tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:/blogs/blog?p=1Blog2022-05-22T23:05:58-05:00DJ Purple (the duke of House)falsetag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770402020-01-27T11:38:58-06:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00April 1995 - "THE ZONE" VS "COTTONBASS"
<p>Easter Monday, two venues, one club: Laristo's. "The Zone" was House Music, while "Cottonbass" was R&B/Drum & Bass. This turned out to be one of the most amazing nights – ever! I had a one-hour set that turned into an aerobic workout! 30 minutes into my set I was drenched in my own sweat -- the walls and mirrors were wet because of condensation! I also wowed the crowd in the middle of my set when I stopped the record I was playing and promptly began to play it backwards!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770392020-01-27T11:38:58-06:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00July 1994 – A CHANGE OF SCENERY
<p>My Air Force job now required me to relocate to RAF Alconbury, UK. I already knew that the United Kingdom was a hotbed of house music, but I was in for a BIG surprise. I soon teamed up with fellow Chicago jock Ahman Shird (aka DJ Intrigue), John V. Dub, and DJ Maestro (another American), and we rocked the town of Peterborough! I also officially changed my name to “DJ Purple”.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770382020-01-27T11:38:58-06:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00September 1993 – THE PROFESSION BEGINS…
<p>I already had a respectable vinyl collection but now I would finally get my own DJ mixing set. My first serious gig was a wedding reception. The music required lots of smooth jazz, so I included several Chicago-based artists such as Terry Hunter and the Underground Crew.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770372020-01-27T11:38:58-06:002020-01-27T11:38:58-06:001992-1993 – INTERNSHIP AT WFIT
<p>I was at Patrick Air Force base in Cocoa Beach, FL. It was during this time that I volunteered as an intern at Florida Institute of Technology radio station WFIT (89.5 FM). House Music was now getting national attention. I wanted to get behind the scenes at a college radio station and eventually introduce house music into a playlist. I worked on Wednesday nights and sat in on some shows featuring DJ Spyder-D. The time spent was very rewarding. I was fortunate enough to earn a staff t-shirt and a radio license application as a “reward” for my internship.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770362020-01-27T11:38:58-06:002020-01-27T11:38:58-06:00December 1984 – DISCOVERY OF HOUSE MUSIC
<p>I was in the eighth grade. The DJ was Mickey “Mixin’’ Oliver and the radio station was WBMX, 102.7 FM/1490 AM. This guy was awesome! His trademark was an intro that featured a very famous voice: “this is Rodney Dangerfield and you’re listening to Mickey ‘Mixin’ Oliver on WBMX”. I learned the station’s House Music rotation (M-TH: 12N, 6PM, 8PM, 10PM, 30 min ea/ F: 12N, 6PM, 8PM, 30 min ea, 10PM-3AM/SAT: 10PM-3AM -- to the best of my recollection) and frantically switched between WBMX and rival station WGGI, 107.5 FM, as well as college station WKKC, 89.3 FM. In high school I bought records, taped mixes and extended my favorite mixes using a double cassette deck, and made up crazy dance moves to House Music.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771472019-12-07T03:37:37-06:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Groove Odyssey 10th Birthday Party
<p>Groove Odyssey celebrated 10 years of fabulous House Music...</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgrooveodyssey%2Fvideos%2F2448484212106219%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771382019-08-08T05:18:59-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Vintage House on WNUR (Video 2)
<p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FVintageHouseWNUR%2Fvideos%2F471476210339124%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="407" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771362019-08-08T05:18:45-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Vintage House on WNUR (Video 1)
<p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FVintageHouseWNUR%2Fvideos%2F510594803017433%2F&show_text=1&width=267" width="267" height="709" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771402019-06-14T19:32:18-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00In The Mix on 88Nine Radio - Milwaukee
<p><a href="https://radiomilwaukee.org/discover-music/the-mix/in-the-mix-with-guest-dj-purple/" data-imported="1">https://radiomilwaukee.org/discover-music/the-mix/in-the-mix-with-guest-dj-purple/</a></p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771352016-05-30T04:39:51-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Live @ Retropect 5-27-2016
<p>The birthday set (May 27 was the birthday)</p>
<p>http://www.infinitesonicoutput.com/dj-purple-live-retrospect-5-27-2016/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771342016-03-15T11:10:04-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00DJ Purple Guest Mix on TP Live hosted by TP Corleone
