October 19, 2009 (Issue #2) – RICH:
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
RICH: When I think about my experience, I have to bring back the times when I spun at the basement downtown known as “The Ohm Lounge.” Those who experienced it know what I’m talking about! But seriously, it has been a good one. I gained a lot of recognition starting from 1998 to the present. I’ve landed a lot of gigs not only here locally but out of town as well. Presently, I only spin here in the Sun City. There is nothing like spinning here. This is home!
ECB: What got you started?
RICH: "Beat Street the movie. There is a scene where the local DJ throws down track after track and gets all the people in the club going. B-Boys breaking, B-girls dancing and people clapping! Man, it was dope! That started it all for me…. I was probably around 14 or 15yrs old.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
RICH: The party kids are still here, promoters are still here and the vibe…..well, it seems to change all the time. If we can get the drugs out, our scene will stay strong!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
RICH: A time capsule man!! It is embracing our scene right now. People need to contribute and recognize that these things might not last.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
RICH: It was awesome. I saw new faces and met new people! I had a blast! It was a good experience getting down side by side with Kid Data!!! A must do again!!
ECB: You are a member of one of the most respected oldskool DJ crews in El Paso, K-Krew. What is that experience like? What happened to K-Krew?
RICH: The K-Krew Kollective is Vinn-e, Dann-e, Bionic and myself. We got booked at almost every party back in the day and spun at gigs here and out of town. We had so much fun!! Were not gone, we are all family men and are taking care of that at the moment. Personally, I have got something planned for next year! We will be out there soon!!!!
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Anthony Data:
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
Anthony Data: It is almost impossible to describe the feeling you get from seeing the crowd in front of you, getting down to the tunes that you carefully pick out and put together just for them. It is extremely addictive and is my own personal drug that I want to experience over and over again! The kids in El Paso, depending on the crowd, can really have an appreciation for the noise we make and I love them for that.
ECB: What got you started?
I went to a party at the X-Factory in the late 90’s and saw Anthony Pappa rip it up. Since then, I’ve been hooked. A friend of mine had belt drive turntables that he pretty much left at my house and I spent hours upon hours every day teaching myself. I’d even wake up 15-30 minutes early to get in a few tracks before school and as soon as Iíd get back it was straight to DJing for 2 or 3 hours.
ECB: Whatís your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
Anthony Data: The scene went from almost being gone to flourishing now. I’m grateful that we have a pretty large scene and that promoters are working hard to bring down the big names, but it is lacking in so many aspects. The kids are eager to go to events, but the support and love for the local talent from most promoters and party kids isnít there. We have a population of over 600,000, more than MIAMI, yet we can’t have international DJs come from EP!? We definitely have world class talent here, we just need the support!!! I think the main problem is that most kids don’t treat this like a culture, as most larger cities do. This is just something for the kids here to do on the weekend. In other places, people make EDM their life. The vibe has definitely changed, though. I’d say there are a wider variety of social groups that attend events now. Instead of seeing masses of raver kids, you see jocks, preps, college kids, and an array of other individuals that would have never attended events several years back.
Oh, and promoters, the kids are ready for something new!!! Diversify the music!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
Anthony Data: I think it is exactly what El Paso needs. One unbiased, truthful source of information from individuals that truly appreciate EDM and have been involved with the scene for many years. The level of professionalism in the magazine is unmatched in EP. Plus, it also gives the EDM scene a voice instead of letting all other media outlets misrepresent us.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
Anthony Data: F*****G BOMB! All the DJs brought their best and I got to spin with several DJs that I’ve looked up to since I was a party kid: De La and DJ Rich. Being able to tag team with one of my inspirations was an amazing experience. I have so much respect for them. DJ Rich is a legend in El Paso and I have learned so much from watching him spin at events. That, combined with the fact that the kids were getting down like mad men during most of the night was the perfect example of why I love doing what I do.
ECB: What’s it like being the editor for ECB?
