A Conversation With Eduardo Martins

How did music first become a part of your life?

“I never imagined I’d become a DJ. Before COVID, my friend Shay started DJing, and seeing him do it made me curious. I decided to give it a try and took some classes at ProDJSchool in Lisbon. It all started like that.”

How did you discover climbing?

“My best friend, Nicolas, had been trying to get me into climbing for years, but I always said no. When I finally gave it a try, it only took me two sessions to buy my own climbing shoes. I knew right away I’d found something I really enjoyed, and I still love the challenge and the constant progression.”

What role does climbing play in your life today?

“Climbing is my balance. It gives me both a physical and mental challenge, and it’s where I can disconnect from my night and travelling life. I train twice a week, I’ve built great friendships through it, and it’s become a big part of my lifestyle.”

What draws you to climbing compared to other sports?

“Climbing feels more like solving a puzzle than working out. I love that there’s no rush—you take your time, read the boulder, and work through it.

I also love the community. At 9.8 Gravity, everyone is supportive. People share beta, encourage each other, and over time it really starts to feel like home.”

What’s something climbing has given you that you didn’t expect?

“Climbing has given me much more than I expected. It brought me even closer to my best friend, helped me build a healthy routine, and introduced me to people I can genuinely call friends today.

It also changed my mindset. At first, I was quite negative about my climbing, but over time I learned to be more patient with myself and enjoy the process instead of focusing only on the result.”

At first glance, DJing and climbing seem very different. Do you see any similarities between the two?

“As a DJ, you’re constantly reading the crowd, and in climbing you’re reading the wall and adapting your approach. They also both teach patience—you don’t improve overnight. Both have strong and different communities.”

How has Lisbon influenced the way you see music, creativity and community?

“Living in Lisbon has definitely changed my perspective. Compared to Paris, people here aren’t always in a rush—they take the time to enjoy the moment and appreciate the little things. That mindset has influenced me a lot. I’ve learned to slow down, enjoy the process, and find a better balance between work, music, climbing and everyday life.”

What does an ideal day look like for you?

“I’m a person of routine, so my ideal day is actually pretty similar to my everyday life: training, climbing, cooking, and spending some time by the beach.”

What are you listening to right now?

“My playlist is all over the place. I listen to everything from Brazilian funk and French rap to slower, more emotional songs. It really depends on my mood.”

What inspires you outside of music and climbing?

“I find inspiration in everyday moments. A good conversation, a day at the beach, or discovering a new place can completely change my mood and give me fresh ideas.”

What’s next?

“I have a few exciting gigs coming up, including playing at some of the clubs where I used to party when I was younger, which feels like a full-circle moment.

In September, I’m also heading on an Asia tour. I can’t say too much yet, but I’m really looking forward to sharing more soon.”