<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxI8IBXzWDQ&feature=share</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771332016-02-28T02:42:18-06:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00#3: DJ Purple Guest Mix for the Latenight Beat Generation
<p>February 27, 2016 would become the lastest music milestone due to my thirsd visit to the studio of WMSE. The night would be yet again a special one as this time there would be special guest DJ performances by JDL and Killa Kutz. Each DJ would bring different flavors of Hip-Hop, Soul, Funk, and House. All music would be Old School. My set would be featuring House Music from 1984-1997. Huge shouts to Paul Matthew for the hospitality. Here are instructions for accessing both the mix and the talk afterwards. To access the mix: Click here - http://www.wmse.org/archives/?time=594000 Select “2/27/2016” to download/stream. I start at 02:07:00 To access the conversation after the mix: Click here - http://www.wmse.org/archives/?time=0 Select “2/28/2016” to download/stream The conversation begins after the PSAs. ENJOY how I represent Chicago to the fullest!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771302015-12-21T12:55:45-06:002020-01-27T11:39:03-06:00No Coast Muzik vol 18
<p>http://www.infinitesonicoutput.com/no-coast-muzik-vol-18-dj-purple/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771322015-10-16T15:42:46-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00GZR Ep.42 (Ground Zero Radio Welcomes DJ Purple)
<p>Set begins at 45:24</p>
<p>https://www.mixcloud.com/groundzeroradio/gzr-welcomes-dj-purple/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771292015-07-22T15:12:43-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00The 312 Mix Vol 6 presents DJ Purple
<p>http://5chicago.com/audio/312-mix/dj-purple/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771242015-07-14T16:35:39-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00No Coast Muzik vol 16
<p>http://www.infinitesonicoutput.com/no-coast-muzik-vol-16-dj-purple/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771252015-06-28T16:40:15-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Live @ Retrospect 6-26-2015
<p>http://www.infinitesonicoutput.com/dj-purple-live-retrospect-6-26-2015/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771272015-05-12T16:44:18-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Live @ Retrospect 5-8-2015
<p>http://www.infinitesonicoutput.com/dj-purple-live-retrospect-5-8-2015/</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771202015-01-23T09:14:58-06:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Funky Salsa
<p>"Funky Salsa" will be on the forthcoming project "Guillotine & Friends".
Produced by DJ Guillotine + DJ Purple
<iframe width="100%" height="450" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/190328457&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true"></iframe></p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771222015-01-22T09:15:39-06:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Funky Salsa Session with Guillotine
<p>https://plus.google.com/u/0/105902885594157700386/posts/VCKebRaP58v?pid=6108010731724531394&oid=105902885594157700386</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771182014-07-20T06:40:21-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00#2: DJ Purple Guest Mix for the Latenight Beat Generation
<p>July 19, 2014 goes down as another music milestone. This time I was in a different mindset as earlier in the day I attended a funeral for a good friend and former co-worker. This would be a special night for another reason as well...a 2-hour set. Was I ready? Certainly!! Representing the flavor of WBMX, WKKC and WBBM (B96), I carried on to take a trip down memory lane...
Huge shouts to Steven Kaye and Paul Matthew for the invite and hospitality.
Here are instructions for accessing both the mix and the talk afterwards.
To access the mix:
Click here - http://www.wmse.org/archives/?time=594000
Select “7/19/2014” to download/stream
I start at 01:05:00
To access the conversation after the mix:
Click here - http://www.wmse.org/archives/?time=0
Select “7/20/2014” to download/stream
The mix finishes out and the conversation begins
Here is the playlist:
http://www.wmse.org/playlists/?station=wmse&ptype=i&spinitron-month=Jul&spinitron-year=2014&playlist=4290
ENJOY how I represent Chicago to the fullest!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771162014-06-20T04:34:27-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Donations to the CBMR Library and Archives
<p>http://www.colum.edu/CBMR/digest/2014/spring/donations.php</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771132014-06-11T12:02:44-05:002019-12-21T04:00:51-06:00Mixcity.com Upload #2
<p>Here is the latest upload...</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770972014-05-02T09:59:33-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 10
<p>My Facebook post:
Just taking pause for a moment...