Anthony Data: It is an extremely demanding, yet rewarding endeavor. I’ve had the opportunity to start something new with some amazing and talented individuals that truly love everything about the EDM scene, and you can see that expressed in the final product we put out. Perla Parra, the creative director and founder of ECB, asked me to join the team as a writer when I expressed interest in contributing. Eventually, I became more involved and Perla offered the Editor position to me. I was more than eager to take on the challenge and I am extremely grateful for the chance to be a part of this!!
ECB: I understand you are starting up a new initiative. Can you elaborate on what Thump Lab is?
Anthony Data: Thump Lab is the answer to the underground EDM scene here in El Paso. No insult to any promoters in EP (especially since this isn’t geared to any one in particular) but they have their own set goals and priorities and there are many things not being done in the scene. I’d like to see that change. There is so much talent out there not on the Top 100 DJ List that have not been to El Paso in years. I know the kids in EP would love it if only they had a chance to be exposed to it. I’d like to see Drum’n’Bass, Trance, and true House (Iím talking that funky-jazzy-disco-samba sh*t we use to have here) headliners here on a semi regular basis.
The second aspect is the Thump Lab Technicians. K-Krew was once the most respected DJ crew in El Paso. I’d like to bring something like that back and compile a group of extremely talented DJs and producers to form a like minded and productive collective. Many people have ties and politics that keep them from being able to perform at certain events/venues or being a part of other DJ crews. I want the Thump Lab Technicians to not have any ties to any one group and I would like to have DJs from different collectives/promotion groups that spin various genres come together FOR the artists.
There are several other things in the works for Thump Lab, but you guys will have to wait for that. ;)
ECB: What was it like spinning for El Paso’s only underground EDM music show, Full Frequency, on 89.5 FM KXCR?
Anthony Data: Full Frequency was a huge staple in the underground scene here for so many years. On the occasion, certain headliners would also spin at the show if they were in town Friday nights. I remember they even had Keoki there once.
Spinning on there was one of my most memorable years. Everyone there was so easy going and so willing to help everyone out any way possible. All the true underground kids knew exactly what it was and would tune in to support every week. Good times, good times.
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ZELLER & CROMEENS
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: It’s been one crazy ride, but it has also been the greatest experience of our lives. We’ve seen this scene collapse on itself and be reborn bigger and better than ever. We’ve played some crazy parties and met some amazing people who have become lifelong friends. Hopefully we’ve touched some people’s lives with music. We’d have to quote Cevin Fisher to describe the experience; “Music saved my life, if it wasn’t for the music I don’t know what we’d do”
ECB: What got you started?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: When we stumbled across the rave scene in the late 90s, we were absolutely blown away by the people, the vibe, and most of all, the music. We were instantly hooked. Zeller bought a pair of belt drive turntables and a cheap Radio Shack mixer and we’d fool around for hours a day learning how to spin. We would listen to mix CDs by Sasha and John Digweed and would try to replicate what they were doing because, at the time, their mixes seemed so much longer, thought out and programmed than anyone else out there. After about a year of practicing, we met DJ Blue and the D’n’B Guru. They liked what we were doing and booked us to play their first party, Twisted, in 2000. When we got in front of the crowd†and did our thing, we knew that this was where we belonged and that we’d be doing this for the rest of our lives. The rest is history.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: El Paso is a great town. The kids have always been very enthusiastic. Even during the years where only 20 or 30 kids were coming out, they always got down. As far as promoters, we have to give huge props to everyone at SMG for rebuilding the scene and making it bigger and better than ever before. We owe so much to them, especially Adam (SMG). He has supported us and believed in us since the beginning. We like that other promoters are starting to contribute as well, but we still see some promoters practicing the same shady tactics that made the scene tank once before. It would be nice to see other promoters raise the bar like SMG. It would also be nice to see all promoters work together to make this scene even better than what it is now. We have a good thing going here in EP. Lets not flush it†down the tubes like before!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: We love the magazine! We finally got to check out a hardcopy at the Deadmau5 pool party. We’ve only seen the online version until then. The articles are well written, and the collages of pictures are stunning! We really hope the magazine blows up and becomes widely circulated. It’s about time the scene had a magazine pointing the spotlight at what’s going on here in EP. Cheers to ECB!
