@DJDeanMichaels

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR

2011-06-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing a lot people complain about the party scene lately and how it really has gone down hill. So, as a person who has been in this for most of his life and has seen some of the best and worst times, I’m going to give you a little crash course of why this is happening.

There’s been a lot of DJ's saying that the game is messed up because all these new “DJ’s” went out, bought laptops, and are going to clubs playing for free or pretty close to it. Now I have nothing against new DJ’s. I was one and I support anyone trying to get into this game. But there are dues that need to be payed and skills that need to be established before a DJ is ready to play a certain venue. If I buy a basketball, I’m not ready to play in the NBA. Now if I played in middle school, high school, college, semi pro, then NBA, I’d be ready. Same goes for clubs. In my eyes, night clubs should be like the NBA in regards to the talent. They used to be and now they are not even close. Club owners, who most of the time don’t pay attention to the music, and really just care about one thing, money, except this poor quality and in turn hire these guys because they feel it’s more important to save a couple hundred dollars then it is to have a good night.

Recently, I went out to this really big club at the Hard Rock in Hollywood, FL. No need to say the name, but it was one of the 20 they have there. Place was packed. It’s always packed. When I go out, I usually go into the rooms and hear how the DJ’s are, look and listen to the crowd reaction. There was a lot of disappointment. People were literally saying, “This DJ is horrible.” How does no one notice? The DJ in the booth looks down, sees a packed crowd, sees people dancing, and is thinking, yeah I’m rocking this party. This is also what his friend, that is standing next to him at the booth, is telling him the whole time, and after and every time he’s hanging out with him. We call it “Gassing” him up. The owner, who is sitting in the back room, sound proof office, or at his house, does not care what people are feeling like or how bad the DJ just train wrecked the last mix. They, at the end of the night, collect, count, and check their numbers and money. They are business men, not music experts. Now a location like the Hard Rock will always be busy. It’s a tourist spot with nice venues and no matter what the DJ plays people are going to dance to it. Why? Because they have no other option. When I went to this place, it was my friends birthday. There was over 20 people and we had about 5-6 bottles. Like the music or not, we’re dancing. This is the same scenario all over the club. There’s a thousand people there. You just waited on line, payed to get in, bought drinks, or bought a table. There is no way you are leaving because of the music, which might not be horrible, but definitely not what this type of club should deliver.

So what happens when you have a club that isn’t at the Hard Rock and is a smaller venue that has to fight a little harder to get and keep their crowd? People come to your place, they have a drink or two, maybe even party all night. Then walk out and say, well it’s nice there but the music was really bad. So as a venue, you might get the customer to come out again. You could have good drink specials or free admission, and they’ll come hoping that maybe it was just a bad DJ that time. Low and behold it wasn’t and the music is bad again. So this time that they came out, would be their last. This pattern continues and spreads throughout your crowd. Your numbers start going down, you think its promoters, or the nights, or the bartenders, management, security, and no one thinks of the obvious. The MUSIC.

There are only two reasons why people go to clubs. To drink and to dance. Yes, to meet people, but it’s while you’re drinking and dancing. There are only two people that can service those needs. Bartender, for the drinks, and DJ, for the music. Have hot bartenders that serve good drinks and DJ’s that play good music and your venue will be successful. Throughout my career I’ve worked in all types of venues. I’ve seen dive bars that have had parties last for 10 years and million dollar clubs last for 6 months. Why? Drinks and Music. The DJ is the most important part of the night. Period. No matter what the venue is, for the most part, if the music is good, people are staying and drinking. That is the goal. This is a business. It’s entertainment, but still a business. Take sports. You can have the best arena, free parking, gifts when you walk in, discounts on food, promotions, marketing campaigns, and be in the heart of the city. But in the end, fans do not go to games when the team is loosing or when the players are not exciting to watch. It’s that simple. Or is it?

How do clubs not realize that their music is bad? Again, usually there is one person that makes that decision and that’s the guy that never listens to the music or is worried more about counting the register, staff, bills, and everything else besides what’s being played. It’s not only the club owners fault. Sometimes the owner understands he/she has no idea about music, so they hire someone to run that department. Great. Unless, the person you hire to run your music was a successful DJ, who was successful for playing the types of genres needed for your venue, that person will just hire either his friends or other DJ’s that play similar to his style which didn’t work when he use to play it and still doesn’t work now. You don’t hire an Asian chef to run the kitchen in your Italian restaurant.

Point is this. People need to stop excepting this low quality. If a DJ is bad, tell the owner, tell the manager, and complain about the music. Find DJ’s that you do like. Follow them, support them, request them. They are your team. You need to know that when you go out, Your DJ will make sure that you are dancing, drinking, meeting people, and having a good time all night. Yes, Your DJ is very important, so do not except any lower standards. You wouldn’t do it if you had a business and a bad employee, if you went to a restaurant and had a bad chef, or if you had a team with a bad player. Club owners, you too, have to stop excepting low quality. There are plenty of great DJ’s out there and yes they do cost money. With everything, you get what you pay for. Do your research, pay attention, ask your crowd and staff. Because in the end the MUSIC will make or break your night.

Follow me on Twitter @DJDeanMichaels

STEREO LAB - SURIN BEACH, PHUKET THAILAND

2011-05-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

One of the final nights, for the April tour in Phuket, was at the beautiful beachside lounge Stereo Lab. Resident DJ Tommy T and myself went on a full on head to head house battle. All great fun. The crowd was enjoying every second. It’s great to link up with DJ’s that you can just walk in the booth, connect, and put on a successful show. Looking forward to returning for Round 2!

RECAP OF FAMOUS NIGHTCLUB - PHUKET, THAILAND

2011-04-25T17:25:00.000-07:00

VIDEO RECAP OF RESIDENCY AT FAMOUS NIGHTCLUB- PHUKET THAILAND. ENJOY!

FULL MOON PARTY @ FAMOUS NIGHTCLUB - PHUKET, THAILAND

2011-04-22T06:44:00.000-07:00

Every month in Thailand there is a night where the Full Moon is the largest and brightest and every month they celebrate with some of the biggest parties on the island. Famous Nightclub was definitely the place be. Ending my two week residency, this party was a great send off. I had a pleasure playing for this venue. The staff and crowd were both welcoming and I will be back very soon.

SATURDAY NIGHT @ FAMOUS NIGHTCLUB - PHUKET, THAILAND

2011-04-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

After coming off a great week continuing my residency at Famous Nightclub, we close the Thai New Years with a packed Saturday night. The crowd is highly international and loved every second.

