Better Living Through Sound...

Since my last post, I've had a lot of stuff happen.

It doesn't bear any further mention, mainly because it's unneeded drama in my life. We all have it, so there's no need to dwell on it.

I want to talk about the one constant in my life that got me, and continues to get me through it.

Music.

I'm a DJ for many reasons. I like the hours. Arranging music as a narrative is a challenge, and a joy. I like the energy generated between me and a switched on crowd who get what I'm trying to do.

Mainly, I do it because it keeps me sane.

I respect that other people work jobs they may not necessarily like. That takes courage, patience, and selflessness beyond any comprehension.

I have to be honest with myself in order to live, and I don't have that level of compromise in me anymore. This is who I am, and this is not just a career choice. This is a part of me, an extension.

I'm not trying to make some suffering artist/martyr manifesto. I want to work steady, pull down a reasonable paycheck, and live a good life. I just want to do it as a DJ.

I am just as dedicated to my work as a doctor, or a plumber, or a mechanic. As far as I'm concerned, I'm a blue-collar guy putting in an honest day's work. I don't want to be a superstar producer/DJ. There's too many of those people in the business anyway.

I'm more than happy to take the opening slots, the support slots, the B/C/D List afterparties, the fashion shows, the company parties where everyone dances badly (and drunkenly) to Poker Face.

If the superstar thing happens, great. Still all good if it doesn't.

I have discovered the real reason behind it. Do what you love. You'll be a much happier person for it.

Fresh For 2012...You SUCKAS!!!

Hello and welcome.

I decided to create a blog, not because I feel a need to talk about politics, but for the sheer simple joy of sharing my mixes and talking about the DJs, musicians, people, and cultural movements that influence what I do.

OK, it's also about some politics too.

The politics of how music can unite us and let us know we're not alone.

Enough pontification. Enjoy the music.

The first mix is part of my 'Herb N' Renewal' series. I made these mixes, because like many people, I enjoy marijuana. I love listening to music when I'm stoned. I wanted to create mixes that fellow heads could enjoy and take them on a mental voyage.

So dig 'The Red-Eye District.' And burn one for me....

Herb N' Renewal:The Red-Eye District