Once A DJ – Details, episodes & analysis

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

Kish's main insta: https://www.instagram.com/kishkash1/

Steezlords (music production): https://www.instagram.com/thesteezlords/

All City Radio Show: https://www.instagram.com/theallcityshow/

Kish Eats: https://www.instagram.com/kish.eats/

Soleful Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/soleful_podcast/

We took a trip down to London to spend some time with Kish Kash, talking Sneakers, Music, hard work and more, even taking in some recommended miso with the man himself.

The conversation explores the evolution of cultural influence, particularly in the context of hip hop and sneaker culture. The speakers discuss the term "influencer" and its loaded connotations, contrasting it with "cultural curator." We delve into the history of Aylesbury, highlighting its musical and cultural impact, including figures like Rob Stringer and Silver Bullet. The discussion touches on the influence of Malcolm McLaren and the crossover of music and fashion. The speakers also reflect on the importance of archiving and documenting cultural artifacts, emphasizing the need for future generations to understand the now.

• Influencer and Sneakerhead Terminology 0:00
• Cultural Curator and Influencer Perception 1:55
• Musical Roots and Cultural Impact of Aylesbury 4:44
• Early Hip Hop and Cultural Influences 10:16
• Tribalism and Music Preferences 17:19
• Sneaker Culture and Collecting 18:52
• Record Collecting and Cultural Documentation 20:55
• Radio and Media Experience 47:22
• Moving to London and Career Transitions 55:41

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

https://www.djrumor.com/

https://www.instagram.com/djrumor

http://facebook.com/djrumornyc

http://soundcloud.com/djrumor

DJ Rumor takes a trip to the Once A DJ studio to discuss a background and love for breaking, and at the same time, New Wave music, and shares his journey through DJing which lands us at his current main gig which is as musical curator and Knicks/Rangers Dj at Madison Square Gardens.

Rumor shares a load of insights into lessons he's learned and give some great advice across many areas of professional DJing, including how to DJ for sports, the importance of professional conduct and much more.

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

Guest links:

• Karen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misskarenp/
• Folded Wing website: https://www.foldedwing.co.uk/
• Folded Wing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foldedwinguk/
• The Jazz Show with Jamie Cullum: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00rr86v
• Round Midnight with Soweto Kinch: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001xmqv

Summary

Karen P discusses her background in music, from growing up in South End and discovering music through friends and radio, to working at Virgin Records and Radio 1. She shares her experiences working with Giles Peterson and the transition to DJing. Karen also talks about imposter syndrome and the supportive colleagues who helped her along the way. Karen P shares her journey as a DJ and how it led her to start her own company, Folded Wing. She discusses the importance of staying connected to music and the challenges of the podcasting industry. Karen also provides advice for those looking to get into radio and podcasting.

Takeaways

• Karen P's passion for music was nurtured through friends, radio, and working at a local theater in South End.
• Her time at Radio 1 provided valuable experience and opportunities to work with renowned DJs and producers.
• Working with Giles Peterson and Something Else Production allowed Karen to expand her musical knowledge and develop her DJing skills.
• Karen emphasizes the importance of using her platform in the music scene to elevate and support other artists. Starting small and taking opportunities can lead to big things in the DJing industry.
• Having an agent can help DJs get more gigs and travel the world.
• DJing can open doors to other opportunities, such as starting a company.
• Staying true to your passion and focusing on high-quality content can set your podcast apart in a crowded market.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:02 Background and Early Music Influences

