DallasDanceMusic.com

...Continued from page 1

April Profile
May Profile:
Ronin

Contact: ronin@suckmydeck.org
Website: SuckMyDeck, Vinylkittens, Shejay, Groovesettlement
Audio: Sleepytime, Deep Persuasion Mix, Lost Files Mix - [Click to Listen!]

Do you listen to any non electronic dance music? If so, what do you listen to?
I do but not often. Radio bothers me, so the majority of what I choose to listen to is on CD or LP. I am very into classic rock, my two favorite bands being The Doors and Led Zeppelin. I can be caught listening to Steve Vai, or Joe Satriani, and classical music that range from Beethoven to Andres Segovia.

Name your top two tunes.
Actually I have three.
Keep on truckin' "by Pizzaman (Norman Cook), this track was his first attempt at production and I feel it is a classic. The Doors "Five to One" live in Miami in 1969. The whole mood of this song speaks for itself and can be applied to the times of today. The last is also a Doors song that was performed only at live shows. "The Celebration of the Lizard", this song as a whole is more than a song, it is a performance. In my mind it personifies what every dj does in their sets, take people on an emotional journey with music.

What is the best thing about djing?
Energy. I can't explain it, but you have this connection with your listeners. The energy that cycles between is just amazing. Nothing comes close to that feeling, it's addicting.

What was your favorite event to play at? And why?
New Years Eve at Minc. The place was packed and hot, and people were crazy and sweaty. Just the way I like the atmosphere.

Any gigs/residencies coming up you'd like to list?
I just wrapped up close to a year residency at Minc. I am currently playing at Crave with Eric S. and Kelle Marie on Wed. It's the resurgence of HUMPDAYZ.

What do you think of the current state of the Dallas scene? And what do you think we can do to improve it?
I have seen things better in the last few years. The quality of dj's locally and from out of town is top notch. The one thing I don't see enough of is support of and for the locals and their weeklies. Many of my friends say that the scene is over saturated, I myself can't be everywhere all the time but I do try and be supportive. It's a nice feeling to look up and see your peers and friends at your weekly or your event. Overall Dallas is on the map and I'm honored to say that I play my part. As far as improvement is concerned, it all starts with us. We get out of this what we put into it. Every person involved should help to show this is a positive movement about music and expression. I'm all for keeping it "underground", but this scene needs a positive image attached to it for us to be able to continue it, and enjoy it. We all love what we do and being a part of something bigger than most can imagine, so let your government know we can be responsible.

What do you see that other music artists do that annoys you?
Do I get sent to the firing squad after I answer this? The one thing that I see that is a big pet peeve of mine is becoming too big for your britches and forgetting where you came from. I've meet so many djs and producers that I admired, until I met them. Quite a few are assholes. Being confident is one thing, but having an ego is such a turn off. Most of the people I've met, I don't even bother listening to their music anymore. Ronin @ Chicks with Deck Tour

Do you want to thank anyone?
The powers above for blessing me and giving me courage to follow my passion. My parents and immediate family. My pillar of support and my muse Erin. All the girls of SuckMyDeck. Demarkus, John, Redeye, Eric, Sona, Matt, Leslie, Timmers, Courtney, Hub, Monarch. Everyone who has supported me over the years. If I didn't list your name, don't be upset, you are appreciated.

Do you have anything else to add?
I want to give a personal shout out to my nephew Miles, you mean the world to me and you will do nothing but get stronger and stronger. This little man should be an inspiration to us all.


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