?
It all started with a viral video of Ryan Leslie from back in the day making a beat from scratch in a New York studio. That video hit me hard—I must’ve watched it a hundred times in school and college. His creativity, precision, and passion made me want to be that guy in the studio. He reminded me of what Bruno Mars became—versatile, musical, business- savvy. That’s the kind of energy I aspire to.
How did you transition into music full-time from playing professional basketball?
Basketball was my first love. I played 4 year NCAA in New York at Manhattanville University and went on to 3 seasons professionally FIBA in Ecuador and Bolivia, but injuries made it tough to sustain. Around age 27, I made the switch to music full-time. Both sports and music taught me discipline, and I’ve been lucky to support myself through both. Music gave me a new path.
What does teamwork look like behind a song like “Somos Panas”?
It’s just like a basketball team. I might be the producer, but we had a very talented songwriters from Puerto Rico by the names of Paulino Rey and Karz, artists like Randy and Yailin, engineers, and more all contributing. Everyone played their role. I see myself as the captain, but none of it happens without the team. That’s how I approach every project— collaborative and respectful of every part of the process.
How do you stay grounded in the highs and lows of your journey?
The past year was a rollercoaster—months of delays and no contact during the “Somos Panas” rollout. I learned you can’t get too high on the highs or too low on the lows. You have to trust your gut and keep creating regardless of what’s happening. When the song finally dropped, it felt like a miracle. I’m thankful to God, my team, and years of hard work that prepared me to excel in months like this. Working with legends like Randy reminds me I’m on the right path.
With your passion for cooking, what would you make to impress someone special?
I cook in a very criollo style—nothing fancy, just full of flavor. I’d make “un sudado”—a kind of meat stew with rice, potatoes, carrots, onions, and tomatoes. It’s a recipe passed down from my grandma and dad. It’s comfort food, and it tells a story of where I come from.
How would you describe your style in three words and who influences you musically?
Versatile, club-oriented, and high-quality. My music is made for dancing and high energy. I’m detail-oriented in the studio—I take my time. I’ve had solid mentors on the way who have influenced my sound, JS and IZY Beats among some of those, plus legends like MannyFresh, Pharell Williams, Scott Storch, Calvin Harris, and Skrillex. I’ve studied them for years. They shaped my approach.
What advice do you have for aspiring producers?
Keep God first—pray and have faith. Music requires blind belief because success isn’t always immediate or financial. Use every tool you can—YouTube, ChatGPT, online courses. Build relationships, stay consistent, and never stop learning. The key is humility, discipline, and loving the process.
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Writer: Frida Garcia D’Adda (@fridadda_)
Photographer: JP Vision
