Héctor Couto Drops “Hot Stuff EP” on Legendary Label Cécille Records

Spanish house veteran Héctor Couto returns with his new “Hot Stuff EP” on Mannheim-based label Cécille Records – one of the defining imprints of the European house scene, founded by Nick Curly and Marc Scholl. The EP showcases Couto at his best: groovy club tracks with depth and character. A standout moment is his collaboration with Chilean artist Alejandro Paz, whose iconic vocal is brought back to life in a fresh, high-energy interpretation. With over two decades in the game, Héctor once again proves why he remains one of the key voices in international club culture.

Héctor, great to have you with us – and congrats on your new EP on Cécille Records! How did the collaboration with Cécille come about, and what does this EP mean to you personally?
Thanks! Releasing music on Cécille has always been one of my goals as an artist – it’s a label I’ve admired and respected for a long time. I’m really grateful to Nick and Marc for the opportunity. Honestly, it all came together super naturally. I sent them a few tracks, they liked them, and we decided to wrap it up with the new version of “El House.”

The track “El House” with Alejandro Paz – whose vocal has been considered an anthem of the electronic music scene in Latin America and Spanish-speaking regions for over a decade – now appears in a completely new context in your version. How did that vocal fit so seamlessly into your new production?
It actually started out as just an edit I was playing during my sets, and the crowd response was always amazing. I had sent it to Nick so he could play it, and he really liked it. He suggested talking to Alejandro Paz to make it official – and here we are… dancing to “El House” again! I was super inspired by the vibe of the original and just gave it a more modern twist while keeping that 90s house energy. I really love how it turned out – it’s a great way to introduce such an iconic track to a whole new generation.

On your EP, you’ve got three more great tracks: Cami’s House, Hot Stuff, and Red Velvet. Which one feels the most like “you” – and where did the ideas come from?
All three tracks have strong funk, soul, and jazz influences. I love playing around with sounds that aren’t typically used in electronic music – finding cool hooks and letting that inspiration take me somewhere new. I’d say all the tracks represent me and reflect a sound that I really connect with.

How do you balance spontaneity and structure in the studio?
I’m great at coming up with ideas, but honestly, the part I struggle with most is building the structure so it doesn’t get repetitive when you listen to it. The key for me is listening to a ton of music, breaking it down, and experimenting in your own sessions to figure out what works best.

How do you see the current development of the electronic music scene?
We’re living through one of the biggest generational shifts in decades, and you can really see it in how younger audiences are discovering and consuming electronic music for the first time. I think it’s a great opportunity for new artists to make a name for themselves – and for those of us who’ve been around a while, it’s about embracing the new without losing our essence.

How would you describe your sound, both as a DJ and producer?
House, groove, and a little bit of everything that inspires me and makes me wanna dance.

Can you share a recent moment – on stage or in the studio – where you felt totally in your element?
A few weeks ago, I played an “All Night Long” set at Papagayo, a beach club in Tenerife. Since I’m from Tenerife, it was super special – I was surrounded by friends and people I really care about. When all those elements come together in one place, doing what you love with your favorite people… that’s magic.

Which upcoming event are you most excited about?
I’ve got a tour coming up in Latin America at the end of May, and I’m really looking forward to it – especially playing in Santiago (Chile). I can’t wait to see the crowd’s reaction when I drop “El House” there.

What kind of music do you like to listen to in your free time?
I listen to all sorts of stuff – but mainly funk, soul, some jazz, old-school Latin music, electronic, and more chilled-out ambient tunes, especially in the mornings.

What does a perfect day off look like for you?
Good company, beach, sunshine, a barbecue and a few beers – honestly, that’s all I need.

What’s one of your all-time favorite releases?
I’d say Hot Stuff without a doubt. It really captures my influences as an artist and reflects my whole journey after so many years of dedicating myself heart and soul to music.

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