Once A DJ

• Diggin' Deeper - Keb Darge's journey from taekwondo to the turntables

  Show some love: https://www.instagram.com/kebdarge/Keb Darge, a preeminent figure in the realm of Northern Soul and deep funk music, shares the intriguing narrative of his eclectic journey, traversing from the disciplined world of taekwondo to the vibrant dance floors of London. This dialogue illuminates Darge’s metamorphosis from a budding music enthusiast to a revered DJ and digger, celebrated for his extensive and rare collection of records. He recounts his formative experiences with music, detailing the pivotal moments that ignited his passion for Northern Soul and deep funk, ultimately leading to his esteemed reputation within the international music community. Darge’s reflections on the evolution of the music scene, coupled with his candid anecdotes, encapsulate the essence of a life devoted to the pursuit of rhythm and the art of dance. Join us as we explore the profound impact of Darge's contributions to this vibrant cultural tapestry.Keb Darge, a renowned figure in the realms of Northern Soul and deep funk, recounts his remarkable journey from a small Highland village in Scotland to the vibrant DJ scene in London. The episode delves into Darge's formative years, detailing his initial experiences with music, which began in his youth as he watched teenagers flock to local halls, dancing to the likes of The Kinks and The Beatles. This ignited a lifelong passion for rhythm and dance, leading him to discover Northern Soul through a friend at a taekwondo Christmas party. The discussion unfolds as Darge shares his transition from a novice dancer to an acclaimed DJ, highlighting the integral role of record digging in his career. He illustrates how he cultivated an extensive collection of rare records, becoming a notable digger in the UK, and eventually establishing a prominent reputation that led him to international stages. Darge's anecdotes vividly depict the colorful tapestry of the Northern Soul scene, emphasizing the communal spirit of dance and music that defined his experiences. The conversation further explores the evolution of the music landscape, including the emergence of deep funk and its intersection with his work at Ace Records, painting a picture of a dedicated artist who has continuously sought to share the magic of rare grooves with audiences around the globe.Mentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

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• Dan Greenpeace's Route Through Radio

  Dan Greenpeace, a distinguished luminary of the hip hop scene, shares his remarkable journey in this engaging podcast episode. As the principal hip hop DJ at XFM during its zenith, he has cultivated a wealth of experience in the music industry, spanning from DJing to A&R and concert promotion. In our conversation, he elucidates the origins of his moniker, recounts formative experiences in Leeds, and reflects on the evolution of hip hop culture. We delve into his tenure at XFM, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the station's hip hop landscape, as well as his transition into management and talent booking in Dubai. Throughout the discourse, Dan's passion for music and his insightful anecdotes illuminate the profound impact of hip hop on his life and career.Mentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

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• Father-Daughter Duo: Nicky Blackmarket and Millz on Life, Music, and Legacy

  Nicky on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nickyblackmarket/Millz on IG: https://www.instagram.com/millz.dj/Nicky Black Market, a pioneering figure in the drum and bass scene, shares his journey from a music-loving child to a legendary DJ and record shop owner. He recounts his upbringing, influenced by his mother's background in jazz and the vibrant music culture surrounding him. Nicky's passion for music was evident from an early age, leading him to explore various genres, including electro-funk and hip-hop, which ultimately paved the way for his entrance into the jungle and drum and bass scenes. The discussion delves into the importance of Black Market Records, his iconic shop that served as a hub for aspiring DJs and music lovers. Nicky emphasizes the shop's role in shaping the scene, providing a space for like-minded individuals to connect and discover new music. His insights on navigating the evolving music landscape, adapting to changes in technology, and the significance of community in the music industry resonate throughout the conversation.Millz, Nicky's daughter and part of the new generation of DJs, reflects on growing up in a household steeped in music. She shares his experiences of attending raves with his father, where he developed his own love for drum and bass. Mills describes the transition from being a casual observer to actively participating in the scene, highlighting the challenge of finding his unique style while also learning from his father's legacy. The episode touches on the generational shift in DJing, with Millz bringing a fresh perspective on speed mixing and audience engagement. His approach, influenced by modern trends, contrasts with Nicky's foundational experiences, showcasing how the drum and bass scene continues to evolve.The conversation also explores the importance of resilience and adaptability in maintaining relevance in the music industry. Nicky discusses the challenges he faced when transitioning from vinyl to digital platforms, emphasizing the need to embrace change rather than resist it. Mills adds that the contemporary audience demands a fast-paced experience, leading him to experiment with quicker transitions in his sets. Both father and son express their passion for music and the joy it brings, underscoring how their shared love for the genre continues to foster a deep connection between them. As they navigate their individual paths in the industry, they embody the spirit of innovation while honoring their roots, making for a compelling discussion on the past, present, and future of drum and bass.Mentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