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: A lot of people from the old days came out to the party. People we hadn’t seen in years. It was awesome to see their faces again. Seeing the mighty Rich on the decks was nostalgic and downright badass. Rich and Vinn-E are the godfathers of El Paso DJs. They were playing parties when we first started going and falling in love with the scene, so any chance to check them out is always great. We liked the new location of the stage and the lighting and sound were awesome. Our set was only 20 minutes before the owners decided to shut the club down so that was a bit of a downer, but we’re very honored to have been a part of that party.
ECB: ECB would like to take this opportunity to apologize to both Zeller and Cromeens for their set being cut at our launch party. They showed up early to support the other DJs and they stayed late to spin the last spot and keep the party going. There were plenty of kids who were staying and getting down to their set, yet due to some circumstances with the owners of D’Club not making any more money for the rest of the night, we were forced to shut down the event. Sorry again, guys.
ECB: What inspired you guys to team up and perform the majority of your sets together?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: We’ve always played music together. We had a band in high school and we learned to spin together. Plus we’re best friends and partners in crime. We’ve always complimented each other musically and challenged each other to be the best we can be on the decks. People have come to expect the two of us to play together, so why not give them what they want?
ECB: How has the experience been different from doing solo sets?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: Well first off, it’s great if you need to use the restroom. No more searching for the longest track you have and then hauling ass to the bathroom and back. It also helps if you’ve got people coming up to you and chatting your ear off while you’re trying to mix. Whoever’s not on the decks can handle that as well as any technical difficulties that may be encountered while the other of us focuses solely on mixing. It’s also the closest we can get to objectively experiencing one of our sets. When one of us is mixing and we give the other goose bumps, itís almost like being a party kid in the crowd, just enjoying the party. It can be a little nerve racking as well. If one of us screws up, we both look bad. Not knowing what the other is going to leave you with when itís your turn to mix puts you on the spot and lights a fire under your ass. But, as always, two heads are often better than one and an extra set of hands to turn on effects or cut samples helps a lot too.
ECB: You guys have gotten a lot of play and recognition lately. What’s your response to it all?
ZELLER & CROMEENS: We’re so grateful to have been a part of this scene for so long and to still be apart of it. Sharing the stage with some of the biggest names of the game is something we’d always hoped for but never thought would happen. We’ve been blessed and we try to remind ourselves of that every day. We were once kids in the crowd who had our minds blown and our lives changed by DJs. If we can give that back to just one person in the crowd, then thatís a reward better than any other perk of being a DJ!
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MOI
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
MOI: Being a DJ here in the Sun City has been phenomenal. It has given me the opportunity to meet a lot of great people as well as the opportunity to transmit my vibe to our community via my music.
ECB: What got you started?
MOI: I first became interested in DJing after I went to my first rave party. I believe it was Mark Farina at the X Factory. After experiencing the amazing power of electronic music first hand, I wanted to give some one the same experience Mark Farina gave me. It was different than anything I had ever seen before. I was immediately hooked. It also helped that my first two friends in the scene where Prox and Mike Anthony. Both were pretty big DJís in EP back then.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
MOI: I think the EDM scene here in EP has changed a lot since my day. I actually left to Phoenix, Arizona for about 3 years and in that time the scene totally changed. I remember the days when the rave scene was a bit more underground. When warehouses where used instead of clubs, where no alcohol was allowed and when the parties lasted till 6 or 7 am! Now, itís a bit different. Most of the parties are held at clubs and the new kids have a different vibe. Donít get me wrong. I am glad that we are now seeing big name artist come to our city, but itís just different. One thing that has really changed is the diversity of the musical spectrum at events. I recall hearing all types of music in one night; from house, trance, progressive, breaks and D&B. Now, itís all pretty monotone. The only genres at events now are techno and variations of house music. I think that it would benefit the scene if promoters would include various genres. It would give these new kids a chance to experience a whole range of music.
