Paths of Rhythm (Formerly Once A DJ)

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

Barry Beats Instagram (via Si Spex): https://www.instagram.com/sispex/

Barry Beats Bandcamp (via Si Spex): https://barrybeatsakasispex.bandcamp.com/

Barry Beats YouTube (Via Si Spex): https://www.youtube.com/@Sispex

Once A DJ links: https://linktree.com/onceadj

Summary

In this conversation, Barry Beats discusses his journey into beat making, his experience creating a live cut and paste mix, and his latest project, the Ultimate Fakes compilations. He emphasizes the importance of finding your own sound and enjoying the process of music making. Barry also shares advice for DJs who want to start making their own beats and discusses his YouTube channel and upcoming Patreon plans.

Takeaways

• Find your own sound and enjoy the process of music making.
• Experiment with different techniques and technologies to create unique beats.
• Take inspiration from your favorite producers and study their processes.
• Consider limitations as a creative tool and embrace the power of simplicity.
• Support independent artists and explore sample packs and compilations.
• Join online communities and platforms like YouTube and Patreon to connect with fellow musicians and share your work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:50 Getting Started in Beat Making

09:06 Creating a Live Cut and Paste Mix

15:06 Planning and Recording the Mix

24:52 Ultimate Fakes Compilations

31:51 Advice for DJs Starting to Make Beats

39:16 Barry Beats' YouTube Channel and Patreon

44:07 Conclusion

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

This week we get into it with Si Spex of UKHH pioneers The Creators, about growing up in Cornwall and getting into hip hop, early DJing experiences, college and university, meeting Julian and Johnny F, and exposure to library music. Si Spex discusses his journey in music production and DJing, including his time with High Wicking, equipment acquisition, DJing in High Wycombe and London, working with MCM and The Rats, signing with Blindside Records and releasing the Master Plan EP, signing with Wall of Sound and collaborating with American artists, and the mix with Plus One and DJing. In this conversation, Si Spex discusses his transition to the internet age, selling records in America, his day job and DJing, adapting to commercial DJing, enjoyment and feedback in DJing, balancing DJing and a day job, working at a music distribution company, recreating the sound of old records, motivation and belief in his musical potential, advancements in music technology, and investing time and efficiency.

Takeaways

Growing up in Cornwall presented challenges in getting into hip hop, but the passion remained strong.

Early DJing experiences helped shape the DJ's skills and confidence.

College and university provided opportunities to study graphic design and illustration.

Meeting Julian and Johnny F led to a deep friendship and shared love for music.

Exposure to library music opened up new possibilities for sampling and production. Si Spex started his music production journey with High Wicking and acquired equipment such as samplers and sequencers.

He DJed in High Wycombe and London, including at The Attic, and formed connections with local music people.

Si Spex and Julian formed The Rats and released a few 12-inch records.

They signed with Blindside Records and released the Master Plan EP, which received positive reception.

Si Spex and Julian signed with Wall of Sound and collaborated with American artists, expanding their reach.

Si Spex continued DJing during this time, playing at various venues and events. The internet revolutionized the music industry, making it easier to communicate and sell records.

Si Spex transitioned from selling records in America to working a day job and DJing.

He adapted to commercial DJing and focused on playing music that pleased the crowd.

Si Spex enjoys DJing and values feedback from the audience.

He balances his DJing career with his day job at a music distribution company.

Si Spex is passionate about recreating the sound of old records and using advancements in music technology.

He stays motivated by believing in his musical potential and investing his time efficiently.

Chapters

04:33

Growing Up in Cornwall and Getting into Hip Hop

08:04

Early DJing Experiences

21:22

College and University

29:59

Meeting Julian and Johnny F

36:38

Exposure to Library Music

40:34

Formation of High Wicking and Equipment Acquisition

48:32

DJing in High Wycombe and London

52:23

Working with MCM and The Rats

56:45

Signing with Blindside Records and Releasing the Master Plan EP

01:05:09

Signing with Wall of Sound and Collaborating with American Artists

01:14:37

The Mix with Plus One and DJing

01:19:59

Transition to the Internet Age

01:20:52

Selling Records in America

01:21:36

Transition to Day Job and DJing

01:24:17

Adapting to Commercial DJing

01:26:34

Enjoyment and Feedback in DJing

01:29:37

Balancing DJing and Day Job

01:30:42

Working at a Music Distribution Company

01:34:17

Recreating the Sound of Old Records

01:37:42

Motivation and Belief in Musical Potential

01:41:31

Advancements in Music Technology

01:43:19

Investing Time and Efficiency

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

This week we sit with Kiss FM hip hop/R&B legend DJ & remixer (and now  @lovethingldn  podcaster) Swerve to look at both the many opportunities that his DJ career has brought him, and the people who have helped and supported him along the way.

