ONE-ON-ONE WITH LEO LEONSKI, WHO MAKES TROPICAL BEATS FOR ALL.
Tulum has become an iconic destination on the international DJ circuit, attracting some of the world’s finest musicians to perform on its breathtaking beachfront and amidst its lush jungle backdrop. This charming beach town has even given birth to a distinct style of music. When you hear the term “Tuluminati” or “Tulum-style music,” it immediately conjures up images of beats echoing through the sandy expanse of the Mexican Caribbean.
Leo Leonski is an iconic figure in Tulum’s music scene, having lived here and played at just about every venue. He is often associated with this style by aficionados from New York and Mexico City (where he is a frequent guest DJ). The Tulum darling carries with him a tropical essence that transcends borders, making every corner of the world feel like a beachside paradise. It’s no wonder that he eventually founded “Salon Tropical,” his very own caravan of jungle beats.
Immediately, “Salon Tropical” became one of the circled, red dates across music fiends in town, often drawing the locals who simply get it! Dressed in a loose Disco-style top, Leo Leonski, a genuine soul from Basel, has the biggest smile when he steps behind his DJ console, surrounded by fresh fruit, glitter, and disco balls. An overall retro feel exudes from everything he does, yet in a shyly contemporary chic way. His music feels like something one is already familiar with, yet it’s refreshing and made for the exact moment.
Leonski has become a defining presence of the Tulum scene, even after his move to Mexico City. Today, he is continuously on tour across Latin America, the USA, and Europe. His beats dominate the high season in Tulum from December through March and then migrate to Ibiza and Europe for the summer months. In between, he leaves his mark on New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles. Despite his international acclaim, Leonski remains the approachable, affable Tulum Pueblo local, radiating friendly vibes and laidback energy.
As Tulum gears up for another exciting season, we caught up with Leo to get a glimpse of what’s in store.

Tell us a bit about your background in music and your DJ career.
Born and raised in Switzerland, I moved to Berlin at 20 and discovered the vibrant nightlife. It was there that I first delved into DJing and electronic music, which was a defining time for me and continues to influence my sets.
Eventually, I relocated to Mexico and spent many years in Tulum. My base is now in Mexico City, which facilitates my frequent travels for work across Latin America, Europe, and the US.
How do you define your style?
My style is eclectic. It spans from disco and Afro vibes suitable for a tropical setting to deeper, heavier beats for European underground clubs. Ultimately, my goal is to tune into the venue’s vibe, engage the crowd, and ensure we all have a good time together on the dance floor.

What was the inspiration behind Salon Tropical?
Salon Tropical began in Tulum two years ago as a grassroots event for locals and friends, featuring handmade shirts and a distinct tropical flair. As Tulum’s parties became increasingly expensive, I was motivated to offer something different and accessible. The concept quickly took off, bringing our community together for memorable nights.
We’ve mainly hosted the event in Tulum, but we’ve also brought it to Guatemala City, and this summer, we’re excited to introduce Salon Tropical to New York at the Public Rooftop.
Your label is called Night Heat Records. What are your independent releases?
I founded Night Heat Records over a year ago, inspired by a summer night’s neon glow in New York City. The label serves as a platform to release my music in an industry that’s increasingly difficult to navigate for emerging artists. I’m proud to say the effort has paid off, with our tracks now featured on official playlists on Spotify and Beatport. I release new songs and EPs every two to three months, which I incorporate into my sets when the mood is right.
What are you listening to?
Mexico City is defined by sunny days and late-afternoon showers. Here are my top 5 tracks for a classic Mexico City day:
- Hector Lavoe – “El Dia De Mi Suerte”
- Abel Lima – “Stebo Cu Anabela”
- Desmond Dekker – “Israelites”
And for nighttime cruising, both soft and powerful:
- Movement – “Like Lust”
- Leo Leonski – “Oh Chuva” (which, ironically, means “hello rain”)