SCOTT EDDY'S BIRTHDAY BASH @ FAMOUS NIGHTCLUB - PHUKET, THAILAND

2011-04-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

Besides being Sokran, Thai New Years, which included a massive all day water fight throughout the streets of Thailand, the other big party was for my good friend, business partner, and Twitter King @MrScottEddy- Follow him! This night was not only packed but also some good fun with friends. I had the pleasure of tag teaming the DJ booth with Asia’s #1 Female DJ Celeste Siam. She was rockin the house, I was on the hip hop, and the crowd was on their feet! We made a great team and we’re currently setting up a future tour together. Look out for this one! Big thanks to one of the best GM’s in the biz, Tal Derhy, for putting the night together.

BIKER WEEK @ FAMOUS NIGHTCLUB- PHUKET, THAILAND

2011-04-21T19:01:00.000-07:00

We kicked off the week at, one of Phukets largest venues, Famous Nightclub with a Biker Bash! Throughout Thailand, if you have a motorcycle you’re driving it down and showing it off all over Phuket. The night was a big success and leather was everywhere! After testing my first Thai crowd, and receiving a great welcome, I was excited for the upcoming events.

WELCOME TO THAILAND, MY NEW HOME

2011-04-11T04:41:00.000-07:00

After spending the past 3 years in Miami, I get a phone call from my business partner / International Manager @MrScottEddy, currently living in Phuket, Thailand. Pack your bags...you’re coming to Thailand. Just coming off of WMC and Ultra week down in Miami, my weekly residencies, and high-end private event business booming, I asked myself...am I able to leave everything and go 10,000 miles across the world to a place I’ve never been? After 13 years in this business, I realized one thing, when opportunity knocks you better answer cause you might not get it again. The only hesitation was am I able to get into the country. Coming off of last months situation that happened to me in London, when I got denied at the border and sent back, forced to cancel my tour, I was not about to travel 25 hrs to the other side of the world to turn around again. I was assured that immigration at Phuket Airport is a little more welcoming the Heathrow, London. I arrived 5 days ago and already my life has changed. First, Thailand is an all around beautiful place if not one the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. From the amazing scenery, delicious food, to the inexpensive living and warm peaceful people. You fall in love from the minute you step foot here. But down to the real reason for the venture and that is work...or should I say play. Currently, we are working out the final details for my Asian tour, featuring places such as Macao, Singapore, Dubai, Australia, Malayasia, Hong Kong, and Bangkok. I’m excited to travel around Asia, but more excited to play some of the top venues in the world and share my music with cultures I’ve never explored before. As an artist, or someone that has a creative talent, you constantly want to grow and develop. I’m trying to be worldwide with my business and to be worldwide you need to be accessible to the world. There’s a great future here for me and I’m ready to give it all I have. I will be living in Phuket, Thailand for the month of April, with residency at one of the largest venues, Famous NightClub. Then moving to Bangkok in May which will be my central location for work and travel. Hi Asia, my name is DJ Dean Michaels, get ready!

WMC' 11 with Liquid Lightning Energy Drink and AMG

2011-04-11T03:24:00.000-07:00

CLICK TO VIEW:

This years WMC '11, Winter Music Conferance, in Miami I had the pleaseure to link up with Liquid Lightning Energy Drink and Artist Music Group to throw some great events throughout South Beach. We were able to get the team of top DJ's together in a penthouse for a jam session. Check it out!

Liquid Lightning Energy Drink

Artist Music Group

MIAMI WMC '11 RECAP

2011-03-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

Last week the Miami’s annual WMC, Winter Music Conferance, came to town. I linked up with Liquid Lightning Energy Drink and Artist Music Group which hosted their Pure Energy parties at The Catalina Hotel. On Wednesday, we kicked it off at Maxines, going all day and night. My set was during the day, where most visitors were enjoying the mix and beautiful weather both outside by the pool or the patio/lounge. The line up was great and gave a little taste of what was planned for the up coming evening event. Friday night was at the Kung Fu lounge, also located inside The Catalina. This party was crazy! Sometimes you hear stories of the “old WMC,” where the best parties would be found in secret locations, a penthouse or intimate lounge, places that didn’t have thousands of people in a big club, but instead captured the true energy of the conference by having some of the top DJ’s and crowds that are there for the music. That was Friday night. From the street you heard the thump of the bass going, you saw a couple walking people going in and outside, but it was not until you stepped foot into the actual party where you saw a crowd of people with their hands in the air screaming for every track that was played. The night was a huge success! Overall, it was great to be involved with the WMC. I was able to see a lot of my DJ and industry contacts from around the world. Looking forward doing it even bigger next year! If you missed the Pure Energy parties, Liquid Lightning and AMG will be hosting future events throughout South Florida very soon. Check out www.DJDeanMichaels.com for all updates and info.

DENIED

2011-02-18T09:06:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, I get on Virgin Atlantic Airlines around midnight heading to Heathrow Airport in London. The flight was great! I had the entire row to myself. Caught up on all the latest movies, had some good food, went through some music, got some sleep and woke up landing in Wednesday morning ready to take on London for a mini weekend tour.

I head toward customs. I’m messaging all my friends, posting pictures on my Facebook and Twitter. The line moved quickly. All I had was a small carry on and my backpack. With a smile on my face, I walked up to the immigration officer and then it began.

First, to fully understand the story let me explain what my original travel plans were. Arrive in London on Wednesday morning. I had a friend from the states there on business that I was meeting up with til Friday. On Friday, I planned to meet with one of the promoters during the day and play at a club that night. Saturday same thing and leave on Sunday. I would be at a hotel the first two nights, then was going to be staying with one of my DJ friends over there, but I had no idea where he lived because he was going to just pick me up. All my contacts were through my BBM, Blackberry messenger, or email since its easier just to use your data plan when you travel then paying for international calls. My DJ friend was out of the country til Thursday, which didn’t matter since I had other plans with friends and was meeting him on Friday at the club.

Now I’ve traveled and played in different countries before. Usually, you say I’m here for vacation for a couple days, all I have is a backpack and a carry on and there’s really no questions or hassle. Get into the country, DJ, and head back. Never once being asked to provide any documents. People do it all the time, if you’re a traveling DJ most likely you have as well. You think to yourself, I have a laptop, some headphones and records...I’m into music and that’s what I travel with. It’s not a crime....or is it?