03:22 Music Scene in South End and Indie Clubs

04:28 Moving to Leeds and Exploring the Music Scene

05:20 Crossover of Music Genres in Leeds

06:03 Transitioning to University and Working at Virgin Records

07:26 Working at Radio 1 and Transitioning to London

08:54 First Role as a Production Assistant at Radio 1

11:02 Working with Giles Peterson and Folded Wing

13:23 Imposter Syndrome and Supportive Colleagues

20:26 Getting into DJing and the Responsibility in the Music Scene

25:59 DJing and Playing for Big Crowds

26:26 Getting Started as a DJ

27:12 Working with an Agent

28:09 Traveling the World as a DJ

28:38 The Connection Between DJing and Starting a Company

30:12 Setting Up Folded Wing

31:45 Leaving Giles Peterson's Show

33:26 The Inception of Folded Wing

35:15 Staying Connected to Music

37:09 The Ups and Downs of Podcasting

38:13 The Challenge of Standing Out in a Crowded Podcast Market

42:29 Saying No to Projects That Don't Align with the Company's Vision

45:20 Staying Close to the Music

47:57 Upcoming Projects

49:49 Advice for Getting into Radio and Podcasting

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

In this conversation, House Shoes, a DJ and record label owner, discusses his journey in the music industry and the hip-hop scene in Detroit. He talks about setting goals and starting a podcast to reconnect with the culture. House Shoes shares his experiences growing up in Detroit and the influence of music in his life. He highlights the competitive nature of the hip-hop community and the importance of innocence in creativity. He also discusses the impact of Proof and the Detroit hip-hop community. The conversation concludes with House Shoes reflecting on the need to leave Detroit and start fresh in Los Angeles. In this part of the conversation, Shoes discusses feeling exhausted and overwhelmed in his career and the desire to help others. He talks about struggling to help himself and the challenges of putting others first. Shoes also shares his frustration with finding a manager and the difficulty of letting go. He discusses the lack of emotional and financial reward in his work and the search for originality in music. The impact of social media on judgment and the performative nature of grief are also explored. Shoes reflects on the challenges of stardom and mental health and the importance of empathy. He discusses the shift in community and social interaction and the sacrifices of staying true to oneself. The transition from Detroit to LA and the start of his record label are also discussed. Shoes shares his experiences with social anxiety and the importance of integrity and sacrifice. Finally, he talks about navigating the music scene in LA and the ownership and confidence of DJing. In this conversation, Shoes discusses the challenges of building a community around sobriety and finding like-minded individuals. He reflects on the nostalgia for the past and the belief that things were better in previous generations. Shoes shares his journey of starting Street Corner Music and the pride he feels for his accomplishments. He also talks about the financial realities of running a record label and the joy of holding a James Brown record with his name on it. Shoes discusses his transition to Twitch streaming and the challenges of making a living from it. He emphasizes the importance of kindness and transparency in building a supportive community. Finally, Shoes reflects on the decision to step back from beat battles and prioritize personal well-being.

Takeaways

• Feeling exhausted and overwhelmed can lead to a desire to help others, often at the expense of oneself.
• Putting others first can be rewarding but may result in a lack of emotional and financial reward.
• The search for originality in music can be challenging in a world where many artists imitate popular trends.
• Social media can be performative, and it's important to be mindful of the authenticity of online interactions.
• The impact of changing entertainment and technology on childhood can lead to a loss of community and social interaction.
• Staying true to oneself often requires sacrifice and can be challenging in a world that values conformity.
• Transitioning to a new city can present both opportunities and challenges in the music industry.
• Living with social anxiety can affect one's ability to navigate social situations, even in a career that involves public performance.
• Integrity and sacrifice are important values to maintain in the pursuit of one's passion.
• Navigating the music scene requires confidence, ownership, and a willingness to adapt to new environments. Building a community around sobriety can be challenging, but finding like-minded individuals is essential for support and growth.
• Nostalgia for the past is common, and it's important to acknowledge that things were different in previous generations.
• Running a record label involves both creative and grunt work, and it's important to find a balance between the two.
• Twitch streaming can provide an escape and a sense of community, but it's important to prioritize personal well-being and not get caught up in the financial aspects.
• Creating a supportive and kind community is crucial, and transparency is key in building trust and connection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

07:05 The Power of Beats in DJ Sets

16:26 The Challenges of Being a One-Man Show

37:24 The Impact of Grief and the Need for Empathy

45:04 The Impact of Adult-Oriented Content on Children

56:30 Creating a Record Label and Working on Projects of Pride

01:13:01 The Rise of Twitch Streaming and Its Challenges

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

ORDER NU-MARK'S NEW "AMU-NU" COOKBOOK: https://djnu-mark.shop/products/amu-nu-cookbook

