Once A DJ

Summary DJ Delightful shares his journey of growing up in Bulgaria, discovering hip hop through his brother's tapes and CDs, and the challenges of accessing music in a country with limited resources. He discusses the influence of skateboarding culture on his interest in DJing and his early experiences with mixing and scratching. Delightful also talks about his move to the UK to study and DJ in Edinburgh, as well as his time volunteering in Calais during the migrant crisis. He shares his perspective on the DJing journey and the challenges he faced in finding a hip hop community in China. Del discusses his struggles with DJing in China and Bulgaria, the challenges of establishing a DJ career in Sofia, and the lack of support and opportunities in the local DJ scene. He talks about his decision to move to Vienna and later to Kuala Lumpur, and the difficulties he faced in finding gigs and building a community in these cities. Del also shares his experiences in winning battles and the lack of career opportunities that came with it. He concludes by announcing his retirement from DJing and his focus on teaching scratching online. Takeaways Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:54 Growing Up in Bulgaria and Discovering Hip Hop 05:31 Record Shops and Access to Music in Bulgaria 06:38 Influence of Brother and Early Interest in DJing 07:28 Getting Started as a DJ 09:12 Challenges and Influences in the DJing Journey 11:44 Learning to Scratch and Mix 12:52 Internet Access and Learning DJing Techniques 15:18 Transition to the UK and DJing in Edinburgh 24:00 Impact of Studying in the UK 26:25 DJing in China and Volunteering in Calais 29:18 Perspective and Challenges in the DJing Journey 31:39 Moving on from Edinburgh and Teaching in China 35:13 DJing in China and Limited Hip Hop Scene 36:42 Struggles with DJing in China and Bulgaria 37:21 Creating an Instagram Page and Gaining Attention 38:11 Switching to a Different Lifestyle in Bulgaria 39:00 Teaching English and Practicing Heavily 39:20 Time Difference Between Bulgaria and China 39:41 Having More Time to Practice 40:12 Entering International Competitions 41:03 Creating Videos and Gaining Attention 42:10 Struggling to Establish a DJ Career in Sofia 43:09 Lack of Opportunities in the DJ Scene in Sofia 44:08 Struggling to Find Regular Gigs 45:06 Trying to Run Multiple DJ Projects 46:08 Challenges of Organizing Events in Sofia 48:30 Lack of Support and Opportunities in the DJ Scene 51:03 Feeling Unappreciated by the Local Scratch Community 52:48 Feeling Unwelcome in Sofia and Deciding to Leave 54:36 Moving to Vienna and the Pandemic 55:37 Impact of Winning Battles and Feedback from Vect 58:58 Leveraging Battle Wins into Bookings and Touring 01:01:42 Moving to Kuala Lumpur and the Lack of Opportunities 01:05:37 Announcing Retirement from DJing 01:13:40 The Challenges of DJing in Kuala Lumpur 01:20:43 Continuing to Teach Scratching Online

Guest links: 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 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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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.

Bronx hip hop legend Danny Dan The Beat Mann (FACEBOOK // INSTAGRAM) joins Adam to discuss his lifelong passion for vinyl and wide-ranging musical tastes influenced by his diverse family background. He shares stories of digging for records and producing his acclaimed "Dusty Fingers" series. Danny explains his approach to curating and mastering obscure funk, soul and jazz records, and why sound quality matters. He also reflects on the early hip hop scene in New York, working with producer Biz Markie, and coming back to DJing after years focused on production. Lovers of cratedigging and hip hop history won't want to miss this!

In the final part of this 3-part series, Peter Parker continues to open up about his life journey, including struggling with loss of self-esteem and depression. He discusses reconnecting with music projects and friends that helped pull him out of a self-destructive period. Peter also shares being diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety as an adult and the self-work he has done to better understand himself and integrate those aspects of who he is. He talks about appearing in a Russian documentary film that was difficult for him to watch at first but ultimately helped build his confidence back. Peter emphasizes the importance of community and describes how he has been able to tap back into his passion for DJing and music by connecting with supportive friends old and new. He seems to now have greater self-awareness and resilience to cope with setbacks. Ultimately, Peter conveys being in a positive place where he feels aligned with his purpose and excited about current and future creative projects.

In Part 2 of this monster interview with Peter Parker, we go through the development and releases of Fingathing, and how a strong bond was formed which went way beyond just guys in a band. We go through the good times, into what unravelled into a dark period in Dan’s life. As you heard there, this second sitting of the interview kind of ended at an appropriate time to align with the end of act 2 of Dan’s tale. We’ll be back with you in a week or so for the final instalment of the Peter Parker story. Until then take care and you’ll hear from me soon. Reach Dan on his instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danpeterparkerbaxter/ Fingathing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialfingathing/

This episode follows Dan Baxter AKA Fingathing's Peter Parker's journey from a bedroom turntablist to touring internationally with big names in music. He describes growing up immersed in music and developing a passion for hip-hop DJing and battling. After competing in DJ competitions, he catches the attention of producer Mark Rae who invites him to collaborate. Dan joins touring bands, impresses crowds with his scratching skills, and travels the world DJing while still in his early 20s. He reflects on grasping sudden opportunities and figuring out his musical identity on the fly. The episode is a candid look at the rapid rise of a turntable talent.