It is still difficult to accept that Frankie Knuckles is no longer with us.
But each day,
Each hour,
Each minute,
We heal.
For some it is because of the memories of him as a person. For others, memories of his music as we play his records or his cds or his sessions on the radio. But the healing begins and continues when we smile...</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770992014-04-15T09:59:41-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 9
<p>My Facebook post:
Talk about degrees of separation...
Apparently, Frankie Knuckles cited Trevor Horn as an influence on his production 'sound'. Trevor Horn was once associated with my favorite band of all-time, The Art Of Noise :D</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771122014-04-12T10:04:29-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 8
<p>My Facebook post:
Still seeing the tributes coming in for Frankie Knuckles.
I still have mixed emotions whenever I hear "The Whistle Song".
I still have not cried yet, most likely because I did not have a personal relationship with him.
But...I still hold fast to my thought and my statement -- he was important to me...
The music will last until the end of time, and I thank him for that.
I feel a little better now :D</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771102014-04-12T10:03:45-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 7
<p>My Facebook post:
Sweet memories of 1996...and I got his autograph.
Frankie, your spirit WILL live on sir...
http://www.amazon.com/review/R18HVAGD1PLOSM/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B0000075EJ&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=5174&store=music</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771082014-04-12T10:03:32-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 6
<p>My Facebook post:
Frankie, oh Frankie...and David... :D
http://www.amazon.com/review/RMCKU8843J15S/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B000005PDB&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=5174&store=music</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771072014-04-12T10:03:23-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 5
<p>My Facebook post:
Frankie did me in... :D
http://www.amazon.com/review/R2AT2VS9U52WOI/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00004YRXM&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=5174&store=music</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771052014-04-12T10:03:17-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 4
<p>My Facebook post:
How could I forget this?
:D
http://www.amazon.com/review/R2XCDBYAOC734X/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B000062Y6R&nodeID=5174&store=music</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770952014-04-11T15:08:31-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Mix Sessions with The Other Guys DJ Crew - Session #3 [Frankie Knuckles Tribute]
<p>1:04:40 starts the interview then the mix...
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/43796430#/recorded/46006763</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770942014-04-03T12:24:38-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Mixes
<iframe width="400" height="500" frameborder="0" src="http://www.bbc.co.uk/emp/embed/smpEmbed.html?playlist=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.co.uk%2Fiplayer%2Fplaylist%2Fp01wpnsj&title=BBC%20Radio%201's%20Essential%20Mix%3A%20RIP%20Frankie%20Knuckles%3A%20The%20Godfather%20of%20House&product=iplayer"></iframe>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771032014-04-03T09:51:25-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 3
<p>My Facebook post:
A new note regarding Frankie Knuckles...
I only met him two times. The first time I got a t-shirt, and the second time I got an autograph. So, we were not related. We were not close friends. We were not associates or business partners. My only connection to him was as a fan. He was still important to me. When an important person passes on, it hurts.
My emotions are still all over the place so you will have to forgive me in advance.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771022014-04-02T09:50:08-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 2
<p>Steve Harvey on DJ Frankie Knuckles
v103.com
Thank you Steve Harvey...
http://www.v103.com/onair/steve-harvey-30575/listen-steve-harvey-on-dj-frankie-12209498</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61771002014-04-02T09:47:59-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Frankie Knuckles Note 1
<p>Originally posted on Facebook December 21, 2013, and reposted March 31, 2014:
An example of greatness achieved:
Frankie Warren Knuckles Jr...according to my research, he 'cleared' the dance floor at the Warehouse because the crowd did not understand the 'new' and 'obscure' music he was presenting. Many years later he gets inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame, is cited as an influential DJ, and continues to pack the dance floors...</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770912014-04-01T09:48:37-05:002020-01-27T11:39:02-06:00R.I.P. Frankie Knuckles
<p>At around 9:30 PM on March 31, 2014, I learned of the sudden passing of Frankie Knuckles. It is evident that he will be sorely missed. I never knew him personally and only met him twice. The first time I met him I got a t-shirt. The second time I got his autograph, and I wore the t-shirt. I made the following post on my Facebook page this morning:
"Emotions are spinning around.