Im going to share with you step by step what happened. The questions and the process. Some of it will be conversation.

O: Officer and Me. I walked up to the desk. The officer was a young woman probably mid-twenties. I was smiling, she was smiling, and I handed my filled out form. Occupation: Entertainment.

O: Hello sir, what is your purpose for being here. Me: I’m here for a couple of days visiting some friends. O: Who are you visiting? Me: I’m staying with my friend at a hotel, he’s an American, here on business, I also have some friends that live here as well. O: Who are the London friends you are visiting here? Me: A couple people I know that I met through over the summer while I was DJing in Spain. O: Yes, I see entertainment, so you’re a DJ? Me: Yes, I’m a professional DJ. Now remember, the officer is young female around my age, whom I sure after work goes to the same clubs I’d probably be working at that weekend. Very calm and friendly. O: So you’re a DJ, and are you playing here?...It begins. Now the “officer” starts to come out and I realize that I need to be very careful with the next words I’m about to say. Me: No, I’m not playing here or getting paid for any type of work.

O: Do you mind stepping over here so we can take a look at your bags real quick? Me: Sure, no problem. Again, I’ve traveled before and have had my bags searched. I still wasn’t too worried.

They open my bags. My carry on had some clothes and then they opened my backpack. My DJ laptop with my DJ name all over it. Records, needles, headphones, and a huge stack of business cards. O: So this is what you use to DJ? Me: Yes. O: Can I have one of your business cards? Me: Sure. O: Ok sir, can you just follow me real quick, we just have to do a further search on you. Me: No, problem. They take me to this room. The nice sweet girl still smiling. O: Give me your hands real quick, just have to take your fingerprints before you enter the room. Oh and if you can sit right there while I take your picture. Me: Is everything OK? What’s the reason for bringing me back here? O: We’ll I have reason to believe you’re not here only for vacation and we just need to ask you a few more questions before we let you through.

She then takes me down stairs, underneath the airport, to this room. All concrete. I walk inside. There’s two people sitting at a desk. They weren’t officers, just supervisors to watch the people being held. They did a pat down. They kept my bags, and took my cell phone. They then put me into a locked holding room. O: You need to wait here and someone will be with you shortly ask you some questions. Door closed. I took a seat. Inside, the room there were a couple other people. Some were Arab, an Indian kid, an English guy, a girl from some place I’ve never heard of and a Black former US soldier named Reggie. Reggie just flew in from Washington D.C. He was a disabled vet. who had a fiance and two children living in London. He also was stationed there for 3 years of his service. He was there to finalize wedding plans. His last visit, his fiance came down with the swine flu. He stayed with her. His visa expired and he left 7 days later. That’s why he was being held. I spoke to him the most and had to watch him take phone call after phone call inside there from his crying kids and future wife explaining that he might not make it to see them. By the way, the idea that we are US Citizens and have rights and protection from our embassy and someone will come and save us...false.

After 3 hours, another female officer walks in. O: Dean, come with me please. She takes me to the interrogation room. The way the process works is they ask you a bunch of questions, writing down WORD for WORD what you say. They then take that piece of paper, bring it to their chief, who you never see, and from what they give him he makes a judgement to let you stay or to deny you entry. O: So you say you’re here for vacation correct? Me: Yes. O: So you are not DJing or getting paid to DJ anywhere here? Me: No. O: Well, we took a looked at your website (on business card) and a couple others and they say you are playing Friday and Saturday night. At this point, I knew what they saw but still was confident I can work through it. Me: We’ll let me explain. I know it seems like that but the reality is I was coming over here for vacation. I have some other DJ friends that are playing and sometimes as DJ’s you can hop on and play for a little while. But, I’m not getting paid, I wasn’t planning on playing, it was strictly for promotional use and on my websites I just made it seem bigger then it was. Nothing is set and I wasn’t planning to work. It’s a situation where if I show up, I might just go on for a little bit as a guest, get some good pictures and press for back in America and that’s all. That was the best I could say at that point. O: Well, even if you are not getting paid like you said, and it’s only for promotional use, if there are people paying inside the club to come and see you, you still need a work visa. Me: Again, I’m not working, they are not paying me, and I don’t even know if I will get a chance to play. O: All your websites and the clubs are promoting you saying that you are playing. Ok. Follow me back, I’m going to talk to my chief and see what he says. They bring me back to the waiting room again.

Another 3 hours goes by. I have no phone so I can’t contact anyone. The only London contacts I have are on my BBM, and the DJ I was supposed to meet up with isn’t in town til Friday. They did have a phone you can use inside the room, but it was for incoming calls and I had no access to any numbers or anyway to tell anyone what was happening. A second officer comes back, brings me to the room again, to ask me more questions.

Now remember, they write down everything you say and the only defense you have to the chief is whatever they relay when they’re done. O: So it says on your website that you are playing on Friday and Saturday correct? Me: Yes, on my WEBSITE is says that I’m playing. But again I’m not playing. I just posted that for promotional use for people back in the states. I’m not working and not getting paid. O: We believe you do plan to work here. If that is the case you need to have a work sponsorship. Now the club or promoter should have a sponsorship number that they can give. Usually, you need this before you enter, but we also grant temporary ones since you’ll be here for only a couple days. Me: Great, how can I get that number for you? O: We’ll the club or your promoter friend you mentioned would have to provide that. Me: No problem, I have his contact in my phone, you can call him and I’m sure he can give you all the information you need. O: No, we’re not calling anyone for you. Me: We’ll can I call him and he can give me that info. O: No, you can not call him either or have your phone.

At this point, I just had a 9 hour flight, I was sitting in a holding room for over 6hrs, was interrogated 3 times and I decided to try to be human. I looked in the eyes of the officer, she too was around my age. Me: Listen, I came to London to meet some friends and see your beautiful city. Go to the palace, see Big Ben, take a picture at the Stone hedge and have fun with some friends in between. I have my own business, I’m trying to expand into Europe, I brought my equipment, just in case any opportunities came around. I’m not working here, I’m not getting paid, that is not the reason why I’m here. I will sign any papers, I will even let you hold my DJ bag until I leave, at least let me spend some time here. I understand this is your job and I respect that, but from person to person I know you know how I’m being treated isn’t right. You’re making to be a criminal, you’ve kept me in a room for 6-7 hours, I’ve done nothing but be co-operative. Please help. O: Ok. Have a seat back in the waiting room and we will let you know.