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• Bestival and Beyond: Rob da Bank on Festivals, DJ Culture, and Wellness

  Robby on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robdabank1973/Slomo Wellness: https://slomo.me/Rob da Bank joins Adam in a captivating conversation that delves into his diverse journey through music, wellness, and festival culture. With over three decades of experience, Rob reflects on his early influences, from playing the trombone in a brass band to discovering the vibrant Manchester music scene. He shares insights into his significant role in launching the iconic Bestival festival and how it transformed the landscape of boutique festivals in the UK. The discussion also explores his passion for wellness, including his ventures into meditation, sound baths, and contrast therapy with the innovative sauna experiences he has created. Listeners will find inspiration in Rob's dedication to melding creativity with health, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and varied life in the music and wellness industries.Exploring the multifaceted journey of Rob Da Bank reveals a life punctuated by musical milestones, transformative experiences, and an unwavering commitment to community wellness. Rob reminisces about his upbringing in a small village, where musical influences were ever-present through family and local bands. His early forays into playing instruments like the trombone and piano laid the groundwork for a burgeoning passion for music that shifted from classical to the vibrant pop culture of the 80s. This shift propelled him into the world of DJing during his teens, where he began to blend various genres, epitomizing the eclectic spirit that would later define his career. Rob emphasizes the value of musical education, acknowledging how it shaped his understanding of composition and rhythm, critical elements that would serve him throughout his professional life.As his career evolved from DJing to journalism, Rob found himself at the epicenter of the UK music scene in the 90s, where he garnered invaluable experiences interviewing artists and attending legendary club nights. His work in music journalism provided a unique platform to connect with influential figures, ultimately leading to the conception of Bestival—a groundbreaking festival that combined diverse musical acts with immersive experiences. Not only did Rob share the challenges of orchestrating such a large-scale event, but he also pointed out the creative risks involved in maintaining relevance in an ever-evolving festival landscape. The conversation meanders through the festival's growth, its eventual decline, and the birth of Camp Bestival, showcasing Rob's adaptability and vision in navigating changes within the music and festival industries.Rob's transition into wellness signifies a profound evolution of his personal and professional ethos. He delves into his latest venture, Slow Mo, which aims to revolutionize the wellness experience through contrast therapy. By blending saunas and ice baths, he seeks to create communal spaces that foster connection and healing. Rob passionately discusses the physical and mental health benefits of these practices, emphasizing their accessibility and potential to enhance everyday life. His vision for the future of wellness reflects a desire to create shared experiences that transcend traditional boundaries, inviting a wider audience to embrace the transformative power of self-care. Ultimately, this episode encapsulates Rob Da Bank's dynamic life journey—an exploration of sound, community, and wellness, all interwoven into a narrative of growth and connection.Companies mentioned in this episode: Bestival Sunday Best Worldwide FM Wall of Sound Music Magazine KISS FM Big Chill Boomtown Secret Garden Party ...

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• The Nostalgia King Skeme Richards on Music, Culture, and Memories

  Website/blog: https://nostalgiaking.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/skemerichards/Mixes: https://soundcloud.com/HotpeasandbuttaPhilly legend Skeme Richards dives deep into the rich tapestry of music culture, exploring the intersection of funk, hip hop, and the art of DJing. As he recounts his formative years growing up in a city pulsating with musical heritage, Skeme illustrates how funk, soul, and disco served as the soundtrack to his childhood. His parents and grandparents instilled a love for music that would eventually define his career. He reflects on the rich cultural landscape of Philadelphia, highlighting the importance of Philadelphia International Records in the development of disco and the communal spirit found in local block parties. These experiences not only shaped his identity as a DJ but also sparked a lifelong passion for collecting and preserving music. The conversation delves deeper into Skeme's experiences as a DJ and collector, emphasizing the joy of digging for rare vinyl records. He discusses the evolving music scene and the resurgence of funk, particularly in Japan, where he has found a second home among fellow collectors and enthusiasts. Skeme's belief in the importance of lineage and honoring those who paved the way for future generations is a recurring theme throughout the episode. He shares anecdotes about his interactions with hip hop legends and how these relationships have enriched his understanding of music. Skeme's philosophy on DJing transcends mere performance; it's about creating a meaningful connection with the audience through the music he plays. As the episode culminates, listeners are treated to Skeme's insights on the balance between commercial appeal and artistic integrity in DJing. He challenges the notion that commercial music lacks authenticity, asserting that many of the beloved tracks we cherish were once commercial hits. By embracing both the underground and the mainstream, Skeme demonstrates how DJs can navigate the music landscape while staying true to their roots. His unwavering dedication to music as an art form and cultural expression resonates throughout the dialogue, making this episode a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and reflections on the power of music to inspire and connect.Mentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

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