I want to cry as a release of my grief, but I can't .
I am angry because I can't cry.
But I smile when I think of the wonderful music he gave us.
I don't want anyone to see me like this...until I get to the club. Maybe that is where I can fully express myself.
That is where he made us feel at home..."
I am still at a loss for words...</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770892014-03-30T06:32:10-05:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00DJ Purple Guest Mix for the Latenight Beat Generation
<p>March 29, 2014 goes down as another music milestone as made my way to the campus of one of the schools that recruited me when I graduated from high school in 1989 - Milwaukee School of Engineering. My destination was the studio of WMSE and my purpose of course was House Music - Chicago Style. I decided that the mix would comprise of current hits and then take a turn to yesteryear, and my plan turned out to be a good one. At the end of the night it was determined that this was only the first of a few visits to come in the future.
Huge shouts to Steven Kaye and Paul Matthew for the invite and hospitality.
Instructions for accessing the mix and conversation are below.
To access the mix:
Click here - http://www.wmse.org/archives/?time=594000
Select “3/29/2014” to download/stream
I start at 02:03:40
To access the conversation after the mix:
Click here - http://www.wmse.org/archives/?time=0
Select “3/30/2014” to download/stream
The mix finishes out and the conversation begins
Here is the playlist:
http://www.wmse.org/playlists/?station=wmse&ptype=i&spinitron-month=Mar&spinitron-year=2014&playlist=3428
ENJOY how I represent Chicago to the fullest!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770872014-02-14T07:19:27-06:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Mix Sessions with The Other Guys DJ Crew - Session #2
<p>http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/43796430</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770852014-02-10T07:50:43-06:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Very Special Interview
<p>Friday, February 7th, 2014 would prove to be an amazing day and for the simplest reason - an interview. Just the week prior (on Thursday January 30th - at the Chicago History Museum) I was in the audience enjoying a lively panel discussion on various topics surrounding the early Chicago House Music Scene. The moderator was Monica Hairston O'Connell (executive director of Columbia College Chicago's Center for Black Music Research) and the panelists included: DJ Alan King (The Chosen Few), DJ Derrick Carter (Resident of Queen! at the Smart Bar), Robert Williams (Owner of the Warehouse and the Music Box), and Micah Salkind (music scholar and historian from Brown University). At the end of the discussion I made it a point to approach Micah and let him know that he struck home with his opening remarks when he briefly mentioned four Chicago radio stations: WBMX, WGCI, WKKC and WNUR. WKKC (Kennedy-King College) eventually became MY favorite station, and I asked Micah if he knew what the station was up to. He said that he didn't. I told him that they were back to doing House shows...from there Micah's curiosity was piqued, especially since the panel did not go into lengthy details of the impact of radio. Micah suggested that he should interview me and I was more than happy to oblige.
Fast forward to February 7th.
I was excited to be a part of this interview. I had a list of things that I needed to ensure were included, regardless of the questions that were asked. In my mind the questions could basically be geared in one of two directions: WKKC specifically, or Chicago radio in general. In either case I had enough recall that I could paint a simple picture of what radio was like in Chicago, even after my departure for the military. [One of the perks of military service was 30 days' vacation each year beginning with the first year, so I was always able to stay connected to the happenings in Chicago radio.] Micah asked all of the right questions, beginning with my upbringing and how I was introduced to music in general. We went all over the place with radio and my discovery of House Music and the 'culture' as a teenager. We discussed my connection to Chicago after my departure for Air Force Basic Military Training, and my newfound mission as an "ambassador of House" to the troops. We discussed the national attention and crossover appeal of House Music during the 1990s. We discussed my routine in Chicago and England, and compared the two scenes with their similarities and differences. We ended with a shout out to a radio station that I was unaware of until my aunt gave me a bit of information -- WSDM, which had an all female roster. All in all it was great to take the trip down memory lane.