Summary

In this episode of the Once A DJ Podcast, DJ Swerve shares his journey in the DJing world. He talks about his early interest in DJing and scratching, starting with pause tapes and eventually getting his first mixer. He discusses his love for hip hop and the influence of artists like Public Enemy. DJ Swerve also shares his experiences gigging out, joining VIP Sound and the Starlight Crew, and participating in the DMC competition. He talks about his transition to full-time DJing, joining Kiss FM, and touring with the Pure Hip Hop albums. Adam Gow discusses his music collections, recording hip hop compilations, the politics of compilation albums, funny road trip stories, touring with Mystique, and transitioning from radio to Love Thing London. He also shares his thoughts on the future of radio and DJing.

Takeaways

- Compilation albums involve a lot of politics and negotiations with record labels.

- Touring with artists can lead to memorable experiences and encounters with other musicians.

- Transitioning from radio to other ventures can provide new opportunities for growth and creativity.

- The future of radio lies in creating unique and engaging content that offers a sense of community and connection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Once A DJ Podcast

02:15 Early Interest in DJing and Scratching

04:43 Pause Tapes and First Mixer

08:31 Getting Second Turntable and Mixer

09:30 Introduction to Hip Hop and DJing for Friends

11:31 Influence of Public Enemy and Hip Hop Culture

13:25 Making Mixtapes and DJing for Parties

15:22 Gigging Out and DJing for Bucks

18:59 Getting Turntables and Joining VIP Sound

20:49 DJing at Soul Nights and Joining Starlight Crew

22:11 Participating in DMC Competition

25:00 Experience in DMC and Influential DJs

28:47 DJing for Soul Nights and Joining Kiss FM

31:39 Transitioning to Full-Time DJing

38:50 DJing on Kiss FM and Life-Changing Opportunity

45:57 Transitioning from Day Job to Full-Time DJing

49:22 Touring with Kiss and Pure Hip Hop Albums

51:18 Adam Gow's Music Collections

52:31 Recording the Hip Hop Compilation

53:27 The Politics of Compilation Albums

54:54 Working with Warner's and Shorty

55:23 Choosing Songs for Compilations

56:20 Road Trips and Funny Stories

57:49 Secret Party Spots

58:10 Glasgow Gig and DJ Swerve

59:18 Passport Troubles and Taiwan Gig

01:00:44 Touring with Mystique

01:01:38 Working with Live Bands

01:03:06 Music Directors and Live Bands

01:04:05 Memorable Gigs and Tours

01:06:40 Transitioning from Radio to Love Thing London

01:10:57 Transitioning from Kiss to Love Thing London

01:11:26 The Future of Radio and DJing

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

In this conversation, Brandon Block discusses his journey as a DJ, his struggles with addiction, and his path to recovery. He shares insights into the early days of DJing in Ibiza and the impact of fame and notoriety. Brandon also emphasizes the importance of self-care and the need to detox from technology. He highlights his work in mental health advocacy and the creation of support networks for those seeking help. In this conversation, Brandon shares his journey of personal growth and how it led him to help others. The importance of mental health and self-awareness is discussed, highlighting the need to prioritize our well-being. Finding balance in life and setting authentic goals are emphasized as key factors in achieving personal fulfillment. The conversation also touches on the power of DJing and meditation in promoting self-discovery and presence.

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

Bronx hip hop legend Danny Dan The Beat Mann (FACEBOOK // INSTAGRAM) joins Adam to discuss his lifelong passion for vinyl and wide-ranging musical tastes influenced by his diverse family background. He shares stories of digging for records and producing his acclaimed "Dusty Fingers" series. Danny explains his approach to curating and mastering obscure funk, soul and jazz records, and why sound quality matters. He also reflects on the early hip hop scene in New York, working with producer Biz Markie, and coming back to DJing after years focused on production. Lovers of cratedigging and hip hop history won't want to miss this!