Another 2 hours goes by, one by one they would call people out there. At this time, after 8 hours with people you say goodbye and wish them good luck. Everyone that was in the holding room was denied access and sent back to there countries...even Reggie. The officer calls me into the room. O: Dean, I have to inform you that you have been denied access. Since, there is no flight out til tomorrow, instead of holding you in detention, we will release you for the evening. We will hold your passport, you must return tomorrow morning 3 hours before your flight, get a new boarding pass, bring it to immigration and we will give you your passport back and make sure you get back on the plane back to Miami. I suggest next time you come to “visit” you leave you’re DJ bag at home.

I’m now back. I decided to share this story, one to explain why I will not be playing this weekend in London and also for my fellow DJ’s, entertainers, or any traveler for that matter. The world is a different place now. Google my name and in seconds you can find everything about my life. Facebook, Twitter, blog, websites, videos, it’s all there and pretty impossible to hide. So here’s my advice. If you are planning on doing any type of business where you will be getting paid. Cash, check, whatever it is, make sure you have the proper documents before you go to that country. If you can’t get them, then you can’t work there. Also, make sure you have everything ready including your travel documents and answers. Your flight confirmation, when you are arriving and leaving. Your hotel information. If you’re staying with friends, their names, addresses and telephone numbers. Very specific. Write down emergency numbers you can call separate from your phone. The biggest thing is to remember that your first statement or answers hold the most weight if this should ever happen to you. They record everything. It’s important to prepare and to not just wing it and see what happens. It doesn’t work in this world anymore. I’m not upset or have anything bad to say about what has happened. When I arrived home to the states, I told the US officer what they did and he informed me that we treat people the same way and are even tougher. As for London, arrangements are already being made to come back and play in very near future so the tour will go on. Next time, I will have my working visa in hand. If anyone has any questions you can contact me through Facebook or Twitter or go to my website for all contact info. Hope this helped. Please share this story with others so hopefully it does not happen to you or anyone else.

NO REQUESTS

2011-01-26T10:48:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been at an event or nightclub, maybe had a drink or two, and thought to yourself.... “I would really love to hear this song right now.” “I wonder if I should go and tell the DJ to play it?” The answer, NO!

I’m going to be honest and tell you the rules of requests. Let’s start by explaining the three things that DJ’s do accept: Drinks, money, and compliments. Now giving one or all three does not guarantee that your song will be played. Why not?! The DJ’s job is to play to the crowd...the entire crowd. Certain crowds require certain genres. Now sometimes the song that you request might not be a bad song, it just doesn’t go with the party at the time.

The usual questions and conversations that drive us crazy...and yes almost all DJ’s around the world have heard these at one point in their career.

Q: Do you take requests? A: No Q: Why not? A: I’m sorry about that, I’m working right now. Q: You’re not nice. A: Again, I’m sorry, but you approached me, I didn’t come to you.

Q: Do you have this song? A: Yes, I might have it, but that song isn’t going to work so no I can not play it.

Q: Do you have this song? A: No Q: Can you download it right now? A: No, I’m playing right now and can’t log on to the internet, find your song, download it, and play it. Plus, if I don’t have the song, it’s probably because it’s not that good to dance to.

Q: What songs do you have? A: I have 75,000 songs and I’m playing live right now in front of 500 people, if you haven’t noticed. So I don’t have time to tell you my collection.

Q: I don’t like this song can you play something else? A: I’m sorry if you don’t, the crowd with there hands in the air jumping up and down loves this song and it’s the #1 jam out. I’ll be playing many more like it, so maybe this party isn’t for you.

Q: Can you play a line dance or a very old cheesy group dance song? A: No, the 90‘s cheese era was 20 years ago and we don’t need to bring that back...ever.

Q: Does it matter if I’m a beautiful girl or cool guy? A: Nope..it’s still annoying. We see drunk people on the regular and your physical appearance does not take away from us noticing that your falling all over and almost bumping our equipment.

Q: Can you play this song? A: I’ll see what I can do.

Q: Can you play it right now? A: No, I will soon.

5 minutes later....

Q: When are you going to play the song? A: I don’t know soon.

Q: How soon because we are leaving? A: Well why would I play your song if you’re going to leave?

Q: Ok, I don’t know the name of the song, but it goes Ba-da diddy da da da, do you have that? A: Really?!

Q: I'm a new artist, usually a rapper that no one has ever heard of. Can you play this song in the middle of your set so me and my two friends that I brought can rap and dance to it. A: I respect that you are an artist and your music might be really good. But the crowd has never heard this song before and probably will wonder why the DJ is playing it. It also might kill the mood and energy right now and that won't be good. So please have your song downloaded a lot on itunes, get thousands of hits on youtube, possibly played on the radio, and I'll be happy to throw it into rotation.

Q: Here’s a drink. A: Thank you! Q: Can you play a random song I thought of in my head that no one knows and can’t dance to? A: No, but thank you for the drink.

Q: Here’s $20 you’re doing great. A: Thank you! Q: Can you play a random song I thought of in my head that no one knows and can’t dance to? A: No, but thank you for the tip.

Q: You’re a great DJ! A: Thank you! Q: Can you play a random song I thought of in my head that no one knows and can’t dance to? A: No, but thank you for the compliment.

Q: WHY? WHY? WHY? A: Because it’s my job to make people dance. Because I’ve been doing this for half of my life and I know what songs work and don’t work. Because you probably work in an office, sit in a cubicle, don’t go out to much, and aren’t up to date what works in the club or event and nobody wants to hear that song. Because I’m working. WORKING yes this is my job. Just like we don’t tell the doctor I think you should prescribe a different medicine or a chef I think you should use different ingredients, when we know nothing about wellness or cooking.

Now as DJ’s there are times when we make exceptions and you are allowed to request any song you want. At the end of the night, the person who ultimately writes the check or gives us the cash, has the right to tell the DJ whatever they want to hear and receive that at the time they request it. This includes the manager or owner of the club, the bride, the groom, the parents of both, the event co-ordinator, or the person or CEO or the company who the event is for. If you are not on that list, I’m sorry to say but we have no obligation to play your song, especially if does not work with the party. Please don’t take it personal, you’re not a DJ and it’s not you’re job to know what good party songs are.

I hoped this helps you understand where we as DJ’s are coming from. We do appreciate you coming out to our events, but understand that we are real people that take what we do very seriously and to please have respect for what we do.