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
MOI: I love the magazine. I think it encapsulates a specific moment in time and also provides some of us exposure that we otherwise would not have. I have purchased all editions and will continue to in the future. The articles are awesome and the pictures speak for themselves.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
MOI: I enjoyed every minute of it.
ECB: So you are the head honcho of El Paso’s largest and most successful EDM record label. How’s everything going on the label front?
MOI: The record label is going great! We have a whole assortment of talent from all over the world. It’s hard to keep digital labels on Beatport. If you donít produce sales they’ll cut you off. Luckily, between my partner Vic (from Phoenix) and I, we have been able to put out various successful releases that have kept us afloat since 2005.
ECB: What can we expect from Binge in the future?
MOI: We have some really great projects coming up, including an album from Macrodot coming out soon as well as many techno and tech house releases.
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XENO9
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
XENO9: It’s been a ton of fun, especially in the last year or two. This past year has been intense and even I can’t believe everything that has happened. I’m still amazed I’ve been able to play at events with 1000 to 2000 people in attendance! That has to be one of the best feelings in the world. So to those of you reading this, THANK YOU for all the love and support you have shown me each and every time I play.
ECB: What got you started?
XENO9: I love all genres of trance, but specifically hard trance. Since no one was playing it at that time I decided to start buying records and learn in 2003. Since then, I have progressed to playing any and all genres of trance.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
XENO9: I think El Paso has a very unique vibe to it compared to other scenes. I love when it’s united and in a state of peace. It has a lot of potential to become larger and well known throughout the world if everyone would work together. I also think the party kids and promoters here need to support their locals a bit more though. When I have gone to other scenes it almost seems like the locals are more appreciated compared to El Paso, both by the promoters and the fans. For example, Cromeens & Zellar were ripping it at Deadmau5, yet the crowd was chanting “Deadmau5” during their set! That was beyond rude!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
XENO9: The ECB mag is pretty dope. Keep it up ECB!
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
XENO9: I had fun going crazy up on the decks! It’s not too often I play PsyTrance and I had a lot of fun doing another tag set with Moi.
ECB: How does it feel to be one of El Paso’s biggest names in trance?
XENO9: Seriously, is that how I’m thought of? WoOohOoOo!!! Ha ha. If that’s true then it feels great and I am honored to be thought of that way.
ECB: What’s it like spinning in that gas mask?
XENO9: HOT! I mean REALLY HOT! I wear it until it becomes unbearable or I’m sweating too much under it. It’s an alter ego thing though so I love wearing it when I play dark or harder genres. I’ve just always been a weirdo like that. Ha ha.
ECB: You’ve been getting a lot of play in New Mexico. How is that going so far?
XENO9: I’ve made a lot of new friends and fans. It feels really great to be able to play not only in El Paso, but also regional areas. I hope I keep getting booked in the future, not only in New Mexico, but hopefully other states as well.
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LUIS OJEDA
ECB: What has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
Luis Ojeda: It’s been very entertaining. I’ve had the opportunity to improve on my DJ skills spinning here in my hometown. With the electronic music scene expanding, there have been a lot of rewards.
ECB: What got you started?
Luis Ojeda: This is no joke. I had a dream one night that I was a listening to Techno music before I even knew what it was. When I woke up, I started investigating it. I bought my first trance/techno compilation at a music store in ’92/93. While skimming through a music magazine from L.A., Ca., I stumbled upon a couple of pics of DJs spinning and knew I had to pursue it.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
Luis Ojeda: There’s a lot of potential here to really grow as a culture. There is also a lot of good talent that we all need to acknowledge. With everyoneís involvement, we can really establish a nightlife that pertains to everyone’s liking and providing great music, more DJ bookings and more events!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
Luis Ojeda: The magazine was a great concept to implement in order to help give our culture more exposure and educate the audience about the electronic music scene. It started at a perfect time as the scene was beginning to blow up.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
Luis Ojeda: I knew that when Robbie Morrow and I were up on that stage we had to step it up and perform to our fullest. I believe we accomplished that mission that night. We did very well tag teaming and feeding off each others energy.