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

In the final part of this 3-part series, Peter Parker continues to open up about his life journey, including struggling with loss of self-esteem and depression. He discusses reconnecting with music projects and friends that helped pull him out of a self-destructive period. Peter also shares being diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety as an adult and the self-work he has done to better understand himself and integrate those aspects of who he is. He talks about appearing in a Russian documentary film that was difficult for him to watch at first but ultimately helped build his confidence back. Peter emphasizes the importance of community and describes how he has been able to tap back into his passion for DJing and music by connecting with supportive friends old and new. He seems to now have greater self-awareness and resilience to cope with setbacks. Ultimately, Peter conveys being in a positive place where he feels aligned with his purpose and excited about current and future creative projects.

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

In Part 2 of this monster interview with Peter Parker, we go through the development and releases of Fingathing, and how a strong bond was formed which went way beyond just guys in a band. We go through the good times, into what unravelled into a dark period in Dan’s life.

As you heard there, this second sitting of the interview kind of ended at an appropriate time to align with the end of act 2 of Dan’s tale. We’ll be back with you in a week or so for the final instalment of the Peter Parker story. Until then take care and you’ll hear from me soon.

Reach Dan on his instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danpeterparkerbaxter/

Fingathing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialfingathing/

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

This episode follows Dan Baxter AKA Fingathing's Peter Parker's journey from a bedroom turntablist to touring internationally with big names in music. He describes growing up immersed in music and developing a passion for hip-hop DJing and battling. After competing in DJ competitions, he catches the attention of producer Mark Rae who invites him to collaborate. Dan joins touring bands, impresses crowds with his scratching skills, and travels the world DJing while still in his early 20s. He reflects on grasping sudden opportunities and figuring out his musical identity on the fly. The episode is a candid look at the rapid rise of a turntable talent.

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

In this raw and candid interview, iconic drum & bass DJ and producer DJ Rap shares her journey through her early years into discovering the rave scene, and how it helped her to move past some early traumas, both providing her solace, and simultaneously planting the seeds for her pioneering career. She discusses becoming one of the biggest female DJs in the male-dominated jungle and drum & bass scene and smashing boundaries, as well as the non-stop hustle required to balance music production, DJ gigs, running a record label and community, and constantly learning new skills. DJ Rap also reflects with honesty on the personal sacrifices she's made over her decades-long career, including forgoing marriage and children. An intimate look into the life of this legendary artist.

Find out more at https://www.djrap.com

0:00 - DJing and drum and bass with a legendary DJ and producer.

1:48 - Nomadic upbringing and cultural exposure in boarding schools.

4:51 - Childhood experiences, bullying, and family dynamics.

8:22 - Family struggles and personal growth.

11:49 - Parental neglect and trauma in childhood.

14:42 - Overcoming childhood trauma and healing.

19:04 - Music, piano training, and career in dance music.

23:28 - Trauma, abuse, and self-discovery in the rave scene.

27:16 - Raves, drug use, and DJing in the 1990s.

32:01 - Early days of female DJing and production.

35:36 - Sexism in the electronic music scene.

39:17 - Experiences in the early days of electronic music.

43:42 - Early days in drum and bass music and creative process.

47:52 - Music production philosophy and industry experiences.

51:57 - Reflecting on the evolution of drum and bass music.

56:23 - DJing, technology, and personal preferences.

1:00:32 - Stage presence and performance.

1:04:13 - DJing, music, and intimacy with the crowd.

1:08:28 - Artist struggles with streaming platforms.

1:13:05 - Learning from mistakes in the music industry.

1:16:04 - Music career, retirement, and return to drum and bass.

1:20:45 - Career resurgence after 22 years in music.

1:25:19 - Managing workload and building community.

1:29:24 - Work-life balance as a musician.

Paths of Rhythm is brought to you with support from vinylunderground.co.uk - take 10% off your next order with the code POR10 and free UK shipping on orders over £100

Paths of Rhythm is a Remote-CTRL production. If you're looking for audio or video production, then check out https://remote-ctrl.co.uk to see how they can help.

Other ways to support the show

• Follow the show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• Any feedback or questions? Hit up https://www.instagram.com/pathsofrhythmpodcast/

Journey through the vibrant history of DJ culture, soundscapes, and electronic evolution with Paul Noble, founder of London's iconic Spiritland. From spinning records in the early '90s to his deep dive into high-end audio systems and community-driven club concepts, Paul lays it all on the deck. Tap into his insights on the UK music scene, personal anecdotes, and his latest ventures. Whether you’re a die-hard audiophile or a curious music lover, this episode's got something for your ears!

To find out more about Spiritland, head to https://spiritland.com/