Elevated Frequencies
Elevated Frequencies
Olivia Mancuso
The Rejected Track That Built Life And Death, ft. DJ Tennis | EF EP 153
32 minutes Posted May 28, 2026 at 12:00 pm.
Introduction
Surviving The Comments
Punk Roots And DIY
The Pisa Punk Scene
Every Job In Music
Italo Disco Origins
The Wedding DJ Craft
His House Music Wedding
The Transition Into DJing
First Recognition At 40
Becoming A Mature DJ
Why Not To Rush
Signing X And Ivy
What He Looks For
Fame Isn't Required
The Follower Count Myth
Why He Started Life And Death
The Record Everyone Rejected
Cooking To Survive
A Family That Cooks
Losing Hospitality
Food As Convivio
The Paris Pregame
Meals Make The Day
The Chicago Food List
Advice For Future Artists
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32:40
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Show notes

What does it really take to get signed to a respected electronic label? Hint: it has nothing to do with your follower count. Olivia Mancuso sits down with DJ Tennis, founder of Life and Death, who didn't earn his first real DJ recognition until he was 40.

He traces his path from Italy's punk and DIY scene into Italo disco, house, and techno, and explains why wedding DJ work is underrated training. He also shares the rejected record that went Beatport number one for a year, and what he actually signs artists for: character, hard work, and vision.

For any producer chasing a sustainable career, it's proof the slow burn wins.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Want personalized guidance on your music career? Book a one-on-one consultation with Olivia on GreenRoom where you can get tailored advice on branding, business strategy, and sustainable career growth.
๐Ÿ‘‰ Instagram: @oliviamancuso__
๐Ÿ‘‰ Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx