Introducing… DJ Comrade

When, how and why did you start DJing? I was 16 years old and heavily into reggae music. Back then, the only way you could really get the hottest stuff was to get it on vinyl. So we’d head up to Brooklyn and pick up the latest 45’s fresh from Jamaica. I used to just make mix-tapes for myself and my crew, which led to house parties, local venues, college radio, etc. Why? Have you every made a bunch of people shake their butts all night? It’s a great feeling.

What kind of music do you spin? Nowadays I perform my own mash up/remixes live on the MPD [mini drum machine]. It’s a mix of Baile funk, hip-hop, dancehall, Miami bass, kuduro, electro thing. However, my crates are deep… lots of reggae, samba, funk, hip-hop, salsa, cumbia, reggaeton etc.  I got a banging 80’s set as well… as any DJ should.

Laptop vs. vinyl? I prefer vinyl, but I can’t do what I do without a laptop.

Current obsessions/addictions: My Akai MPD (midi drum machine), herb, and baile funk, of course.

What’s your Brazil connection? Personally, I was expanding my search for global beats, and a particular track caught my attention on a compilation of Brazilian music.  As soon as I heard the the swing of the tamborzão, the broken beats and, of course, the raw vocals of funk carioca, I was hooked.  I’ve been addicted ever since. But Brazil in general, that’s where it’s at… they really know how to party… so that’s where you’re going to hear some of the craziest beats/sounds.  Also, the funkeiros (followers of funk carioca) are extremely open and have been some of the friendliest artists/people I’ve worked with. I’ve been fortunate to have played in Brazil a few times as well (at the Tim Festival- Rio de Janeiro 2007, and at Toy Lounge with Zuzuka Poderosa in Sao Paulo – 2008).

How do funkeiros react to a gringo being so involved in their scene? Some just think we’re crazy…some remain cautious… which is expected.  Most likely because they have to be weary of “Cultural Conquistadors” looking to exploit the music/artists… without ever giving due credit, royalties etc… which is not uncommon in this game… even in Brazil.  But for the most part, they’ve greeted us (myself) with open arms… especially the Funkeiros who see the benefit of exporting Funk to the world, in order to help the movement/genre expand its fan base to a global market.  Keep in mind, a lot of these artists live day to day, show to show, each night, and most of the smaller artists I know never get paid at all. But once they see you are a genuine lover of the music/scene, and are contributing, not thieving, it’s all good.  Over the years, I’ve become close with a few MCs/DJs down there… we chat everyday, and they’re the nicest people in the world.