When did you first start DJing?
I started up around 8 years ago, by going to a DJ school. I figured, if I'm going to learn how to do this, I best start properly.
What initially got you into DJing? And has that changed?
A common answer I'm sure, but I just love my music, and loved the party scene. I always look up in awe at the DJ box, and thought to myself I could really do this. And just the thought, to be able to play tunes to move people to a state of euphoria, or at least give them goosebumps of sheer delight became an art I wanted to be apart of.
What started my drive is what is fueling it still. The day I lose that, will be the day I stop doing it...and I hope that will be never.
Describe your sound for those who haven't heard you DJ?
I like to call it a dirty rock electro house beat. Tunes that get you moving regardless of whether you're in a club hearing me live or at home banging out a CD and mopping the floor...it makes you wanna rock out!
You play at Family in The Valley/Brisbane a lot. What do you like the most about the club?
One of my favorite clubs, such a great space, they've put a lot of thought into the way the clubs laid out, and the sound and lighting is AWESOME. You would think you were in super club in Europe...very impressive
How did you come up with your DJ name Playmate?
HaHa. I get asked this a lot. Came about when I posed for Playboy....kidding!! Actually the idea was from a Wheels & Doll baby t-shirt that said "Playmate of the Year" I came across at the same time I was thinking of a name, Thought it was catchy and have stuck with it ever since. People most definitely remember it.
What's your biggest achievement so far in your career?
I'm going to have to say winning the Pioneer PRO DJ Search competition....for shiz!! To be judged not only by your peers, but a panel of industry greats as well.... and coming out triumphant, you can't help but be proud of the achievement and just knowing that you're not the only person that believes in your talent and passion for music..it's a great feeling.
What are you working on at the moment?
Essentially just getting more work...as much as the competition gives you new opportunities, and acclaims you as a Pioneer DJ Ambassador, it doesn't book you with more gigs...You still have to work your butt off with your music as well as all the other components that make up an artist, such as marketing, blogs, promo, PR, etc.
What's the funniest thing you have ever seen at a party?
Well after a few champers I'm known to be rather hilarious at a party. Ha ha. But apart from that there was one year I was at Parklife and was dared to body slam this massive massive Samoan Islander guy...I said ok bro and took up the challenge and just went for it, I must of caught him off guard because as I charged and went in for the kill I knocked him for a six and he fell into the the crowd with a massive thud... everyone couldn't stop laughing, including the Samoan dude (he must of been in shock), nor could believe I actually did it (note: no women, animals or children were injured in this activity)...and yes you can conclude that I am a brat.
Do you remember the very first song you fell in love with as a child?
I do indeed, it was Holiday by Madonna...I still even have the cassette tape of it...apart from her songs good ole Mads is an inspiration, still rocking it. Woot woot.
How has the art form of DJing changed since you started? And tell us about the new Pioneer CDJ 2000?
Well it's all digital pretty much now. I was so anti-digital for a long time, thinking it was a cheating art. But like explaining to your parents the advantages of a computer, you need to move with the times, otherwise you get left behind with everyone else who can't except change. I love digital now, the ease of transporting music and your ability to create your own music and tracks with minimal setup, and with Pioneer introducing the new species of the CDJ 2000, it's just become a whole lot better allowing you to play music from multiple sources like CD, DVD, USB and SD memory. Who would of thought I'd soon be able to wear my music I'm playing for a gig around my neck on a USB stick...unreal! But that's just one of the many many features these little puppies have to offer, they also showcase it's rekordbox software to help you manage your music and data files, a schweet full colour display screen, needle search/needle drop to quickly search a track, Hot Cue buttons, advanced new jog....so much to get completely excited about...I could go on and on but it's best to salivate over them yourselves and check them out at www.pioneer.com.au
Where do you hope to be in five years?
By then, the direction of Producing is on the cards without a doubt. A strange objective when I think about it. I never used to see myself as an musician/artist, and now that's all I think about....create, create, create. It's just so wicked to discover what you really want to do in your life, and absolutely enjoy it.
