MANILA, Philippines - My most vivid memory of Judd Figuerres happened one Saturday night, in a bar on a dark and dingy side street in Cubao, known and loved by many as Today x Future. A small group of us had spontaneously decided to crash someone’s house at 3 a.m., where we ended up watching a series of short art films, trying to decode their meanings until the sun started to peek, and we were forced to call it a night (or morning). In between our Soju Yakults, Judd would whip out his laptop and bust a music playlist that made the moment even more surreal. When he’s not doing work as a filmmaker, shooting beautiful and ethereal videos for fashion names and brands, you will most likely find him spinning at Today x Future. We are pleased that Judd, a.k.a. DJ Sweetheart, graced our #YSProm with his super cool gung-ho sounds.
YOUNG STAR: What are you listening to right now?
JUDD FIGUERRES: Listening to this new artist my boyfriend introduced me to — La Femme.
Why “DJ Sweetheart”?
I chose Sweetheart cause it sounds so harmless. Rik Rasos (of Proudrace) was the first person to call me “Sweetheart” and I really liked it!
How did you come up with your playlist for the #YSProm?
My inspiration was my friend CJ Cruz! We like to dance à la Rihanna, thus my playlist was very Barbados.
What do you usually wear to sleep?
A comfy pair of shorts.
Do you have any sleeping rituals?
Yes. Something has to be playing on the TV or my laptop so I can fall asleep. My favorite sleeping show is Family Guy.
What is your most vivid memory of your prom in high school?
Dancing to Passenger Seat by Stephen Speaks. LOL.
How did you get into DJing?
It started as a hobby. I would spin for my friends’ little college parties and then one day Gabby Cantero and Austin Castañeda decided to book me and my friend to spin at Today x Future. I think that was the start of everything.
What is your latest source of inspiration?
This short film titled Fiorucci Made Me Hardcore. Everyone should watch it! It’s on YouTube.
What do you suggest people listen to during this rainy season?
Morning: Songs About Jane by Maroon 5
Afternoon: CrazySexyCool by TLC
Night: LATENYC by Ta-Ku