DMC World Magazine

Miami 2012 – Kaz James

Superstar DJ getting set for an amazing year

We know that the WMC is more about profile and the party rather than business deals, is it the most important date on the dance calendar still?  

“I think that WMC is definitley a very important event on the dance calendar.   It’s hard to determine which event is most important. However it’s especially relevant now that America has taken notice of dance music.”

As thousands of next generation clubbers descend on the big events, do you feel the spirit of house music is being lost to a crowd looking for that instant anthem hit?

“I feel at certain moments this has been the case but like most things they have their ups and downs. However the meaning of house music has broadened in terms of its style. People now call anything with a four to the floor beat house music. I believe a true house crowd is always looking for a journey, rather than an instant hit.”

Have you had to change your musical direction in the last year?

“I’m always changing my musical direction in one-way or another. I’m always looking for that next big thing that keeps my sound cutting edge.”

Is Miami loosing its trademark cool and sexy house music vibe?

“I don’t feel this is the case. It all depends where you go and what your into.”

What are your thoughts on the Dennis Ferrer ‘Mansion’ Miami club story – he was basically kicked off the decks for not playing commercial enough?  

“I wasn’t there so I can’t really comment, as I don’t know the full story.  However a DJ should always be booked for what style their known for.”

With clubs and charts being dominated by dance music worldwide, shouldn’t we be rejoicing it’s success rather than being bitter with crossover?

“I think we should take it as a positive rather than a negative. For years people in the industry have complained that the dance scene wasn’t taken serious enough, or didn’t receive enough attention. All success is positive, even if it cross’ into the mainstream.”

The party you looking forward to the most?  

“I’m looking forward to the Pacha Ibiza party at the Shelborne. It’s always an amazing party as it’s a little taste of what’s installed for the upcoming season in Ibiza.”

What are your Buzz tracks for WMC 2012? 

“There are always new tunes that blow up during Miami.  I have my debut single “kids” coming out from my forth-coming album, and the response so far has been very positive…  So keep a look out!  Its available March 26th on i-tunes Beat Port, all good record shops, and some shit ones too!”

Have you noticed a big dip in industry folk not attending these last couple of years?

“Maybe in the past, however since America has taken notice of the dance scene it has made Miami conference very relevant.  A few years back I think it was just a good excuse to party. Now it’s not only about the partying, but a lot of record executives, managers, agents and promoters are making business deals.”

What are you looking forward to at IMS this year?

“I’m looking forward to hearing Niles Rogers talk at this years IMS.  I saw Chic a few nights ago for my third time and they always blow my mind. He is such a legend who has written so much amazing music over years, I can’t wait to hear his stories!”

What are your plans for Ibiza 2012?

“In Ibiza this Summer I have some amazing shows coming up at Pacha. I’m there nearly every week playing at different parties like “Its All Gone Pete Tong” and “F*** Me I’m Famous”.  Like I said, I have a lot of new singles coming out followed by an album. Ibiza has such a diverse crowd from all over the globe, so it’s a great place to showcase my new music.”