ECB: What has it been like writing for ECB?
Luis Ojeda: It’s been a great opportunity to write for ECB. It helped expand myself as an individual and got me more involved in the music scene, meeting new people and improving my writing skills.
ECB: Can you explain what New Heights Entertainment is and how everything is going with it?
Luis Ojeda: News Heights Entertainment is my DJ booking company and indie record label that I started to help promote myself as a DJ and get more exposure in the music industry. I wanted to pursue my passion while at the same time learn the business aspect. Everything is running smooth so far. I already have DJ Robbie Morrow as a member.
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ROBBIE MORROW
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
ROBBIE MORROW: I’ve had a good run here in El Paso. I started DJing in 2006 and shortly after I got offered my first gig at Fat Marie’s. I’ve had tons of fun spinning every gig since then.
ECB: What got you started?
ROBBIE MORROW: I’ve always liked electronic music. Since back in the Power 102 days, lol. My buddy and I got a hold of some belt drive Numarks. We would buy vinyl off the internet, which included such genres as U.K. Hard House, Drum & Bass, and Trance. It wasnít until later on that I started spinning progressive, tech and electro.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
ROBBIE MORROW: The kids are nutz!! They really know how to party. There have been shady parties and promoters, but I guess that comes with the scene. I really think El Paso has a very good scene right now. There are those promoters who do know what they are doing, and are keeping things alive in our underground music scene.
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
ROBBIE MORROW: I think it’s great!!! You guys have really out done yourselves. Giving everybody good exposure. I give you guy’s two thumbs up.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
ROBBIE MORROW: I loved it. I had an awesome time spinning with Ojeda. Our music goes well with one an other. I got a super good vibe as I walked in.
ECB: You recently joined the Lunar Meltdown DJ collective. How did that come about?
ROBBIE MORROW: Xeno9 and I had been talking about it for a while.
ECB: You are also a member of the Black Light Collective. Can you explain what BLP is?
ROBBIE MORROW: To me, Black light Project is a brotherhood of DJs that have come together for one cause, and that is to get each others music exposed. BlacklightProject.com is a web site where one can stream and download DJ sets by other local DJs such as DJ Spy, Deftech and Zeller & Cromeens.
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JOEY SANTOS
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
Joey Santos: My experience has been varied. I’ve had phenomenal nights while there are some that I’d like wiped clean from my memory, ìEternal Sunshineî style. I’m part of a hand full of those willing to push things in a different direction so I’ve met a lot of resistance. Every so often when all the stars align, everything is right, and all the right heads are there, magic happens. I’ve met some heads that are in the trenches for this music and I’ll take all the memories with me wherever the wind blows me to next.
ECB: What got you started?
Joey Santos: What got me started was the effect that the music had on me and my need for a creative outlet at the time.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
Joey Santos: The scene here, in some ways, is vastly different now than it was when I was just starting out. One thing that has come full circle is the amount of drug use. Except this time around it seems so random and frivolous. At least the party kids ten years ago were willing to try something different, music-wise. The promoters react to what the heads demand. So they, for the most part, aren’t taking risks with their lineups and booking talent from a variety of genres. But the “vibe” is very much alive.
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
Joey Santos: EP needs something like ECB. Something by and for party kids. It is informative and not just a bunch of pics thrown together for posterity
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
Joey Santos: I thought the lineup was extremely well though out and really reflected the diversity of talent that the borderland has to offer. We need to have more of these. The sound, lights and visuals were top notch, which added to the vibe. The set Sol-B and I did was well received. We were blown away with the response we got. We were set on playing Breaks and were reluctant to drop any Drum & Bass on THAT crowd, but I transitioned very smoothly from one to the other and they kept dancing! There were so many tunes I wanted to drop because I really wanted to show people the full spectrum of D&B, but when youëre up there time flies. I wish more promoters would’ve been there to see that there are heads that are interested in other sounds. We were surprised by the response.
ECB: What’s it like being a writer for ECB magazine?