In this raw and candid interview, iconic drum & bass DJ and producer DJ Rap shares her journey through her early years into discovering the rave scene, and how it helped her to move past some early traumas, both providing her solace, and simultaneously planting the seeds for her pioneering career. She discusses becoming one of the biggest female DJs in the male-dominated jungle and drum & bass scene and smashing boundaries, as well as the non-stop hustle required to balance music production, DJ gigs, running a record label and community, and constantly learning new skills. DJ Rap also reflects with honesty on the personal sacrifices she's made over her decades-long career, including forgoing marriage and children. An intimate look into the life of this legendary artist. Find out more at https://www.djrap.com 0:00 - DJing and drum and bass with a legendary DJ and producer. 1:48 - Nomadic upbringing and cultural exposure in boarding schools. 4:51 - Childhood experiences, bullying, and family dynamics. 8:22 - Family struggles and personal growth. 11:49 - Parental neglect and trauma in childhood. 14:42 - Overcoming childhood trauma and healing. 19:04 - Music, piano training, and career in dance music. 23:28 - Trauma, abuse, and self-discovery in the rave scene. 27:16 - Raves, drug use, and DJing in the 1990s. 32:01 - Early days of female DJing and production. 35:36 - Sexism in the electronic music scene. 39:17 - Experiences in the early days of electronic music. 43:42 - Early days in drum and bass music and creative process. 47:52 - Music production philosophy and industry experiences. 51:57 - Reflecting on the evolution of drum and bass music. 56:23 - DJing, technology, and personal preferences. 1:00:32 - Stage presence and performance. 1:04:13 - DJing, music, and intimacy with the crowd. 1:08:28 - Artist struggles with streaming platforms. 1:13:05 - Learning from mistakes in the music industry. 1:16:04 - Music career, retirement, and return to drum and bass. 1:20:45 - Career resurgence after 22 years in music. 1:25:19 - Managing workload and building community. 1:29:24 - Work-life balance as a musician.

Journey through the vibrant history of DJ culture, soundscapes, and electronic evolution with Paul Noble, founder of London's iconic Spiritland. From spinning records in the early '90s to his deep dive into high-end audio systems and community-driven club concepts, Paul lays it all on the deck. Tap into his insights on the UK music scene, personal anecdotes, and his latest ventures. Whether you’re a die-hard audiophile or a curious music lover, this episode's got something for your ears! To find out more about Spiritland, head to https://spiritland.com/

This week on Once I DJ I talk to someone who’s never actually been a DJ, but has now told one of the most significant stories of DJ culture. Our guest is visual artist turned film maker Omar Acosta about his journey from young aspiring graffiti artist, to writing, co-producing and directing his latest project “Mixtape: The Movie”. We get hear how Tony Touch’s mixtapes kept him abreast of the latest trends while he spent a 5 year period in Puerto Rico, and journey through his career to the point where he learnt to tell the stories which mattered to him the most. Omar's site: www.omaracosta.tv

In this week’s episode, we sat with Aloha Got Soul founder Roger Bong to discuss his journey starting with needing to feel a connection to the homeland, through blog, to label, to record shop. What started off as a djing-led conversation ended up covering the many facets of turning a passion project into a career. PLEASE NOTE: This was recorded before the Hawaiian wildfires broke out, hence no mention of this awful tragedy. For anyone interested in supporting Maui can visit https://www.instagram.com/hawaiiancouncil/ for more info.

In this fascinating episode of "Once A DJ", we delve deep into the life and career of Phil Lembke, a.k.a. Sticky Dojah, a Germany-born DJ who made a name for himself in Germany and then New York. Listen to Sticky Dojah share his journey from growing up in East Germany to embracing the first wave of hip hop and Turkish b-boy music. Explore his experiences with the advent of cable television and the importance of radio in his life. We get into the guts of the German hip hop scene in the 90s, the challenges of living away from bigger cities, and the insights from his very first trip to New York. We then switch gears to his beginnings in the music industry, his early performances, and how his love for music eventually led him to enroll in the Red Bull Music Academy. Get an insider's view of Berlin's music scene, the establishment of pirate radio station Loudfm, and the evolution of music in real-time. As the story unfolds, Sticky Dojah delves into the decision to become a full-time DJ, moving to New York, and how he navigated the industry as a student. Hear about his brief hiatus from DJing, his return on his terms, and how he juggles his other music projects today. End the episode with some powerful advice for anyone considering a career in DJing.

This week Adam sits down with Rob Pursey - Master of Ceremonies and DJ at Hip Hop Karaoke, Southern Hospitality/Players Ball, former Fat Lace and Hip Hop Connection journalist, and general hip hop authority. We discuss his journey South from Darlington and Newcastle through Leeds and Manchester, to London. We learn how busy it's possible for one person to be, juggling promotion, journalism and DJing with primary school teaching. We find out how influential hearing contemporary Southern rap in the club was for Rob, and how it ushered in a whole new era of DJing and promotion for him, and how the Southern Hospitality crew basically became an A&R force in the US and across Europe.

In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey with Neil Nice, tracing his path from a skater in Rhode Island to becoming a renowned DJ. Tune in as we explore the early influences that shaped Neil's passion for music and how he found his way into the DJing scene and then into embarking on a whole career of music curation. From his first gig to working at record stores like Turntable Lab, Neil shares his experiences and the impact of turntablism on his life. Join us as we delve into the evolution of DJing in New York City, Neil's ventures in the music industry, and the importance of music curation. This episode is a treasure trove of captivating stories, music discoveries, and valuable insights for aspiring DJs. Get ready to ride the waves of rhythm and unlock the secrets behind Neil Nice's remarkable journey.