DJ Nu-Mark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djnumark

DJ Nu-Mark on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djnumark/

DJ Nu-Mark Linktree: https://linktr.ee/djnumark

DJ Nu-Mark discusses his background, the influence of his mother, and the healing power of music. He shares his experiences growing up in Iran and the United States, as well as his love for Brazilian music. DJ Nu-Mark also talks about his early DJing days and the vibrant house parties he organized. The chapters cover themes of togetherness, cultural identity, and the impact of music on personal growth and healing. This part of the conversation covers DJ Nu-Mark's early DJing days, the importance of constant learning in music, the influence of community and togetherness, the significance of being in a crew, the role of confidence and comparison in performance, the formation of Jurassic 5, the decision to pursue independent releases, the contrast between confidence in abilities and confidence in the group, the success of 'Concrete Schoolyard', recognition in Europe before the US, and the importance of retaining publishing rights. In this conversation, DJ Nu-Mark discusses his surprising streaming success, his experiences digging for records in Europe, his influences from the East Coast, and the challenges of recording on an eight-track. He also talks about the importance of building a solo career and the decision to cut off outside production. He shares the journey of writing his book and the multi-purpose nature of the book. Finally, he reflects on his influence on DJing and production and the creation of Lesson Six.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

01:23 The Theme of Togetherness

03:16 The Scenic Route and Taking the Wrong Path

04:20 Persia and Iran

05:50 DJ Nu-Mark's Mother and Iranian Culture

08:06 DJ Nu-Mark's Mother's Independence

09:04 DJ Nu-Mark's Organized Record Collection

12:47 Dealing with Traumatic Experiences

15:06 The Healing Power of Music

17:45 DJ Nu-Mark's Drumming Background

18:18 House Parties and DJing

22:03 Charging at House Parties

24:18 Policing House Parties and Bunrush Productions

25:56 Early DJing Days

26:27 Constant Learning in Music

27:21 Influence of Community and Togetherness

28:13 The Importance of Being in a Crew

29:01 Confidence and Comparison

30:02 Collaborating with Other DJs

32:11 The Importance of Confidence in Performance

34:56 The Impact of Confidence on Stage Presence

36:09 The Formation of Jurassic 5

37:24 The Name Jurassic 5

38:48 The Decision to Pursue Independent Releases

40:10 Contrasting Confidence in Abilities and Confidence in the Group

44:22 The Success of 'Concrete Schoolyard'

47:02 Recognition in Europe before the US

48:35 Retaining Publishing Rights

49:33 Surprising Streaming Success

50:33 Digging in Europe

51:34 Influences from the East Coast

52:35 West Coast Influences

53:53 Recording on an Eight Track

54:41 Challenges in the Music Business

56:00 Working with Scott Storch

58:56 Finding Direction After J5

01:00:34 Building a Solo Career

01:03:12 Cutting Off Outside Production

01:04:49 The Journey to Writing a Book

01:07:53 The Multi-Purpose Book

01:11:41 Influence on DJing and Production

01:12:40 The Creation of Lesson Six

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

New Book "Write Lines" out now: https://velocitypress.uk/product/write-lines-book/

This week we sit with Andrew Emery to discuss his experiences as a journalist for Hip Hop Connection, founding Fat Lace magazine, and loads more from his past as an aspiring rapper (he's also done bits of DJing so we aren't cheating), and much more.

This book covers his time in publishing, and is his second memoir after "Wiggaz With Attitude: My Life As a Failed White Rapper" ( https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wiggaz-Attitude-Failed-White-Rapper/dp/1999760700 ). Both books are highly enjoyable and a fun look at different phases of life told through a lens of hip hop.

