ROAD PODCAST (Reflections Of A DJ)

Episode 349: Leaders Of The New School On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome four of the top DJs in open format on the east coast, ‘Leaders of the New School’, @Flygerian, @Milhousenyc, @DJKendollaz and @Shwcase with guest co-host @DJGoldfingerNYC. The crew speak on their favorite parties in Brooklyn like @SouthHouseNYC (08:10), the process of throwing their own parties (37:01) and the whole crew curate a dream party in NYC (1:03:10). The crew debate on missing playing #Diddy songs (1:13:00), training a crowd at a party (1:20:55) and discuss DJ etiquette being the biggest problem within the current industry (1:33:30). Finally, the crew is divided on putting out live mixes (2:00:05).  This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 348: ROB SWIFT (PART 2): " The Origin Of The X-Ecutioners" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome back hip hop DJ, turntablist and original member of the turntablist group The X-Ecutioners, Rob Swift (@brolicarm) for the second half of his interview with guest co-host @DJGoldfingerNYC. Rob Swift speaks on joining the X Men (02:04), the rivalry between Superman and X Men (13:30) and how @DJClarkKent patched it up (19:30). Finally, he reminisces on the surreal experience of #RickRubin wanting to sign The X-Ecutioners (32:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome hip hop DJ, turntablist and original member of the turntablist group The X-Ecutioners, Rob Swift (@brolicarm) with guest co-host @DJGoldfingerNYC. Rob discusses the inspiration behind his latest book ‘The City of Hip-Hop: New York City, The Bronx, and a Peace Meeting’ (02:28) and poses the question “what race started hip hop?” (23:20). He discusses the connection between reparations and hip hop (34:01) and the chain reaction that led up to hip hop forming in the Bronx (58:01). Finally, Rob speaks on how ethnicity solely doesn’t make you a part of hip hop (1:27:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 347: DJ KASH "How ‘Bamba Tuesdays’ And Amapiano Redefined My DJ Career" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome producer, DJ, and creator of @BambaTuesdays, DJ Kash (@DJKashATL). Kash reflects on his journey from attending BeatStreet, where he was inspired by Goldfinger's (@DJGoldfingerNYC) DJ skills (01:10), to adjusting to life in Atlanta and starting his own party, #BambaTuesdays (04:50). He discusses the importance of picking a genre (08:10) and notes the evolution of Atlanta’s nightlife (15:40). The crew discusses @DJCrooked’s theory of ‘USB Stick Delusion’ (38:12), "gentrified Afro-House" diluting cultures (49:01), and Kash’s top 5 Amapiano tracks (1:10:30). Finally, Kash shares the challenges of maintaining passion for music in Atlanta's nightlife and the importance of catering to male audiences in the city’s DJ scene (1:26:05). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 346: J. Period “The DJ Storyteller” On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome Brooklyn-based mixtape DJ, remixer, and hip-hop producer J.Period (@jperiodbk), with guest host @DJGoldfingerNYC. J.Period reflects on his journey in the music industry, starting with his early mixtapes in the 2000s (00:31), and discusses the creation of iconic projects like "Best of Nas" (9:31). He credits pivotal moments, such as his Big Daddy Kane and Lauryn Hill mixtapes, with propelling his success (19:01). J.Period also shares insights into his work with Q-Tip and De La Soul (29:01) and reveals that his mixtapes will soon be available on Apple Music (41:01). He reflects on the influence of figures like Questlove and his approach to collaborations (54:01), as well as how he got involved with the 50 Years of Hip-Hop Tribute at the Grammys (1:00:05). The conversation also touches on navigating compensation with artists (1:10:50), learning from mentors like Jazzy Jeff (1:22:40), and the experience of working with Wyclef Jean, culminating in a 20-year musical connection (1:25:10). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

The 'ROAD 10' is a bonus segment featuring a curated set of 10 questions inspired by the 'Proust Questionnaire.' These consistent, reflective, and often revealing questions are asked to every guest at the end of their appearance on the Road Podcast (Reflections of a DJ). True to its name, the 'ROAD 10' offers a unique glimpse into each guest's personality, values, and preferences, blending humor, introspection, and candid moments. Originally exclusive to Road Podcast Patreon subscribers, these interviews are now available on YouTube after a one-month debut on Patreon. The 'ROAD 10' is designed to offer viewers a memorable and intimate connection with each guest.