NEW YEARS EVE 2010 @ SEMINOLE HARD ROCK CASINO

2011-01-10T05:05:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve 2010 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Check out the video of this year's "Rock the Heavens" New Year's Eve celebration at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood Florida. Rock With U Entertainment was there with an 8 piece Fusion setup featuring DJ Dean Michaels at the center. Here's to big things in 2011!!

GRAND OPENING OF THE NEW GARAGE @ SEMINOLE HARD ROCK CASINO

2010-12-20T09:26:00.000-08:00

Hard Rock Casino knows how to open their new Garage with a Smash! Over 3,000 people were in attendance. I played with Rock With U Entertainment’s- FUSION band. Started the night gathering everyone into the Ballroom were we entertained the invited guests. After organizing, we began to bus the huge crowd out to new garage. Setup were over 2,400 guitars, waiting to be smashed at the same time to set a new Guiness book world record. Fireworks, dancers, world records, even Huey Lewis and the News performed! The event was great, record was made, and the garage is officially open for parking!

VICTORIA SECRET EVENT

2010-12-20T09:06:00.000-08:00

Recently, I hosted a private event for the valued costumers of Victoria Secret. Costumers were allowed in the store after hours for a private holiday shopping experience we’re they were given special discounts and prizes.

GRAND OPENING BONGOS @ SEMINOLE HARD ROCK CASINO

2010-12-20T08:57:00.000-08:00

I arrived at Bongos. There’s a certain feeling I get when I walk into a new venue. I check out the decor, how the bar is setup, where’s seating, how does the staff look, operations, and of course the sound system. Yep...everything is perfect. The event started out with the red carpet outside, leading into the main down stairs area. I was setup on the VIP rooftop area, were I was accompanied by the Estefan family. Other celebrities included John Secada, Lili Estafan, Jennifer Finnegan, Jonathan Silverman and more. Though it was cold outside, the event was a huge success thanks to the cb5 Group. Once the warm weather returns, I will be returning to the rooftop frequently. DJ Dean Michaels Bongo's Mix is available to download below.

BONGOS MIX

Bongos at the Hard Rock! Hollywood, FL

PURA VIDA

2010-10-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

PURA VIDA....just remember those words and you’ll be fine.

I arrive in San Jose for the first time, after a quick 2 hour flight. A local promoter and now friend @Mariano_md was there to greet me and take me to the hotel. It’s rainy season over there now, but the scenery was still beautiful. We stayed in the city side. The beach area was about 1hr 1/2 ride away. I was only there for the weekend and playing that night. Being a local, for 23 years, he was able to show me everywhere in the city and explain everything at the same time, personal taxi / tour guide. That night I was playing the newly re-opened Prive, so we decided to stop by to check out the DJ booth and sound. Located in Escazu, one of the more wealthier areas, Prive is defenitly the perfect club to compliment the clientele. The lights, sound, and visual systems were top notch. I was excited for night.

DJ’s Maxxx and Charlie Stevens opened and closed with some good sets. I played an open format set mixed with house and hip hop. Bottles were popped and the crowd as very responsive. Everyone was very welcoming. I met some great people and look forward to returning more frequently. If you go to Costa Rica, I highly recommend you spend one night on the city side, and take visit to Prive. I will see you there!

SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW

2010-10-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW....there’s a new party in town!

This brand new ultra sushi lounge, Tokyo Blue, just opened a couple of weeks ago, inside the Ocean Manor Hotel/Resort. One night, I went in with my good friend/ business partner Scott Eddy, @MrScottEddy, to grab some food and drinks. We ordered a couple rolls, sake, and some other thing that was really good but I have no idea what it was. Sitting there at this gorgeous all carved glass bar, watching as it changed colors, I’m thinking..wow..this is a really cool spot. The food is amazing! Chef Mai, formerly of Nobu- Chef Akira, a shokunin (Master Sushi Chef) and former owner of Sushin. Sake was hot, staff was quick, and the vibe was good. The feel is definitely more lower Manhattan than upper Ft. Lauderdale.

When I was living and working in New York City, my favorite scene was when you had a variety of people that would come together, clicks were random, and the music was just the same. The energy was good. People weren’t trying to be cool, they just understood what was going on. Surround that with a soundtrack and some good snacks in between, makes one hell of a week night.....real New Yorkers don’t party on weekends.

During sushi, I thought what if I could host a night looking for a different type of crowd. Professionals, artists, designers, girls, guys, black, white, Latin, Asian, gay, straight....taking a whole bunch of colors and putting them together, kind of like this Rainbow Roll I’m eating. Something on a Wednesday, in a place that has a great atmosphere, delicious food, good people and music. And so it began.... Rainbow Roll Wednesdays at Tokyo Blue.

A couple weeks in and I’m watching this night develop. I’m seeing plates of food and sake bombs go by. I’m noticing the people that are conversing with each other. A photographer, a salon owner, a fashion designer, a CEO, classy, beautiful people networking, drinking, and dancing. As it builds, I will be reaching out to the clientele to throw events and be introducing some new elements into the night. Now there are people that might say..wow that’s a little awkward to be around different types of people....I'd say check it out you might like it..you might not. There are also people that are looking for something different. A chill night during the week where you can take a date or meet some one new in a loungey city type setting, surrounded by an ocean. A place where you’ll see people with the same interests, eating delicious food, listening to a DJ that is dedicated to making everyone have great time. I’m excited to see how this night unfolds. I know if I was going out....this is where I’d be.

TECH VS TECHNIQUE

2010-10-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

TECH vs. TECHNIQUE

An up and coming DJ came to me and asked for lessons. I arrived at his house, walked in his “studio” where he had computers, effect boards, mixing programs, cdjs (DJ cd players)....just a techie’s dream. He goes, “Ok, teach me how to DJ.” So I unplugged his computer, his effect board, mixing programs, I took 2 cd’s, handed him headphones and said let’s begin. DJn is about music. Listening to the music. Finding out where you want to take the crowd with that music. Scratching is cool, mixing is key. Learn the beats, learn the breaks. Understand why you’re choosing the next song. What is this song going to do for the crowd? Does is blend smoothly? Do the songs make sense going into one another?

