Nikki Beach getting ready for a Juicy roadblock
We know that these days WMC is more about profile, being seen there and the party rather than business deals. Is it the most important date on the dance calendar still?
“It is still very important to perform and hang during Miami Music Week. An artist has to have some presence during a week where 100,000+ fans gather in just one city.”
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?
“Very good question. Right now the audience is kind of obsessed with hearing the songs and tracks they know or listen to in the radio every day. They seldom allow the DJ to be creative take and them on a journey anymore. It is frustrating because I want to do my thing and I notice the lack of interest if they don”t recognize the track . It has to be an anthem. It kinda sucks because it’s all about taking risks and being original in this job and sometimes it is perceived as crappy DJing. Kids nowadays need to relax and let the DJs do their job. It also depends on what club and city you are playing. For example when I play Space in Miami, I can get very creative but when I play high end clubs like Liv, Mansion or XS in Las Vegas, I do a mix of underground and commercial (not what’s playing on the radio but anthem-like tracks) so everybody is happy. I am an entertainer so I like to please everybody. I also produce my own underground as well as commercial tracks so it is easy for me.”
Have you had to change your musical direction in the last year?
“No. I do like to stay current so I evolve and change my sound a bit but I always stay true to the Juicy sound.(tough, sexy house music).”
Is Miami losing it’s trademark cool and sexy house music vibe?
“Not at all. Miami is amazing to party and go clubbing. There are many different clubs that bring DJs with various styles.”
What are your thoughts on the Dennis Ferrer ‘Mansion’ Miami club story?
“As far as the story goes and what I have learned through the press, he was basically kicked off the decks for not playing commercial enough. If this is true, it is plain messed up and disrespectful. The club promoter should know what type of DJ they are booking. You can always research their latest tracks so you know their style. On the other hand, as a seasoned DJ myself, I believe one has to please and read the the audience because you are getting paid to entertain. Of course, this is fine as long as you do not compromise your style much. There is nothing wrong wanting to educate clubbers to new styles. I try to do this myself as well but, it has to be done creatively so you don’t kill the vibe. This comes with years of experience. I must say, however, that clubbers are tough and many are not open to new sounds or styles. They just want o hear what they know, all the time. Times have changed and it is quite tough for a DJ to please all.”
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 am very happy with dance music crossing over but major labels and radio need to support more artists not just the same guys. I thought that was the purpose of radio, to help showcase artists and their music, not to just play it safe. It gets boring and repetitive. They are bringing their own industry down because people get bored with the looping playlists and resort to podcasts and online radio stations.”
The party you looking forward to the most?
“Juicy Beach at Nikki Beach! The vibe on this party is awesome.”
What are your Buzz tracks for WMC 2012?
“Dero, Stefano Pain Vs Marcel – Retweet – Juicy Music.
Juanjo Martin – Roads – Juicy Music
Robbie Rivera feat Jes -Turn it Around”
Have you noticed a big dip in industry folk not attending these last couple of years?
“Yes, I have noticed this. I see the same people every year.”
What are your thoughts on the IMS in Ibiza? Will you be attending?
“I was a panelist on the first IMS. I think it is a proper conference the way WMC used to be 10 years ago. I will not be attending this year as I am touring.”
www.robbierivera.com