Joey Santos: I’m enjoying being able to voice my opinions in this medium. It seems people tend to take you more seriously this way. I just want to enlighten people as well as turn them on to different forms of sound and rhythm. It’s a lot like what I did during my five year run on college radio, so it is nice to be able to do that again. Thanks to Perla for bringing me on board!
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Sol-B:
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
Sol-B: A lot of people say there’s nothing good here in El Paso, but over the past 12 years of DJing, I would say the Sun City (including Las Cruces and Juarez) has been good to me. This area has so much talent. Iím glad to have experienced it all. Thanks ya’ll.
ECB: What got you started?
Sol-B: I had a couple of friends that were into the electronic scene back in the day. I went to a couple of real raves here in town and I got hooked. The music was intense, people were friendly and everyone was out to have a good time.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
Sol-B: The scene is not the same as it use to be and it never will be. That’s just the way things go. It’s the age of the digital DJ, where anyone can be a DJ now. To me, there’s nothing like a 12inch piece of plastic blasting out some funky beats. It’s becoming an endangered species. Last time I was at a two room show, a track was playing in one room and when I walked to the other side, the same song was playing. We need a little more variety. Party kids and the vibe are all the same. You have your good ones and you have your bad ones. Iíve noticed the scene has gone more mainstream to the club and is getting difficult to keep underground, but what can you do when big brother is always watching you.
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
Sol-B: The magazine is great. It’s something outside the box, especially for here in El Paso. People need to know about this scene, the DJs and the talent here in this region. I especially like the pictures.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
Sol-B: I loved it! Over the years I’ve come to enjoy playing a bit of everything. I’ve played a couple of time at the D’Club and I had the crowd bumpin. I was dropping some breaks, tech house and house, and the kids were digging it. So of coarse, I saw an opportunity to play some DnB. I just had to. I have never emptied a room so fast in my life. It was like the cops showed up. When you guys asked for me and Joey Santos to tag,we were a bit hesitant on what to play. We decided to go with half breaks and half DnB. The crowd loved it. Thanks again for that opportunity.
ECB: You have had one of the longest running weekly events ever put together in El Paso. What was that experience like?
Sol-B: At first, it was hard getting the people in there and trying to do something different. But after pushing and pushing, it finally got going. It was something I enjoyed and will never forget. Before you knew it, I had so many DJs, we had to do two rooms. I also didn’t want to limit the DJs to what they could play. It was great because you could go inside and hear some house, electro, or minimal and then go outside and hear some drum and bass, trance or breaks. Where can you do that now? It was good while it lasted. I met a lot of good people and I hope it was as memorable an experience for you as it was for me.
ECB: We miss Loaded Wednesdays! Any plans to put together another weekly?
Sol-B: Yes and no. I’m always looking out for something good. Something different with that underground feel, but I just havenít found it yet. Till then, I help out here and there, where ever I can. As soon as it does happen, I’ll let everyone know.
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OctavioPD
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
OctavioPD: I’ve spent most of my DJing years in Juarez for Pastilla Digital. A few years back, I did the occasional stint at the infamous Casa Verde weekly with the rest of the PD crew. It was always a fun, good crowd and Sol-B is a pleasure to play for. Recently, I’ve played a few times at Soho. Iím always up to help out my mate Vinn-E. Props to them for supporting the local talent.
ECB: What got you started?
OctavioPD: In my freshman year, I met Vic-Flo who was one of the promoters of the underground rave scene, when it was all about wearing Adidas and wide bottom jeans. He gave me one of his mix tapes. From then on, thatís all that I listened too. Then, when Steve PD took interest in spinning, he bought some Technics and we were on them all the time. I never really went to class. I just stayed in my dorm teaching myself to beat match. One day, we received a call from DJ Anthony (SunCity Hustlers), asking if we wanted to spin in Juarez for an Eclipse event. The guys who where originally booked couldnít make it to the gig and cancelled. After that, they kept asking us to play more gigs for them. At the beginning of the following year, Eclipse phased out and Pastilla Digital was born. And that, boys and girls, is my story.