SHOW NOTES

Summary

In this conversation, Andrew Emery discusses his passion for music and his career journey from being a rapper to a journalist. He shares his early experiences with hip hop in Nottingham and Leeds, including the vibrant hip hop scene in Nottingham and the influence of Rock City tapes and Arcade Records. Andrew also talks about his transition to writing and his work at Paul Raymond. The conversation concludes with a discussion about his early recognition of Eminem's talent. In this conversation, Adam Gow discusses various topics related to hip-hop, including the disappointment of artists who didn't live up to expectations, the short-lived hype around Dr. Dre's album 'Compton', and the changing landscape of music consumption. He also talks about the influence of regional hip-hop scenes, the mixed reception of shiny suit rap, and the fun and freedom of working on 'Fat Lace' magazine. Adam shares his experiences and challenges in writing and publishing books, as well as his thoughts on the ethics and boundaries of writing about controversial topics. He also mentions his journey of self-publishing 'Wiggers' and the potential TV show based on the book. Lastly, he reveals his ideal dinner guests: Chuck D, Charles Dickens, and Woody Allen.

Takeaways

• Andrew Emery's passion for music has shaped his career journey, from being a rapper to a journalist.
• The hip hop scene in Nottingham and Leeds played a significant role in Andrew's early experiences and love for the genre.
• Andrew's transition to writing allowed him to explore his passion for music in a different way and make a mark in hip hop journalism.
• His work at Paul Raymond provided unique insights into the world of adult publishing and the evolution of lads' magazines. Artists often face high expectations and may not live up to the initial hype surrounding their talent.
• The reception of an album can be short-lived, with initial excitement fading quickly.
• The way people consume music has changed significantly, with streaming platforms offering a vast array of options.
• Regional hip-hop scenes have had a significant impact on the genre, with different styles and sounds emerging from various locations.
• The shiny suit era of rap had a mixed reception, with some appreciating the more commercial sound and others criticizing it.
• Working on 'Fat Lace' magazine provided a fun and creative outlet for Adam and his colleagues, allowing them to celebrate hip-hop culture and poke fun at its more serious aspects.
• Writing and publishing books can be challenging, with the need to navigate the industry and find the right audience.
• There are ethical considerations when writing about controversial topics, and it's important to approach them with sensitivity and respect.
• Self-publishing can be a rewarding experience, allowing authors to have creative control and reach a niche audience.
• The potential TV show based on 'Wiggers' could have been a compelling exploration of hip-hop culture and personal journeys.
• Adam's ideal dinner guests would be Chuck D, Charles Dickens, and Woody Allen, representing different eras and perspectives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:02 Passion for Music and Career Reinvention

03:03 Early Era in Nottingham and Leeds

04:00 Discovery of Hip Hop

05:24 Influence of Hip Hop in School

06:46 Vibrant Hip Hop Scene in Nottingham

07:43 Rock City Tapes and Arcade Records

09:09 Transition to Leeds and Establishing Tribe

09:39 Journey to Get Signed as a Rapper

12:06 Formation of Crew and Demos

15:31 Transition to Writing and Career in Journalism

25:34 Work at Paul Raymond

28:00 Interviewing Eminem

29:21 Early Recognition of Eminem's Talent

30:19 The Disappointment of Artists Who Didn't Live Up to Expectations

33:11 The Short-Lived Hype Around Dr. Dre's Album 'Compton'

35:09 The Changing Landscape of Music Consumption

37:01 The Influence of Regional Hip-Hop Scenes

38:00 The Mixed Reception of Shiny Suit Rap

41:21 The Fun and Freedom of Working on 'Fat Lace' Magazine

44:43 The Challenges of Writing and Publishing Books

46:38 The Ethics and Boundaries of Writing About Controversial Topics

50:01 The Journey of Self-Publishing 'Wiggaz'

52:00 The Potential TV Show Based on 'Wiggers'

55:50 Andrew's Ideal Dinner Guests: Chuck D, Charles Dickens, and Woody Allen

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

Barry Beats Instagram (via Si Spex): https://www.instagram.com/sispex/

Barry Beats Bandcamp (via Si Spex): https://barrybeatsakasispex.bandcamp.com/

Barry Beats YouTube (Via Si Spex): https://www.youtube.com/@Sispex

Once A DJ links: https://linktree.com/onceadj

Summary

In this conversation, Barry Beats discusses his journey into beat making, his experience creating a live cut and paste mix, and his latest project, the Ultimate Fakes compilations. He emphasizes the importance of finding your own sound and enjoying the process of music making. Barry also shares advice for DJs who want to start making their own beats and discusses his YouTube channel and upcoming Patreon plans.

