The original New York producer gets set for SSW3 in bonny Scotland
Interview : Nicky Trax
Hi Nicky and welcome to DMCWORLD. Is this your first time at SSW3 and what can the weekender crew expect from your set?
Hey Nicky! It is my first time at SSW3 and the crew can expect an energetic expression of soul, funk and r&b with an infusion of underground disco hits for the discerning disco fan.”
How does playing in Scotland compare to other countries?
“The Scots are an enthusiastic, energetic and educated crowd so it’s better than other places because they are appreciate and are excited about the music – which usually causes a frenetic response to a good set.”
How does it feel to have been on top of the scene for so many?
“It’s a great honour and gift. I became myopic! In the 80s I left music to work with PWA’s for 9 years. The experience expanded my perception and world view and I understand what real suffering is. And so I tend to appreciate great art with a profundity I did not have before.”
What do you think of the current house music renaissance, it’s great to have it back!
“People finally are tired of hearing music that sounds like pots and pans and are attracted back to real instruments and vocals. I don’t think house has ever gone away, and yes, I think there is a new appreciation for the soul that house exudes which other genres lack.I knew it would happen and I just was hoping I’d still be around for it.”
How do you manage to keep it fresh, is there a pressure as a legendary DJ/Producer to always be one step ahead in the house scene?
“I never think in terms of I when I play…I think in terms of we or inspiration from a higher. It’s usually like I’m playing everything for the first time. I have learned that things always change and evolve and for this reason I try not to put any pressure on myself. I feel the crowd keeps it fresh for me, a new audience, a new venue and a new experience keeps it fresh.”
Any new label stuff going on…?
“I had my own label but right now I’m more involved in writing a book, producing a film and producing the music for the film. There’s the Nicky Siano podcast available once a week on iTunes or on my web site, nickysiano.com…’LOVE IS THE MESSAGE’ the movie shot at my club THE GALLERY is due out shortly, and will be available when I am at the weekender.”
What do you see as your greatest musical career highlights so far?
“Building the club THE GALLERY that almost every club till today has used for it’s blueprint. And also being the first DJ to build bass horns and a crossover. Then there’s introducing Grace Jones to the NY disco scene and introducing Larry Levan to the turntables. Finally being the first DJ to produce a record.”
What was your first break in music and first big record? Did it set you on your path?
“My first break was getting my first residency in 1971 at a club called The Roundtable. My first record ‘KISS ME AGAIN’ was the biggest record I did. My path has never been straightforward, I have many interests. I’ve written an AIDS manual that was released by Bantam Books in 1993, I’ve written many articles for publication and I’m currently working on a memoir. I enjoy writing, I also enjoy movies and television and am hoping to move in the direction of TV writing.”
How and when were you first infected by dance music? What was the first record you ever bought or earliest musical memory?
“Very early on I went dancing at the LOFT in 1971…and that was it. I bought ‘RAIN’ by Dorothy Morrison and was possessed by that record! I had to have it, or I couldn’t sleep at night. After that my first musical obsession was Laura Nyro, and her concept album, ‘ ELI AND THE THIRTEENTH CONFESSION’.”
Who is the most inspirational and influential person in your life and why?
“DJ David Rodriguez – he was my DJ mentor and stayed with me when I first started playing, and gave me the confidence to do what I do. But only recently I began to understand that it wasn’t ME, BUT through me, and that was the biggest breakthrough.”
And before you leave us, can you tell us something you think we should all be listening to before we head out the door to SSW3?
“Every Saturday THE NICKY SIANO PODCAST weekly on iTunes, nickysiano.com, soundcloud and funcshn.com.”
Nicky Siano headlines at SSW3 taking place from Friday November 1st thought to Sunday November 3rd at The Cairndale Hotel, Dumfries, alongside the legendary Jocelyn Brown singing Live DJ Pierre, DJ Spinna, Oliver Cheatham Live, Motor City Drum Ensemble, LTJ Xperience, Atjazz, Horsemeat Disco, Fish Go Deep, Lovebirds, Groove Assassin and over 60 DJ’s and Artists.
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