ECB: Whatís your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
OctavioPD: Itís not what is used to be. Thatís for sure. I remember people going to parties because they wanted to dance (myself included). It was great, at times, to sit down and watch kids get down with some serious steps and moves. Nowadays, all you see is peeps standing, swaying back and forth, with sunglasses nonetheless. I donít remember there being fights either, but I guess that happens when you serve alcohol too. As far as the vibe goes, I donít think there is one anymore. Itís not considered a culture and PLUR isnít practiced. There isnít any. Promoters have become business men, havenít they? I can respect that. Itís their money. But what I canít stand is the lack of detail to an event. Especially when it comes to the sound system. I give 100% when I play when Iím booked, but sometimes they canít enjoy it when the speakers are popping!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
OctavioPD: The mag is fresh. I’d like to see more in the moment photos and less people posing for the camera. I like the layout of the webpage, and the calendar that has the local events happening.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
OctavioPD: I really enjoyed playing back to back with Steve PD. It has been years since we played together. When we first started out, a lot of our gigs were together. One thing that never fails when you are playing after someone else is that when itís your time to go on, the DJ prior to you ALWAYS wants to play one more song. If you ask me, itís a lack of respect for a fellow deejay. If your set time is 9-10, that doesnít mean you play your last track at 10pm. Your last track was at 9:55 bud. Now move over and let me do my thang!
ECB: How long have you played for Pastilla and what is it like playing for them?
OctavioPD: I’ve been playing for PD since 2001. I’m really grateful to be a part of PD. All of us have respect for one another. We are like family.
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WhoOCares
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
WhoOCares: At times it has been rocky, but overall itís been better than I’ve expected.
I started as a bedroom DJ and didn’t think I’d go any further than that, but El Paso has overwhelmingly supported me.
ECB: What got you started?
WhoOCares: I’ve been an avid music fan since I can remember. I remember staying up late Fri/Sat nights listening to some of my big brothers cassettes (YES, cassettes lol). He would go out a lot but would leave the radio recording some of the local DJs spinning. Ever since then I’ve been hooked. So in part, I guess my big bro got me started.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
WhoOCares: I canít complain. Some promoters have given me the opportunity to spin for them, and I canít thank them enough. As far as the vibe/crowd goes, it has improved 10 fold in the past few years, but with that comes ignorance. I can’t knock on the kids though. They are just out there to have fun. I just wish they’d do their homework on the great DJs that come to EP to play for us. Don’t be a follower, lead your own way. Going to the same spots can get a bit repetitive though. I’m sure some of you feel the same way!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
WhoOCares: You guys are doing it big! What can I say. You all have some dope people working behind it and it’s not just a normal magazine. This mag represents our scene. This is a small window into our world, as I like to put it.
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
WhoOCares: I had a great time. Thank you guys for considering me and inviting me. RDJ and I had a pretty early timeslot, but I enjoy spinning. Whether it’s in front of 50 or 500, let me at em! I hope we can someday do it again.
ECB: Can you explain what OnKue is?
WhoOCares: OnKue started as a DJ Crew, but has since grown into a family. That’s the best way I can describe it. We all support each other and support the scene as much as we can. To us, OnKue is a way of life. We’ve been around for quite some time but have been in “hibernation mode” for a while. Give us a few and you’ll be hearing more about us and our projects.
ECB: You’ve been getting some play at several large events. How is that going for you?
WhoOCares: I HAVE BEEN ENJOYING IT TO THE FULL EXTENT! I have been given the opportunity to open for some of the biggest names that have come to El Paso. With that in mind, I’d like to thank SMG Events! Keep doing your thing, you’ve got my full support! And of course I can’t do an interview without thanking the people. They have been awesome in supporting me and I want them to know that I appreciate it a LOT! Without them, us DJs are nothing, right? It’s a very humbling experience and I don’t take it for granted.
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Dj Sebern
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
Sebern: El Paso is a great place to be a EDM dj. There is plenty of EDM weeklys and there is usually multiple events going on every weekend. So there is plenty of opprotunitys for up and coming dj’s to get heard!
ECB: What got you started?
