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February Profile:DJ CradleRock
Crew:Artificial Intelligence Productions, MojoWax Records, Super Saiyan Crew |
How did you get started ?
Well….I had been playing drums for 9 years and had actually been touring around the North American continent doing shows for fun and competition. I played in front of crowds of about 25,000+ and ranked 7th in the world at the D.C.I. competition. Well, when you get to that point of competition the stress becomes so large that it was no longer fun. If I were to mess up in front of a crowd I would be reamed in front of them, and sadly, I am not perfect. So it eventually was no longer fun, which was the whole reason I started. So about 2 years ago, I went over to my friend Chad's house (who is now known as DJ Midway) and he showed me his brand new Technics with Vestax mixer that he had purchased. I was intrigued, so he and I slowly but surely began to match beats. We used to share about 10 records and we would play them over and over. Needless to say that got pretty lame so we both started buying more and more records and we got the feel of what we wanted to play. Chad branched off into 2-step while I remained House. With the help of my beloved friend and now booking agent, John Fossum, we three decided that we would throw our own parties and play them for kicks. We rented out a place and got some kegs. We charged 5 bucks at the door and the party went off really well. From that point we both knew that this was lots of fun and decided to get more serious about it. Soon after I released a demo of my favorite records and the demo was copied and copied and copied. Everyone seemed to love what I was spinning so I started to get a lot of gigs. So I pursued this life and decided that I would use my expertise drum knowledge for furthering my position till I finally began to produce. I made a lot of connections with people and ended up getting a small but none the less great record contract. So to this day, I am working on my original music which I hope will make it into some great hands one day. Now I am taking some producing classes up at North Texas so I can become an expert on producing. That is all.
Who inspires you musically and why?
The number one inspiration (DJ wise) would be Donald Glaude; I have never seen such a spectacle. It inspired me to not only be a DJ but a performer. So I always try to get into the music and have a lot of fun. Olav Basoski and Phats 'n' Smalls are my hero's when it comes to producing though. I have never heard a song from them that I didn't like and I try to model myself after their brilliant talents.
How much have you changed musically since you started?
I have basically stayed the same with my primary interests in house music, but I am getting more interested in "Latin Themed House" Ex. Pasilda; Knee Deep Mix.
Name two of your favorite tracks.
Phats 'n' Smalls; September 99
Pumpin'; Tom Novy
What do you think of the current state of the Dallas Scene?
I am too laid back to really care what's going on, but I would like to see people clean up their act a little. Cuddle Puddles freak me out.
When is your next gig?
I kind of fly by the seat of my pants, but I have been booked in Canada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Cancun. I am not sure on any of the dates, I leave that to John. If you want something more specific hit me on an email.
Do you want to thank anyone?
Yes. I want to thank Midway for starting all this funny business. I want to thank John for having such high hopes for me and pushing me to get off my lazy ass. Without John, I have no idea where I might be. I want to thank Charlie (Juice) for letting us join his noble organization and helping me master my CDs. I want to thank all the promoters who had me out. Big thanks to the Jumble Tribe. Big thanks to Dallas Raves for providing this opportunity and for trying to do something good for Dallas. Big thanks to my brother who has always helped me on my way and to my sister who laughs too much. Big props to Rob Vaughn, Matt Morrow, Kris Kirk, Joe Laneous, DJ D'vine, Chris Jumble, Matt McKee, Chris Todd, Cy Bucheister, Ryan Donner, Brandon Priddy, Cody Bell and last but not least, my pal, Josh Anguiano. Thanks for everything.
Do you have anything else to add?
Yes. Thank you to everyone else out there who look past people's faults and show love. And to Jennifer, The sun will rise tomorrow.