Nothing Lost, Nothing Wasted: A Sit Down with Chesster

Victor Cester, better known as Chesster, has quietly built a career that spans continents and dance floors without relying on flash or gimmicks. Born and raised in Venice, Italy, his early exposure to electronic music in the 2000s shaped a path that would eventually take him to London, where a move in his early twenties unlocked new opportunities to perform and produce. Those years in the UK allowed him to sharpen his sound—one rooted in house but touched by disco, hip hop, and UK garage influences.

Now based in Los Angeles, Chesster tours consistently across Europe and the U.S., performing at top venues while maintaining a steady output of productions. His work has landed on respected labels like PIV, Factory 93, Dansu Discs, and Range. In 2025, he launched his own imprint, Blink, with the goal of putting out thoughtful, high-quality house music.

In this interview, Chesster opens up about early setbacks, personal routines, and studio habits, offering a closer look at the personality behind the decks. From his go-to pre-show snack (pizza) to the record that never leaves his USB (Cleptomaniacs’ “All I Do”), Chesster proves to be as grounded as he is experienced.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

Many people don’t know I’m Italian – born and raised. And for some reason, when they find out, they’re always surprised!

If you weren’t a DJ/Producer, what would you be?

God knows…

What’s the most memorable moment of your career?

I have a lot of great memories, but here’s a fun one: my first ever performance – I was 13, playing at a school party – and the power went out seconds after hitting play. I immediately knew that this music thing was gonna be no joke hahahah.

Who’s an artist that inspires you right now?

I’m lucky to have an incredibly talented group of artist friends. Working with them is my main source of inspiration.

What’s a track you play when you want to get the crowd hyped?

Grant Nelson – Rush

What’s your go-to snack or drink before a show?

Pizza.

What’s your favorite city to play in, and why?

Anywhere in the U.S. – people are very passionate and always bring amazing energy! Other than that I love London and Amsterdam as well!

How would you describe your sound in three words?

Fun / authentic / positive.

What’s one non-music-related thing that makes you happy?

My cat, Crazy.

What’s a track that always brings you back to your roots?

The System – You’re In My System (Jerome Sydenham & Kerri Chandler’s Atmospheric Vocal Mix)

If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?

Quincy Jones.

What’s your favorite non-music-related hobby?

Hanging out with friends.

If you could time travel to any era of music history, when would it be and why?

I’d probably go back to the ‘80s or ‘90s to experience the overall culture, the birth of genres like house and hip hop, and re-live life before the internet.

What’s a record that never leaves your crate or USB?

Cleptomaniacs ft. Bryan Chambers – All I Do

If you weren’t touring or in the studio, where would we find you?

At the beach!

What’s a fun fact or hidden talent that has nothing to do with music?

Before music, drawing was my thing – I was pretty good at it!

What’s a memory you never want to let go of?

My childhood.

When do you feel at most peace?

When I’m home, ready to start a session.

What are some things you forget but feel better when you are reminded about?

Kindness.

What’s something normal to you that other people find weird?

Probably my job hahaha.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say?

“Well done for never giving up.”

As someone who deals with technology and computers to write music, has there been a gut-wrenching story where you lost your music or the track/beats you were working on?

I’m very organized – I’ve never lost anything! Another thing that I can compliment myself for!

What makes you cringe when you listen to your early material?

The complete lack of structure or sense hahahah.

What do you find yourself obsessing about most in the studio? From every perspective of creating a track.

I don’t really get obsessed over anything in particular these days, but the mix of a song is something I tend to spend quite some time on!

What is your favorite set time and duration?

I enjoy the journey – warm-ups, peak time, and even the magic of a proper closing set. Each moment hits differently. Two to three hours is ideal! Possibly during a summer open air?