Episode 345: DJ SPINNA "Stevie Wonders Favorite DJ" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome New York’s finest @DJSpinna and guest host @DJGoldfingerNYC. Spinna reflects on getting into the iconic Paradise Garage at just 16 (1:10), talks about the rise of NYC house clubs in the late 80s and early 90s (17:20), and reveals some of his legendary DJ equipment (45:10). He discusses being called the founder of theme parties with his ‘MJ vs Prince’ party (1:04:09), shares #Prince’s reaction to the event (1:11:50), and reflects on his top DJ memory—performing with #StevieWonder (1:19:10). The crew also talks about how new DJs often quick mix out of songs after a lack of immediate crowd reaction (1:47:05). Finally, Spinna looks back on his career and his growth as a DJ (1:56:02). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 344: DJ CASSIDY "His Journey To ‘Pass The Mic’" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome Grammy-nominated performer, producer, and MC @DJCassidy, along with guest co-host @DJGoldfinerNYC. Cassidy and Goldie reflect on their early experiences and the evolution of Cassidy's career (02:10). Cassidy recalls his first encounter with @Diddy (12:10), discusses his rise in the industry (30:12), and shares his love for DJing, influenced by RUN DMC and soul/R&B music (39:10). He talks about his legendary birthday parties (1:04:55), the iconic performer lineups he curated (1:21:00), and the unforgettable moment when Jay-Z and Nas rapped together at his party (1:32:55). Cassidy also discusses his approach to reading the room and DJing for celebrities (1:47:01), his experience DJing during the EDM era (1:58:01), and how he curates the #PasstheMic roster (2:02:01). Finally, he reveals the origins of “Pass the Mic” with Verdine from #EarthWindandFire (2:27:01).

The 'ROAD 10' is a bonus segment featuring a curated set of 10 questions inspired by the 'Proust Questionnaire.' These consistent, reflective, and often revealing questions are asked to every guest at the end of their appearance on the Road Podcast (Reflections of a DJ). True to its name, the 'ROAD 10' offers a unique glimpse into each guest's personality, values, and preferences, blending humor, introspection, and candid moments. Originally exclusive to Road Podcast Patreon subscribers, these interviews are now available on YouTube after a one-month debut on Patreon. The 'ROAD 10' is designed to offer viewers a memorable and intimate connection with each guest.

Episode 343: JIMMY JAM On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome legendary Grammy Award-winning producer and DJ, Jimmy Jam (@flytetymejam). Jimmy Jam reflects on various milestones in his career, starting with his involvement in the Grammys (01:55), he discusses his favorite new artist (02:40) and the impact of the fires on the awards show (05:34). He breaks down the samples in his production of @JanetJackson’s hit songs (18:45), and the crew credits Jimmy with the creation of New Jack Swing (34:60). Jimmy Jam speaks on his early years in Minnesota DJing (42:20), joining Terry Lewis’ band (@flytetymelewis) (50:10), and recalls going to junior high with #Prince (@1:05:55). Finally, he talks about getting back into DJing (1:35:10) and which current hip-hop artist he would love to work with (2:20:01).

The ROAD 10: Mark Ronson The 'ROAD 10' is a bonus segment featuring a curated set of 10 questions inspired by the 'Proust Questionnaire.' These consistent, reflective, and often revealing questions are asked to every guest at the end of their appearance on the Road Podcast (Reflections of a DJ). True to its name, the 'ROAD 10' offers a unique glimpse into each guest's personality, values, and preferences, blending humor, introspection, and candid moments. Originally exclusive to Road Podcast Patreon subscribers, these interviews are now available on YouTube after a one-month debut on Patreon. The 'ROAD 10' is designed to offer viewers a memorable and intimate connection with each guest.

Episode 342: MARK RONSON On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome Grammy and Oscar-winning producer and DJ Mark Ronson (@IAmMarkRonson). Mark reflects on his journey, starting with his first DJ names "Mark the Spark" and "DJ Old English" (01:34), shares how he got his first gig through @BillSpector (06:24), and admits he was a better DJ before @Serato was released (22:10). He acknowledges his mixed feelings about playing his own music (35:20), talks about his hit “Ooh Wee” (46:30), and discusses his first album "flopping" (51:35). Mark also delves into his influential production work with @LilyAllen (58:00), creating magic with @AmyWinehouse on their hit “You Know I'm No Good” (1:05:20), and collaborating with @BrunoMars on “Locked Out of Heaven” (1:24:02). Finally, he speaks on taking part in major performances at the #Superbowl and #Oscars (1:30:40) and his documentary series Watch The Sound (1:37:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 341: RALPH MCDANIELS “Inside Video Music Box” On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome famed music video director, VJ, and co-creator of the longest-running music video show, #VideoMusicBox, Ralph McDaniels (@videomusicbox). Ralph discusses his experiences and pivotal moments in the history of hip hop and music videos, starting with a memorable birthday celebration where #Biggie and #JayZ attended his party (01:55). He reflects on the creation of Video Music Box (08:35) and his role in airing Fresh Fest 85’ (20:00). Ralph also talks about his transition into directing videos (48:00), his role in popularizing shout-outs (56:00), and shares how MTV blocked him (1:24:00). Finally, Ralph speaks on working on new shows (1:42:20) and his book Roscoe Learns About Video Music Box (2:02:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 340: DJ MARTY PLAY + LB1 "Inside 1Oak and the Underground Pandemic Parties” On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome New York’s finest @DJMartyPlay and @DJLB1. LB1 discusses recording @DJCrooked's set without Crooked's consent (01:10), and the crew reminisces about their legendary DJ nights in NYC (09:18). LB1 and Marty get candid about DJing the underground party scene in NYC during COVID-19 (37:12). Finally, the guys dive into the backlash of playing parties during the pandemic (40:40) and explain how DJ tips work at strip clubs (1:02:10). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!