Sebern: I got started when i realized that just listening to the music wasnt enough. I had to take it to the next step, learn how to get a crowd jumping and tell stories with the music i play.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
Sebern: The El Paso scene is very diverse!! there is people who love minimal, people who love electro, people who love all forms of EDM. This makes the scene alot more interesting for promoters and dj’s. The vibes vairy completely form event to event, if the crown is loving the music, the venue is welcoming, and the production is up to par, then vibes are flowing good. Once the crowd loses interst in the music, the venues gets to 110 degrees and the sound or lighting suck, then the event is shot!!
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
Sebern: ECB is awesome.. DUH! it not only exposes local talent.. but also gives people the opprotunity to look into and catch some pics from events they missed, gives local promoters the opprotunity to get their names out there. ecbmagazine.com also gives promoters and club owners the chance to post weekly or upcoming events so party people can know whats up!!
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
Sebern: ahhhh… the ECB launch party i had a blast!! me and WHooCAres went 3v3, then after us was Robbie Morrow and Luis Ojeda, The whole night i was with my friend, drinks were flowing, and the music was bumpin!! what could be better?!
ECB: What has it been like being a promoter for Toxic Beats?
Sebern: ToBe is the s*#@!! WOOP WOOP!! All we are is a group of friends that love EDM, hanging out, and having a good time!!
ECB: Anything we can expect from ToBe in the near future?
Sebern: Same as always!!! quality events whether they are small or large, good music, good vibes, and beautiful people!! =)
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WHIZKID
ECB: So, what has your experience been like being a DJ here in the Sun City?
WhizKid: Honestly, my experience has been a very positive one. I appreciate when people come up to me and tell me that they liked my set because I try to give the crowd as much of myself as possible. I just want to be a DJ that truly represents El Paso in a positive light, and I hope to climb up there and become a legendary DJ here in the Sun City….
ECB: What got you started?
WhizKid: Anthony Data got me started. He made it look so easy (which it isn’t) and fun (which it is)! The way he put his records together and created this funky atmosphere around him truly inspired me to do the same. So there I went to get some records of my own and try to do that same thing.
ECB: What’s your take on the EDM scene here (party kids, promoters, vibe, etc.) in El Paso?
WhizKid: I really want to go out and hear more drum’n’bass! I think that there needs to be more exposure of different types of electronic music so that all these kids can hear and explore what beauty there is in all forms of it.
ECB: What do you think about the magazine?
WhizKid: I LOVE IT!!!! I appreciate all the pictures of all the people that go out and support their local DJs, and the articles are really informative! All the writers†have really good writing abilities and can really get into the vibe of a party that they are writing about or make you think about an opinion they are exploring. Thanks guys!
ECB: How was your experience spinning at the ECB launch party?
WhizKid: The party itself was really good! The vibe was pretty relaxed and everyone seemed to be getting into the music. I was actually super nervous because honestly, that was the largest party I’ve ever played at and I was tag teaming with De La. But I truly appreciated all the people that danced to all the DJs. One of the things that really surprised me was when Joey Santos and Sol-B went from breaks to Drum’n’Bass! It went really well for them and I know I was one of the kids in the crowd dancing right along with that set.
ECB: We know you don’t like to pull the female card and that you have worked for everything you have gained without using it, but the people want to know, what’s it like being the best female DJ in the Sun City?
WhizKid: What!? I wouldn’t go as far as to say that I’m the best female DJ in El Paso. I know that there is a diamond in the rough just waiting to be discovered. But I am grateful to DJs that actually compliment, listen to my set and give me any feedback as far as things I need to improve on. I’m always watching the boys and listening because I feel that I need to keep up and be just as good, if not better than the boys, and I still have a lot of work to do. But thanks!
ECB: Is there anything you want to say to aspiring female DJ’s?
WhizKid: Yes, that they shouldn’t be scared. I sometimes mess up on stage and it sounds really bad. Then there are times that I don’t and my set sounds really good. I hope that more females come out of the woodwork and play what they want to hear. Come on ladies!
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