Technology is great. Years ago I traveled with cases and cases of records, then moved to cd's, and now I carry a backpack with a laptop. It’s changed the way DJ’s can do business being more accessible to travel. It’s also made it more affordable for DJ’s to create their own remixes without having to find an actual studio. But, there’s one thing that is sometimes forgotten and that’s the music. Believe me, I even get caught sometimes staring at the laptop screen...feeling like I’m playing DJ Hero or a video game. Yes, technology has been a part of music forever and does nothing but open doors and creativity. On the other end, it can also take you away from the actual activity and in a sense give a false hope of the skill level required for the job. Think about it...hitting home runs on Wii baseball doesn’t really qualify you for the major leagues. The problem with technology is that we get comfortable. I always say if you're given a crate of records, or a stack of cd's, you should be able to rock the party just the same...and sometimes that’s not the case. Pre-mixes, automatic mixing, is like painting with numbers to me. Ever wonder why there are DJ’s that have been doing it for 20+ years and they’re still around? Cause if you use records, cd's, turntables, laptops, or big touch screens..the reality is that the skill is not mastering the technology...it’s mastering the technique. The technique is in the music. It’s in mastering the crowd. It’s taking different music and making it into your art. Personally, the way I look at sets are I try to make it sound like one continuos track. Blending and mixing are important to me..the flow. Now some DJ’s have different styles. Some might scratch and go back n forth, some might be on the mic and drop a song, the list can go on and on. Bottom line, is we are there for one purpose and that is to make people dance or take them on a musical journey. Relying on technology is not a smart move. I suggest to work on the music and go back to the roots. Think about working out. With all the technology and machines...some of the best ways to get in shape are to do push ups, pull ups, and sit ups. Get back to basics first, then use the technology to enhance your skills not replace them. I say this because I’ve seen time and time again, new DJ’s that have “their setup” with effects on their mixer or certain programs, and then they get to the club, realize that 95% of the DJ booths out there aren’t setup correctly and look nothing like your home setup, and they get stuck because they’ve practiced on the learning the technology and not the technic. Listen, technology is not going to stop and I think the music and DJ world are going to see some amazing innovations over the next 10 years, just watch the video above. But rocking a party is rocking a party and no matter what buttons you press, to rock a party in the DJ world there’s only one way to do it and that’s with the music. So my suggestions to DJ’s or to anyone that’s looking to get into art or business or whatever it maybe, is try to understand what it really takes to do something. Get back to the roots. Technology will always change and will be available to everyone, but technique is something that needs to be learned, practiced, perfected, and shared.

MY FIRST SONG

2010-10-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

MY FIRST SONG.....

I am a horrible athlete. I can’t shoot, I can’t throw, I can’t run....just don’t pick me for your team, I won’t be offended. But I do respect athletes. Basketball players in particular, I’m fascinated with. Just looking at the game now filled with so many mini cultures and having such a variety of people that are able to play at all different skill levels and styles. I look at the ones that made it to the professional level. The NBA players. They work hard, they’ve trained for years and years, practice after practice, game after game, they’ve given every second, emotion, pain, struggle, happiness, sacrifice, good times, bad times, just most of their lives to the game and continue to do so, just to stay at the level they’re at and be able to share their gift with others.

Most of those players started playing when they were kids. They played in town basketball, for middle school, high school, played in college, and after college they could’ve done some semi pro, and then eventually the NBA....most. Now sometimes, there are exceptions. A Prodigy. A Lebron James. That still had to work as hard if not harder, but was just able to do it a little faster. Lebron James, is one of the best and most wealthiest players in world. Yet with all of his fame, fortune, and skill the one thing that I’ve noticed was when he plays, he takes none of that for granted, and treats each game as if it was the first and last one he’ll ever play. That, is respect for the game. It’s understanding what it takes to get to a certain level, and loving the game enough to go thru that process to achieve it. Now there are other people that play basketball that don’t want to be Lebron James. There’s street ballers with a more underground style. There’s entertainers, that use basketball for more of a show then an actual game. There’s people that are in leagues, that play at the gym, and theres some that just like to shoot around in there drive way. So what makes someone a basketball player? A ball, a basket, and a court right? If I went and bought a ball, a basket, and a court, and now am a basketball player, would I be ready to play Lebron James? The answer is no. But, if I played basketball through out my life, gave my time, passion, sacrifice, and natural ability, while working day in and day out, playing games for free, playing morning, noon, and night. If then, I decided to play him, I might have a shot to win or at least be able to handle the competition. Now I’m not saying that I couldn’t do those things eventually, even without doing what was mentioned. I could have a try out, I might play basketball and if I knew somebody that knew somebody, I could set up a game. But if I was to go in there and playing as is, my basketball career would be short, because I couldn’t deliver what was necessary for that level.

I look at DJing the same way. Being a DJ has as many levels and meanings as being a Basketball player. There are turntablists (street ballers), DJ’s that instead of a basketball, use records to do tricks, make sounds through the manipulation of a record (wicka wicka) and really focus on the creative element. There are private event DJ’s (entertainers), that involve more of a show to their performance. There are people that play in the bedroom for fun, or play in the backyard for bqq’s and do it more as a hobby. There’s also another level. A NBA for DJs. DJ’s that do it for a profession. That have worked for years and years at a skill. That gave they’re lives to it and now are in “ The League.” Now like the NBA, not everyone can be Lebron James. I myself feel that I made it to the NBA, but still have a long way to go to achieve that status. So what makes someone a DJ? Now and days, let’s say a laptop, a mixer, two turntables or cd players and a speaker. Oh wait and a Facebook, a Twitter, a Youtube, website, blog, stickers, t-shirts, business cards...but we’ll save that for another blog and yes I have all of them. The point is that lately, what’s happening to the game, and I feel its happening to the music industry as a whole, is that people are not willing to put in the effort, and when they get their try out, when they go to the NBA and play Lebron, most of the time they loose.

I write these blogs mostly to inspire new DJ’s and people in general. I’ve traveled a long road and am still running, but my advice to someone that just went out and bought a laptop, turntables, a mixer, and a speaker, is that you should practice everyday. You should play gigs for free...I still do. Play as much as possible. Play every party, every crowd, play, play, play. You are never too good for any gig. If you really feel this is what you are meant to do, then achieving that level is not impossible, but you have start from the beginning and work your way up. The reason I say this, and I tell new DJ’s this all of the time, is that you only get one shot. You get one try out to make an impression. You can talk your game, you can have all the equipment, you can even be almost there....but unless you’re ready for the NBA, the opportunity to play Lebron won’t be as helpful to your career if can’t do anything with it when it comes. And it will come. And when it does, and every time after that, think of it as if it was the first day. Think of all of the parties you played, the equipment you carried, all of the sacrifices, the good times, the bad times, think of your love and passion. Most importantly, respect the game and the people involved. Anytime you play at a new spot or get an opportunity, be thankful. Be prepared. Be humble. Remember what it takes to get somewhere and respect the ones that already are there. And always play your first song like it was your last, and your last song like it was your first.