Episode 339: DJ JAZZY JOYCE “Hip-Hop's Eleanor Roosevelt” On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas are excited to welcome the legendary DJ and the Bronx’s finest, @DJJazzyJoyce, alongside guest host @DJGoldFinderNYC. Jazzy Joyce discusses her legacy, acknowledging she wasn’t fully aware of the historical impact she was making at the time (02:34). She reflects on her early experiences, including playing clubs by age 16 (9:33), recounts battling major acts like Cash Money (@TheRealDJCashMoney) (17:55), and remembers working on the track “It’s My Beat” with Sweet Tee (17:55). Jazzy talks about how hip hop has changed (33:01), breaks down her time on @VH1’s Master of the Mix (43:01), and discusses the dynamics of being a female DJ and battling unwanted sexual attention (57:10). She speaks on her career in radio (1:13:20) and emphasizes the importance of documenting your history within your DJ career (1:35:40). Finally, Jazzy reflects on her contributions to Digable Planets' (@PlanetsDigable) Blowout Comb (1:49:01) and remembers her mentor, DJ Whiz Kid (1:56:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!

Episode 338: MAX GLAZER "Celebrating 25 Years Of Federation Sound" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas are excited to welcome DJ, producer, and New York’s finest, @MaxGlazer, along with guest host @DJGoldFinderNYC. Max reflects on his journey in the NYC music scene (2:20), from working at iconic record stores like #FatBeats and #8Ball Records to becoming a prominent DJ in the city’s dancehall and reggae circuits (8:08). He shares stories from his early career, including the challenge of opening for headliners at venues like #TheTunnel and #Limelight (23:30) and the rise of dancehall and reggae in the mid-2000s (34:19). Max recounts memorable moments, such as premiering Jay-Z and Nas diss tracks in the club for the first time in 2001 (52:10), and details the foundation of starting the Federation Sound system with @CiphaSounds (1:31:39). Max also talks about working and touring with a young Rihanna (@BadGalRiri) (1:34:10) and encourages tour DJs to understand the landscape to ensure they are properly compensated (1:50:40). Finally, he discusses his working relationships with Sean Paul (@DuttyPaul) (1:58:45) and Vybz Kartel (@VybzKartel) (2:30:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!

Episode 337: DANCES "Why No One Dances At Festivals" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas are excited to welcome iconic vocalist, EDM DJ, and producer Dances (@DancesLife). Dances shares his educational insights on medical and street drugs (00:55) and opens up about his chronic pain after a car accident and his road to recovery (5:10). He announces plans to release more new songs in 2024 (16:10), describes nearly quitting DJing unless he achieved an income goal of $200K (22:40), and talks about creating his song "To The Beat" with inclusivity in mind (27:50). Dances addresses the trend of people not dancing at festivals (35:10), critiques the current state of Afro House music (41:20), and reflects on the need for DJs to engage with the party atmosphere (53:30). Finally, Dances highlights notable dance/EDM clubs in LA, favoring underground events like Lights Down Low (@lights_down_low) and Nite Slut (@NiteSlut) (1:12:40).

Episode 336: NINA SKY " Celebrating The 20th Anniversary For 'Move Ya Body' " On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas are excited to welcome the Nuyorican music duo Nina Sky (@NinaSkyOfficial). Nina Sky discusses celebrating the 20th anniversary of their hit "Move Ya Body," its impact, and their involvement in the reggaeton movement with tracks like "Oye Mi Canto" (1:40). They talk about their new party @Y2QueParty, featuring guest performances from 2000s acts like @Lumidee and @DevEsCaliente (09:01), and share their experiences as DJs before achieving music fame (14:10). Nina Sky addresses whether they’re tired of talking about "Move Ya Body" (23:01), mentions their shelved album (28:50), and emphasizes the importance of their partnership in navigating challenges after leaving their label (33:40). Finally, they share plans for new music and the possibility of releasing their acapellas (38:50). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!

Episode 335: BALLADS "How A Viral Remix Changed My Life" On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the fellas welcome music producer and DJ @BalladsMusic with guest co-host @DJPDot. Ballads speaks on his hectic year with his first US Tour (1:33), discusses losing his job the same day he put out his “Family Ties” edit (3:40), and talks about his early production days (8:50). He opens up about struggling with his mental health as a producer and asking for help (18:10). Finally, Ballads talks about seeing @Skrillex and #FredAgain play his edits (39:10) and explains why #NYC was his favorite stop on his US tour (53:50).

2024 Wrap-Up On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the crew recaps the last year in music. See below for the Top 2024 categories on this episode. 1. Top 5 Club Hits - 01:30 2. Top 5 Edits - 28:27 3. Top 5 Editors - 48:31 4. Top 3 Overrated Tracks - 1:17:02 5. Top 3 Underrated Tracks - 1:52:51 6. Top 3 Artists - 2:12:50 7. Top Live DJ Sets - 2:17:07  8. Favorite Moments - 2:24:10 9. Most valuable lessons learned - 2:36:41