Carlos Eduardo Martinez (born December 5, 1978), better known by his stage name Patafunk or Pata, is a Venezuelan DJ, producer, and musician with over 20 years of experience. He brings many musical styles and impressive technical skills to his DJ sets, having performed at numerous venues thanks to his eclectic taste.

Early Career (1997-2002):

In 1997, Patafunk entered a recording studio for the first time, contributing to the Latin Ska song "No Es Mi Guerra" on the Venezuela Ska Vol. 1 compilation. He recorded additional tracks for compilations and performed as the opening act for prominent Latin American bands in Maracaibo City. In 2000, Patafunk began his DJ career as a guest selector for DJ Juan Badell, playing a diverse mix of Ska, Reggae, Swing, Lounge, Rock, and other genres. Inspired by House Music during a stay in San Francisco (2002), Patafunk transitioned into the genre and secured his first residency at Fuse in North Beach.

Patafunk Events and Radio Shows (2003-2014):

Upon returning to Venezuela (2003), Patafunk collaborated with other DJs and artists to create "Patafunk" events, combining House Music, art, and fashion. These events had a significant impact on Maracaibo's music and art scene. He launched his first radio show, "Patafunk Radio," followed by "El Disco Es Cultura" on La Mega de Maracaibo. In 2007, his nationally syndicated show "Patafunk Radio" began airing on La Mega Estacion, continuing until 2014.

Musical Success and New York City (2008-2020):

Between 2008 and 2011, Patafunk released two critically acclaimed albums, "Dubdelic" and "Playa," featuring a blend of Latin, Pop, and Disco-Funk influences. His songs topped Venezuelan charts and received praise from Rolling Stone, Billboard Magazine, and MTV Latin America for their unique and pleasant sound.

He became a household name in Venezuela, touring nationwide and hosting his radio show on contemporary music. In 2010, Patafunk relocated to New York City, further establishing himself as a prolific DJ and producer. He released original singles and remixes for artists like The Knocks, Goldroom, Phoenix, and others.

As a DJ, Patafunk played regularly throughout NYC at renowned venues like Hotel Hugo, Ophelia, Buddakan, Le Bain, Soho House, Zuma and many more. His music also graced international festivals like SXSW, Tribeca Film Festival, CMJ, and Miami Art Basel.

Recent Work and Miami (2020-Present):

Patafunk's third album, "High Life!" (2020), fused his Latin-reggae roots with New York's multicultural influences. It featured over 25 musicians and spawned six music videos, with the song "Solo" reaching the Venezuelan charts. This album was released in partnership with Greenpoint Records

In 2020, he moved to La Jolla, California, to focus on music near the West Coast. This period has resulted in his fourth album, "El Baile de la Extinción" (2024), featuring a tropical Afro-Caribbean folk sound and more mature lyrics.

Patafunk relocated to Miami Beach and became a DJ who lives and plays in the Floridian city of Miami Beach and has collaborated with Venezuelan artist Edo Ilustrado and appeared on shows like "George Harris and "Entregrados"

He also initiated the music series "Patavision," currently in progress with over 98 singles released by Oct 2024. Patafunk uses Patavision as his main studio project but is currently producing other artists, while keeping his DJ life playing in awesome venues in Miami like Mila Lounge, Dante's HiFi, Juvia, Mad Radio, Miami Sound Bar, and the Piel de Oro Tan Parties among others