The one with DJ Day

Once A DJ

DJ Day discusses his journey into music and DJing, influenced by his parents' love for music and his discovery of scratching through songs like Herbie Hancock's 'Rockit'. He shares his passion for blending different genres and creating a warm, melodic atmosphere in his mixes. DJ Day also emphasizes the importance of confidence and taking risks as a DJ, whether it's playing bold tracks or experimenting with unique transitions. He expresses his desire to explore the DJing community beyond just the scratch world and share his thoughts on the evolving landscape of DJing. Damien discusses his experience with scratch DJing and the lack of variety and musicality in the scene. He emphasizes the importance of complementing, not combatting, the music when scratching. He also talks about his albums 'Land of a Thousand Chances' and 'Life After You' and how they reflect personal experiences. Damien shares his frustration with a recent tour experience in Canada where he was not paid properly and had to leave early. He also discusses his involvement with The Do-Over party and his collaborations with Aloe Blacc. In this final part of the conversation, Damien discusses his experiences in the music industry, including his interactions with other DJs and his participation in the Playlist Retreat. He also reflects on the changing landscape of DJing and the challenges and opportunities it presents. Damien shares a story about a memorable incident at a club in Belgium and discusses his journey to sobriety. He concludes by expressing his gratitude for his current state of well-being and his excitement for the future.

Takeaways

• DJ Day's love for music was influenced by his parents and discovering scratching through songs like Herbie Hancock's 'Rockit'.
• He enjoys blending different genres and creating a warm, melodic atmosphere in his mixes.
• Confidence is key in taking risks as a DJ, whether it's playing bold tracks or experimenting with unique transitions.
• DJ Day is interested in exploring the DJing community beyond just the scratch world and sharing his thoughts on the evolving landscape of DJing. Scratch DJing should focus on complementing the music and adding musicality, rather than just showcasing technical skills.
• Personal experiences and emotions can greatly influence the creation of albums and music.
• It is important to be cautious and ensure that all contractual obligations are met before embarking on a tour.
• The Do-Over party is a highly sought-after event for DJs, and being invited to perform is a significant achievement.
• Collaborating with artists like Aloe Blacc can lead to global success and recognition. The music industry is constantly evolving, and DJs must adapt to the changing landscape.
• The Playlist Retreat is an honor and an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in the industry.
• Sobriety can lead to personal growth and a newfound appreciation for oneself.
• The future of DJing is uncertain, but embracing new technology and staying true to oneself can lead to success.
• It's important to be grateful for the present moment and to look forward to what the future holds.

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