PRACTICE and PATIENCE

2010-10-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

PRACTICE and PATIENCE are the two things I think are missing from the next generation of DJ's. The other day I'm out to lunch with a friend of mine, and he says "man you have it easy, all you do is go up there an play a couple songs." Yep...and all Michael Jordan did was shoot a ball through a net. It's a perception that people usually have with entertainment. I call it the "it looks easy" thought.

When I was 15, I started DJing in my basement. At the time, I was into hip hop and house and my CD collection was huge...later on I moved to records..but vinyl is expensive. So with the money that I made from busing tables and washing dishes, since 13, I went and bought 2 Pioneer cdj 100’s and Pioneer 300 mixer. A heavy as hell amp case and 2 JBL’s 15’s....and a vertigo light that my mom bought me. For hours and hours, days and days, I would be down there. Luckily, there was a DJ that lived in town DJ Klemp. He was older, and had been DJing for years by that time, and was running his successful entertainment company DJ’s At Large. He took me under his wing, and before I knew it I was with him at every school dance, wedding, frat house, corporate party, nightclub, wherever. My fee for the lessons.....carry, setup, and break down the equipment.....which wasn’t that bad with 2 four foot high speakers with 2 15inch subs in each, 5 foot high rack system fully loaded, light trusts, lights...basically the biggest heaviest system you can fit in a van. With him and myself for years and till this day, I’ve carried and setup, and played and drivin thru snow, rain, sleet, flat tires, no gas, traffic jams...the list can go on. Most private event DJ’s know what I’m talking about. Besides the private parties, then comes the bars and clubs. Going to foreign countries and walking through cities with a backpack filled with music, DJing at clubs where no one spoke English. Playing clubs til 5-6am to walk out with 200 bucks driving another 1 1/2 home to wake up in 2 hours to go to work. Or just playing for free most of the time. Playing anywhere, anytime for 10 minutes to 10 hours. Then promotion. Before the internet... passing out thousands of flyers every day. Going to school, working 3 jobs, and DJing all night. Still in the room for hours everyday practicing. Just years and years of trying to get that shot.

I mean I have war stories for days. We all do. Anyone that has ever had a passion for anything has them. Athletes, actors, singers, dancers, artists, corporate. But it’s part of the game. It’s a HUGE part. Especially for this business. The entertainment business is not all it seems to be. It’ll put you on stage then boo you right off. That’s why it’s important to respect the game. Ever since the digital age... it seems to be a little lost. All you need is a laptop, some turntables, a mixer, a Myspace or Facebook and your a DJ. See to me...that’s great. I love it when people want to become DJ’s and create new music and express there different styles and flavors....that’s cool to me. What’s not cool...is when the same DJ will walk in the same club as you, demand just as much money, with no history, no resume, and deliver a show..that’s not bad...but not at the level their ready for yet. You hear this from a lot of DJ’s that have been through some of the same struggles. And the reaction back is usually... “don’t hate” It’s not hating. It’s competing. The level of performance has dropped instead of raised. It’s happened to the music industry as a whole. People want instant stardom. No more practice, no more working to get to a certain level, no more grind....instant. I compare it to a micro-wavable meal to grandma’s cooking. The food on the plate might look the same and have the same names, but quality is incomparable. I’m not saying that one DJ deserves more than another. And I would never judge anyone without knowing their story. But for the new DJ’s, be patient. Practice beat matching, scratching, playing different genres, remixing. Play parties...any parties. Play for free...for 1 person..play for 1,000 people. And when you’ve played and played and played..then you’ll be ready to play.

Till this day, I feel like I still have a lot to learn, and still practice everyday trying to become better and better...there are levels and goals that I STILL need to reach....but the advice is that if you truly want to be DJ or anything, do it for the love, for the passion, for the art...don’t do it for the title. Respect the title. Same goes for the fans. Don’t put the instant meal next to home cooking....it’s bad taste. I encourage everyone to go out and pursue their dreams. Anything and everything is possible for anyone if you put in time and hard work. But know when you take steps out of the ladder, it makes it a lot harder to get to the top.

ON STAGE

2010-10-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

ON STAGE...Mondays at Blue Martini

I arrived early around 10 o'clock. The band is playing, usually til about 11-11:30. Looking around I realize that there's people here, but definitely not enough to have a good stage show. The stage is always different than the booth. The "all eyes on you" raises the bar and pressure level way higher. In the booth, you can feel your crowd out, you can play songs a little longer if there's certain verses you want to be heard, if you mess up..and it happens..it's usually not as noticeable. People are focused on the music but also tend to get more involved with the atmosphere, and for me the playlist tends to be a little different.

It's now coming up to about 11 o'clock. I start thinking maybe I should play from the booth tonight. Then over the next half hour, like always, groups and groups of people just start piling in. The band ends. I start playing in the booth while they breakdown. Once the bands off, my DJ coffin gets setup, I put a mixed cd on while I head up to the stage. The process is very quick. I get on, open my laptop, put on my records, tighten the needles, do a quick sound check and it’s time. I give the thumbs up, lights go on, and I press play. My first song was the new Beautiful Monster by Ne-yo.

About 5 minutes in, the dancers join me. I usually base most of my set off them. I try to play them songs that can let them give the best show they can and try not to play too many songs with long breaks in them. Only because that down time gets a little awkward...it’s hard to dance when there’s no beat. You see it a lot in house music...which can be fine, especially if there’s a good build up, but I try to make sure the breaks aren’t that long. That also has to do with the lighting and if your able to I guess “distract” the crowd from the non-moving dancers...really depends on venue. But for that stage, where the lights are directly on the performers, for the most part, you want to keep it moving. That doesn’t mean playing 2 seconds of a song and trying to see how fast you can go to the next one. But stage crowds have a shorter attention span. They’re also expecting more from you. Just playing one song after the another isn’t going to cut it. Sometimes you see a lot of DJ’s talk on the mic to get the crowd going...which I occasionally do but usually only for birthday, venue, or sponsor shout outs. For myself, I try to make that happen through the music.

