Once A DJ

• 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 ...

  --------  

  1:12:35
• 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

  --------  

  2:03:59
• Disco Dreams: Nick Halkes Talks New Release and DJing Life

  Do It (Extended Mix) - Steve Mac & Nick Reach Up: https://www.traxsource.com/track/12986537/do-it-extended-mixNick Halkes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickhalkes/Nick Reach Up Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nick_reach_up/Nick Halkes a pivotal figure in the UK dance music scene, shares his extensive journey through the industry, discussing his collaborations, experiences, and the evolution of his sound. From his early days of DJing alongside Andy Smith to co-founding the influential label XL Recordings and after that Positiva. Nick reflects on the vibrant music culture of the late 80s and 90s. He details his learning curve in the DJing world, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience and mentorship, which shaped his skills. Nick recalls memorable moments, such as witnessing the birth of acid house and how it influenced his trajectory. He also dives into the significance of iconic venues and parties, like Freedom at Bagley’s, where he played a mix of emerging trance classics, cementing his reputation as a trendsetter. The conversation also covers his latest release, “Do It,” a collaboration with renowned house producer Steve Mac This track samples the classic ‘Do It to the Music’ by Raw Silk, showcasing Nick's ability to bridge the gap between nostalgia and contemporary dance music. He discusses the creative process behind the track, highlighting the importance of testing new material in a live setting, particularly during his Reach Up Disco Wonderland events. Nick's passion for making exclusive tracks that resonate with audiences shines through, as he emphasizes the joy of creating music that he can share with his fans. As the episode wraps up, Nick looks to the future, revealing plans for upcoming gigs and festivals. His enthusiasm for collaboration and innovation in music remains strong, as he prepares to explore new projects and continue his journey in the ever-evolving dance music landscape. This discussion not only celebrates his past achievements but also illuminates his forward-thinking approach to creativity, making it a must-listen for fans of electronic music.Mentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

  --------  

  1:08:39
• Looking for your digging stories!!!

  Get in touch: onceadjpodcast at gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/onceadjpodcast/A fresh update from the host of Once A DJ reveals a period of quietude due to personal circumstances, but excitement looms on the horizon with intriguing guests already lined up for the upcoming year. The host shares a candid acknowledgment of the challenges faced recently, including illness and fatigue, which is a common experience during this time of year. Yet, this reflective moment serves not only as an update but also as a call to the audience for engagement. The host expresses a desire to delve into the fascinating world of record collecting through listener-contributed stories, highlighting the unique experiences that can arise from digging for records. Listeners are encouraged to share their own memorable tales, whether they be humorous, poignant, or surprising, as the host recounts personal anecdotes that illustrate the unexpected treasures and encounters that can come from seeking out music. These stories, filled with personal triumphs and humorous mishaps, underscore the communal spirit of the podcast, inviting listeners to participate in the narrative. The episode promises a forthcoming compilation of these stories, providing an opportunity for fans to not only connect with the host but also with each other, creating a richer tapestry of the record-collecting journey. As the host gears up for a new season, the excitement builds around the potential for a vibrant exchange of experiences, with a shout-out to the community for their contributions, reinforcing the idea that every record collector has a story worth sharing. This episode serves as a bridge between the past year's reflections and the future's possibilities, setting the stage for a dynamic interaction that celebrates the passion for music and the stories that accompany it.

  --------  

  2:02
• Hudson & Wax On: Your Favourite Local DJs

  This episode features an engaging conversation with Wax On and his guest DJ Hudson, who share insights about their experiences in the world of DJing and music culture. They discuss the evolution of DJing, from the challenges of lugging around vinyl records to the convenience of digital setups like Serato. The conversation touches on the importance of community and mentorship within the DJ scene, highlighting how personal connections can lead to opportunities and growth. They also reflect on the impact of notable record shops and influential figures in their musical journeys, emphasizing the significance of sharing knowledge and music. With anecdotes about memorable gigs and the intricacies of curating a set, this episode offers a rich exploration of the art of DJing and the camaraderie it fosters among artists.Reaching the milestone of 50 episodes, the Once A DJ podcast presents an engaging discussion between Wax on and his DJ Hudson, whose influence on Hudson's DJing journey is both profound and personal. The episode opens with a nostalgic recollection of their early musical experiences in Leicester, where they were surrounded by a wealth of genres, thanks to their extensive family backgrounds. The guest's stories of growing up with an eclectic mix of records set the tone for a conversation rich in shared memories and musical history, laying the groundwork for the exploration of the evolution of DJing. As they reminisce, the two delve into the complexities and challenges of the DJing profession, discussing the transition from traditional vinyl to digital platforms like Serato. Hudson candidly shares his struggles with confidence during performances, often leaning on his guest for support in moments of self-doubt. This candid exchange highlights the importance of mentorship and community in the DJ world, reinforcing that the journey is often filled with ups and downs. The guest reflects on their own experiences of navigating the music scene, including memorable gigs, the vibrant Derby nightlife, and the nuances of performing at weddings, where balancing crowd favorites with personal expression becomes crucial. The conversation takes a contemporary turn as they assess the current state of DJing, particularly in relation to social media's impact on the craft. They discuss the need for authenticity and genuine connection in an increasingly performative landscape, where DJs often feel the pressure to present a certain image. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the essence of DJing as a lifelong journey of exploration, creativity, and connection, encouraging listeners to embrace their individuality and passion for music, regardless of the evolving trends in the industry.Takeaways: This episode celebrates the 50th episode milestone of the Once A DJ podcast, marking a significant achievement. DJing is a labor of love, with artists balancing personal passion and audience enjoyment. Understanding music history and sampling enhances a DJ's performance and connection with audiences. The evolution of DJing technology, like Serato, has transformed how DJs prepare sets. Mentorship plays a crucial role in a DJ's development, influencing their style and approach. Collective environments, such as cooperative radio stations, foster community and creativity among DJs. Links referenced in this episode:love.willsavetheday.fmdiscogs.comMentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

  --------  

  1:22:53

More Music podcastsMore Music podcasts

Trending Music podcasts

About Once A DJ