The insulting riches of Bangkok’s party scene exist thanks in no small part to the army of DJs who organize, promote and rock the living hell out of the city’s nightlife. In “Hang the DJ,” Coconuts gives you a chance to get acquainted with some of the capital’s better beatsmiths.
How did you get into DJ-ing?
I was introduced to DJing in 1998 through hip hop, when my neighbor and my brother bought some cheap turntables and mixers. I was a basketball player and I was more into R ‘n B and rap culture back then. I practiced at home and tried to make a good transition with two vinyls and got some technical practice by scratching. After that, I started to get into house and techno music again by my brother. I’ve since tried to find my own style in house music.
Describe the music you play in five words.
Soulful afro beat and deep house [Ummm…five? –ed.]
What’s the most fun you’ve ever had at a gig? Give us all the ugly details.
The most fun I got was long time ago – in 2000 approximately. I was playing for a party in Virgin Café in France on the French National Day, July 14. The DJ booth was plugged in outside near a dock of the Dunkerque Harbor. The party was amazing and I had a drummer playing with me. It was a special experience as a DJ to try to make all these people dance. Everything was crazy and some people were having such a good time that they dipped into the sea at sunrise.
What’s your favorite venue to play in Bangkok? Why?
Tapas is one of my favorite venues because they play some very soulful music there. Customers have an open mind and they come from various nationalities, both Thai and foreigner. They really care for underground music. I made a party last week with KEMF there and it was packed and crazy. Tapas is a nice place for underground.
Which track are you most excited about right now?
“Sometimes” – Timmy Regisford ft. Tiger Wilson. It’s a real soulful track.
Dubstep: yea or nay?
Not.
“ ______ always packs the dance floor.”
Richie Hawtin
What’s one song you will never, ever play?
I will never play a song I’ve never heard. For example metal, hardcore, trance – I won’t ever make music without groove.
What’s the best way for someone to get you to play their request?
If you’re in the club and if music is too loud, write the request on your phone and show it to the DJ.
What shows/residencies do you have lined up?
I’m a resident at Oskar Bistro on Sukhumvit 11, Gossip on Thong Lor 15, the French Tuesday events in Bangkok and the KEMF parties. Very soon, I’ll also be doing the Soulmates party for my mate Simon Joy.