Preperation is key. People think you go up and just play music. But if your not prepared for when those lights hit, it’s a whole other game. But I’ve BEEN preparing. I’ve prepared in my bedroom, in my basement in front of friends, at bbqs, house parties, weddings, birthdays, charities, malls, hotels, bars, lounges, night clubs, radio stations..and now the stage. The stage is unforgiving. You either come correct or get off. It’s similar to the DJ booth but where every song counts in there...every songs REALLY counts up there. At the same time it’s also inspiring. It gave new life to me where it makes me constantly work on my music and keep coming with better shows every time.

Its now 2:01 am, and the last song has finished. I’m dripping with sweat and the past 2 1/2 hours just flew by. The staff was happy. The crowd had a good time. And I’m thinking about all the things I can do better the next Monday. At the same time, completely grateful for the opportunity to be able to have been up there. Then, walking out to my car I hear some yelling DEAN MICHAELS.....HEY, DEAN MICHAELS...so I turned around and walked up. This guy explains that he’s come to see me a couple times. He’s the president of a record label and works with artist’s such as Pitbull and Casely. He wanted to thank me for the support of play their songs, especially for this one particular song called Sweat by Casely ft. Lil Jon...which is a great dance song btw. We talked about some possible opportunities, we exchanged info and hopefully we’ll be doing some work in the future.

Just a day in the life though...on stage with two dancers at one of the premier venues, playing to hundreds of people, being chased down in the parking lot by record labels...don’t worry I’m still not that cool. But it goes to show how nothing is impossible. And those blood, sweat, and tears were all worth it. To me this is only the beginning. I’m not even close to the level where I want to be at, and I plan to keep working, hopefully making it to even bigger stages, and at the same time inspire others to want to be on there as well.

LADIES NIGHT

2010-10-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

LADIES NIGHT at Blue Martini Ft. Lauderdale

PACKED! I'm going to say it again, Blue Martini has the perfect atmosphere for the 25+ crowd. It's grown, it's classy, it's sexy. From start to finish everyone shows up for a good time and has one. The place was wall to wall and the energy was there. That's the most important thing with any party is the energy. Yes, there are nights where the place is packed and people are at a 6 or 7 level...but there's nights when they are a 9 or 10 and that's when it becomes a really good time. I know it effects how I play. I constantly feed off the crowd. Some DJ's go in and play. If the crowds dancing or not, they play their songs and set. For me its more complicated. I truly feel like I am YOUR DJ. And as YOUR DJ it is my job to take from the 6-7 and bring you to your 10. The only challenge sometimes is the limitations on music. Because that crowd is so diverse, there needs to be a variety of music played. House, hip hop, top 40, 80s, rock, reggae, latin....you will probably hear me play almost all these genres in one night. At the same time, because theres not a specific type of music, there becomes this thin line of where you can go with certain genres. Play house...but not too hard. Play hip hop...but not too dirty or explicit. Play top 40...but not too cheesy. This is why it is hard for some DJ's to play at these types of venues. It's like telling an artist to paint their own picture but they can only use certain colors and brushes to do so. This is where the DJ ego needs to be put in check.

For me, it's not about ME. It's about everyone else. It's about the crowd having a good time. Its about the staff having a good time. It's about people wanted to stay and party and enjoy the atmosphere, people, and drinks and besides doing it all night, making them want to come back and do it again. And they do.

Any night at Blue Martini you're going to have a good time. I do hold back on some of the music on certain nights because I'm aware of my surroundings and what would be appropriate or not for that time. BUT there are nights..like Mondays ITB where I'm on stage and let it loose. Gives a brief inside on how I like to play. Again, it all depends on the crowd. I can say that if someone is looking for a good crowd, Wednesdays Ladies Night at Blue Martini is def where you can find it.....along with good music.

IT WAS ALL A DREAM

2010-10-21T12:02:00.000-07:00

IT WAS ALL A DREAM...... About 10 years ago, I was watching MTV and DJ Skribble was performing. His music, his style, and the way he rocked the crowd was something amazing. At that moment, already hugely into music, I decided that I wanted to be a DJ. Over the years I followed his career and to keep this short and sweet...let's say he was my Idol. Since day one, I've put my life into DJing. No one really get's to see the sacrifice or struggle it takes to get to a certain level. Years and years of traveling, playing anywhere and everywhere...most of the time for little or no money. But it's your love, it's your passion, and if it's your talent...then you know to keep with it and one day you'll be rewarded. On April 28th...my reward came.

About a week before I get a call from one of the promoters asking me if I'd be interesting in opening for DJ Skribble. After saying yes, before he took another breathe, I then quickly hung up the phone and got a feeling that was pretty indescribable. I compare it to playing a round with Tiger or shooting baskets with Jordan...in my eyes.

I arrived at Blue Martini. There were a couple guys re-arranging the DJ booth. Plan was I was opening from 11:30-12, Skribble goes on, then I close after he's done. At first, it seemed like such a hassle just to let me play for half hour, I told him if it was too much just go ahead and play and we'll switch when you're done. He said no, helped hook everything up, and understood from my large amounts of twitter and facebook posts...that it was a big deal for me. He had no ego, and he was cool even though for the first 10-15 minutes and a couple random times throughout the night my "super fan" kicked in and I explained who he was to me. But I had over 10 years to fit into a couple minutes between everything...and no better time then now. He showed me his gear, especially his new one of a kind proto-type Beats by Dr. Dre head phones. " Only 2 people in the world have these, Me and David Guetta." Very cool.

So I start to play. Now most people would say...go and rock it...don't care what he's playing..try to shine. First, that's not why I DJ and there is a respect factor for ANY DJ, that you don't do that stuff if you open. Get the crowd going, but don't play any hits. So I can't say it was my best set or that I even played as hard as I usually do...but it wasn't about that. Hands were shook, you're standing next to and having conversations with the guy you waited your whole career to meet. Before I knew it, 12 came and he began.

For the next 3 hours, I stood behind watching, listening, and just having fun. The crowd was ok...not really the normal energy level that that place has. But at 12:01, that didn't matter at all. He started up and it was on. The booth was so loud and his #1 fan was rockin out next to him. From start to finish every song had his Skribble flavor on it....and it was clear why he is a legend. It was basically a private lesson/party that I had in the DJ booth. 3 hours flew by and before I knew it, I was switching over quickly and saying goodbye. I finished up the night and it was over. Overall, one of the greatest experiences I ever had. Besides the obvious DJ thing, he's just a good guy....if I could sum it up in one word...just like it was 10 years ago...INSPIRING.