The MC DJs just die for
What has been your favourite EVER DMC Final?
“The Teams in 1999, Perverts vs The Allies. Personally, Craze and co. gave such an amazing performance in terms of technique and style, it was the breakthrough in Team showcases, in my opinion.”
Best Hip Hop record ever made?
“Eric B & Rakim ‘Know The Ledge’ – the ultimate Hip Hop tune.”
What is your guilty record tune?
“Lol ..,too many. But for consistant playing over the years – Shannon “Let The Music Play'”
You have spoken your words with the likes of Pharrell Williams, Prince and Justin Timberlake – who have you been the most proudest to perform with?
“Out of the three? I wud say Prince, to which I thank my good friend Nikka Costa. Generally tho, I’m proudest when I’m up on stage with my boys, givin it some. My crew inspire me a lot.”
What do you think is the greatest attribution DMC has brought the DJ world over the last 25 years?
“Giving talented musicians a platform to move on to greater things. NO DJ can front on that, not even me…”
What is the maddest fancy dress outfit you ever worn?
“A cow outfit, on stage for Halloween in New York 2004. When in Rome…”
This week sees your new album ‘Amplified’ on 100% Records – your third studio album – people think this is your most greatest – some really cool guests checking in, James Rushent, Alan Braxe, Hadouken! and Lateef – plus legendary Human League producer Martin Rushent – what are the highlights for you?
“I love the bridging of styles, genres and musicians from all over the world, that’s bin’ dope. But above all I think about the platform these people have given me to showcase all I can do… Beatbox/vocally, songwriting or otherwise – I’m really excited by throwin it out there.”
Right, it’s your wedding – what is the first record you dance to with your wife?
“He-he Dan…’Wonderful Tonight’ by Eric Clapton maybe? Eh, you know what, I’d let my wife choose actually”.
What icon in the music world, switched you onto this world?
“DJ Vadim switched me on to everything.”
Best ever club/festival gig?
“The Notting Hill Arts Club has to be one of my fav spots to hang out at. I foookin’ love it!”
What MCs over the past 20 years have you got respect for?
“Estelle actually. Er, also Jay-Z, Busta, Pharoahe Monch, skibbadee, Lil Wayne, Kanye, Wiley for his musical contribution.. Big Daddy Kane, Rahzel, Black Thought, Outkast all over.”
We see you are hosting the “Super Jam” at this year’s DMC 25th Anniversary World Finals alongside with World Champions Q-Bert, Fly, Rob Swift, Switch, Shiftee + the newly crowned champs, excited?
“Hell yeah, it’s gonna be dope…I’ve no idea what’s gonna happen so it should be interesting…”
Who is gonna win DMC 25?
“Haven’t a clue! I haven’t seen the line up. It’s all about how people perform on the night, so I reserve all judgement.”
And finally please give DMC a message of love for pioneering this amazing artform we have…
“Thank you for pioneering real, competitive athleticism in music. And opening doors for Hip Hop DJs around the world.”