Takeaways

• Find your own sound and enjoy the process of music making.
• Experiment with different techniques and technologies to create unique beats.
• Take inspiration from your favorite producers and study their processes.
• Consider limitations as a creative tool and embrace the power of simplicity.
• Support independent artists and explore sample packs and compilations.
• Join online communities and platforms like YouTube and Patreon to connect with fellow musicians and share your work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:50 Getting Started in Beat Making

09:06 Creating a Live Cut and Paste Mix

15:06 Planning and Recording the Mix

24:52 Ultimate Fakes Compilations

31:51 Advice for DJs Starting to Make Beats

39:16 Barry Beats' YouTube Channel and Patreon

44:07 Conclusion

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

This week we get into it with Si Spex of UKHH pioneers The Creators, about growing up in Cornwall and getting into hip hop, early DJing experiences, college and university, meeting Julian and Johnny F, and exposure to library music. Si Spex discusses his journey in music production and DJing, including his time with High Wicking, equipment acquisition, DJing in High Wycombe and London, working with MCM and The Rats, signing with Blindside Records and releasing the Master Plan EP, signing with Wall of Sound and collaborating with American artists, and the mix with Plus One and DJing. In this conversation, Si Spex discusses his transition to the internet age, selling records in America, his day job and DJing, adapting to commercial DJing, enjoyment and feedback in DJing, balancing DJing and a day job, working at a music distribution company, recreating the sound of old records, motivation and belief in his musical potential, advancements in music technology, and investing time and efficiency.

Takeaways

Growing up in Cornwall presented challenges in getting into hip hop, but the passion remained strong.

Early DJing experiences helped shape the DJ's skills and confidence.

College and university provided opportunities to study graphic design and illustration.

Meeting Julian and Johnny F led to a deep friendship and shared love for music.

Exposure to library music opened up new possibilities for sampling and production. Si Spex started his music production journey with High Wicking and acquired equipment such as samplers and sequencers.

He DJed in High Wycombe and London, including at The Attic, and formed connections with local music people.

Si Spex and Julian formed The Rats and released a few 12-inch records.

They signed with Blindside Records and released the Master Plan EP, which received positive reception.

Si Spex and Julian signed with Wall of Sound and collaborated with American artists, expanding their reach.

Si Spex continued DJing during this time, playing at various venues and events. The internet revolutionized the music industry, making it easier to communicate and sell records.

Si Spex transitioned from selling records in America to working a day job and DJing.

He adapted to commercial DJing and focused on playing music that pleased the crowd.

Si Spex enjoys DJing and values feedback from the audience.

He balances his DJing career with his day job at a music distribution company.

Si Spex is passionate about recreating the sound of old records and using advancements in music technology.

He stays motivated by believing in his musical potential and investing his time efficiently.

Chapters

04:33

Growing Up in Cornwall and Getting into Hip Hop

08:04

Early DJing Experiences

21:22

College and University

29:59

Meeting Julian and Johnny F

36:38

Exposure to Library Music

40:34

Formation of High Wicking and Equipment Acquisition

48:32

DJing in High Wycombe and London

52:23

Working with MCM and The Rats

56:45

Signing with Blindside Records and Releasing the Master Plan EP

01:05:09

Signing with Wall of Sound and Collaborating with American Artists

01:14:37

The Mix with Plus One and DJing

01:19:59

Transition to the Internet Age

01:20:52

Selling Records in America

01:21:36

Transition to Day Job and DJing

01:24:17

Adapting to Commercial DJing

01:26:34

Enjoyment and Feedback in DJing

01:29:37

Balancing DJing and Day Job

01:30:42

Working at a Music Distribution Company

01:34:17

Recreating the Sound of Old Records

01:37:42

Motivation and Belief in Musical Potential

01:41:31

Advancements in Music Technology

01:43:19

Investing Time and Efficiency

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

This week we sit with Kiss FM hip hop/R&B legend DJ & remixer (and now  @lovethingldn  podcaster) Swerve to look at both the many opportunities that his DJ career has brought him, and the people who have helped and supported him along the way.

Summary

In this episode of the Once A DJ Podcast, DJ Swerve shares his journey in the DJing world. He talks about his early interest in DJing and scratching, starting with pause tapes and eventually getting his first mixer. He discusses his love for hip hop and the influence of artists like Public Enemy. DJ Swerve also shares his experiences gigging out, joining VIP Sound and the Starlight Crew, and participating in the DMC competition. He talks about his transition to full-time DJing, joining Kiss FM, and touring with the Pure Hip Hop albums. Adam Gow discusses his music collections, recording hip hop compilations, the politics of compilation albums, funny road trip stories, touring with Mystique, and transitioning from radio to Love Thing London. He also shares his thoughts on the future of radio and DJing.

Takeaways

- Compilation albums involve a lot of politics and negotiations with record labels.

- Touring with artists can lead to memorable experiences and encounters with other musicians.

- Transitioning from radio to other ventures can provide new opportunities for growth and creativity.

- The future of radio lies in creating unique and engaging content that offers a sense of community and connection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Once A DJ Podcast

02:15 Early Interest in DJing and Scratching

04:43 Pause Tapes and First Mixer

08:31 Getting Second Turntable and Mixer

09:30 Introduction to Hip Hop and DJing for Friends

11:31 Influence of Public Enemy and Hip Hop Culture

13:25 Making Mixtapes and DJing for Parties

15:22 Gigging Out and DJing for Bucks

18:59 Getting Turntables and Joining VIP Sound

20:49 DJing at Soul Nights and Joining Starlight Crew

22:11 Participating in DMC Competition

25:00 Experience in DMC and Influential DJs

28:47 DJing for Soul Nights and Joining Kiss FM

31:39 Transitioning to Full-Time DJing

38:50 DJing on Kiss FM and Life-Changing Opportunity

45:57 Transitioning from Day Job to Full-Time DJing

49:22 Touring with Kiss and Pure Hip Hop Albums

51:18 Adam Gow's Music Collections

52:31 Recording the Hip Hop Compilation

53:27 The Politics of Compilation Albums

54:54 Working with Warner's and Shorty

55:23 Choosing Songs for Compilations

56:20 Road Trips and Funny Stories

57:49 Secret Party Spots

58:10 Glasgow Gig and DJ Swerve

59:18 Passport Troubles and Taiwan Gig

01:00:44 Touring with Mystique

01:01:38 Working with Live Bands

01:03:06 Music Directors and Live Bands

01:04:05 Memorable Gigs and Tours

01:06:40 Transitioning from Radio to Love Thing London

01:10:57 Transitioning from Kiss to Love Thing London

01:11:26 The Future of Radio and DJing

Once A DJ is brought to you by:

1. https://www.vinylunderground.co.uk - 10% off your next order using code onceadj
2. https://www.sureshotshop.com/ - Record adapters (including customs) & accessories
3. https://myslipmats.com/ - Custom and off the shelf Slipmats, dividers and more.
4. Once A DJ is a https://remote-ctrl.co.uk production

Other ways to support the show

1. Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
2. Any feedback or questions? Hit up the Once A DJ Instagram Page
3. Subscribe to the Once A DJ Patreon
4. Buy your Once A DJ Sureshot 45 adapter clamps

In this conversation, Brandon Block discusses his journey as a DJ, his struggles with addiction, and his path to recovery. He shares insights into the early days of DJing in Ibiza and the impact of fame and notoriety. Brandon also emphasizes the importance of self-care and the need to detox from technology. He highlights his work in mental health advocacy and the creation of support networks for those seeking help. In this conversation, Brandon shares his journey of personal growth and how it led him to help others. The importance of mental health and self-awareness is discussed, highlighting the need to prioritize our well-being. Finding balance in life and setting authentic goals are emphasized as key factors in achieving personal fulfillment. The conversation also touches on the power of DJing and meditation in promoting self-discovery and presence.