More significant was the principle purpose behind the interview. I was made aware that Micah is heavily involved with the Center for Black Music Research (CBMR) at Columbia College. His mission was to collect oral history narrative from individuals who were involved in House Music culture and community in Chicago. The narratives will be made available to other scholars as well as the general public through the CBMR archive. I then became a willing volunteer to supply mixes to the archive. I also provided Micah two gifts: a snippet of one of the legendary "Roachbusters Mixes" mixed by WKKC's Walter "Get Down" Brown, and a guest mix by DJ Purple (me) on WKKC's Friday Night Audio that was aired on March 21st, 1997. These could very well be the first two of my many contributions to the archive, as I told Micah that I have 10 Case Logic cassette wallets filled with radio mixes from Chicago(and a portion from England).
This was a great day.
It was another milestone for the year 2014, and only 38 days in...</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770832014-01-29T05:09:19-06:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Mixcity.com Upload
<p>I am now on the roster of Mixcity.com. I could not think of any better debut upload than my recent demo appropriately titled "I'm From Chicago..."
http://mixcity.com/audio/424/dj-purple-(the-duke-of-house)-"i'm-from-chicago..."</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770812014-01-10T05:11:02-06:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Mix Sessions with The Other Guys DJ Crew
<p>http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/42584591</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770802014-01-01T10:15:56-06:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Respecing the Game
<p>What a way to start 2014…
It’s all fun and games until some resident DJ of a corner bar in a town the size of a shoe box with less than a year experience decides to ‘help’ me with my mix. Dude – I did NOT need your help and the conversation sank quickly like the Titanic. Ordinary people sniffed you out, son…and they were NOT impressed. Respect the game and the DJs that play it, or you’ll get ‘served’ chump (and I ain’t talking about “would you like something to drink”…)
And hey Mr. DJ…check it…one objective is to be remembered after the night is through. I FORGOT YOUR NAME. Take that, SUCKA…
Happy New Year!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770772013-12-25T11:33:03-06:002019-12-21T04:00:50-06:00Holiday Greetings and Potpourri
<p>Good Day family, friends and fans:
Today was a nationwide day of celebration. And even if you did not personally partake in the Christmas tradition there was still plenty of reason for celebration - for a new calendar year is due to come upon us and for me that means the 2-year anniversary of my first official mix compilation: "Exclusive Mix for Irma Records", available thru any of the following sites:
http://www.beatport.com/#release/exclusive-mix-for-irma-records-mixed-by-dj-purple-the-duke-of-house/1085163
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/exclusive-mix-for-irma-records/id497684736
http://www.amazon.com/Exclusive-Records-Mixed-Purple-House/dp/B006WWUWE4
http://www.junodownload.com/products/exclusive-mix-for-irma-records-mixed-by-dj-purple-the-duke-of-house-unmixed-tracks/1894442-02/
Also, there are three other anniversaries that are noteworthy.
In September of 2013 I celebrated my 7th year of hosting "Soul Revival" on internet radio. I also recently took a pause to recognize that in September of 1993 I landed my first DJ gig performing for a wedding reception...thus making it "official".
2014 will mark a milestone that I will not reveal just yet, but I will say that it is something that has been one of my main influences concerning my taste for 'organic dance music'.
There are a handful of other plans for future "Soul Revival" mix shows including a new installment of the "Birthday Mix for Mom" in February (I was negligent in 2013 and did not record one...) as well as my birthday mix in May. I will also look to re-instate the "Pryme Vector" internet radio show, hosting as my alter-ego, 'Optymus Pryme' and presenting well-known and well-hidden dance music from a variety of genres and a variety of eras from the 1960's thru today. I have a few other tricks up my sleeve, but those will be revealed in time as well.
Well folks, that’s it for now. I leave you with a reminder to be true to yourself at all times. Consider this quote: "friends, if we be honest with ourselves, we shall be honest with each other." - George Macdonald
I invite you to bookmark this page and visit often...
Be blessed!
DJ Purple / DJ Optymus Pryme</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770752012-11-29T13:18:14-06:002020-01-27T11:39:01-06:00Ebony Magazine Letter to the Editor - 1991
<p>In response to an article in an earlier edition titled "The Browning of White America" I submitted a letter to the editor. Click the link and you will see it right away. The letter contains my name, 'Reginald L. Davenport'
http://books.google.com/books?id=-NMDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA10&lpg=PA10&dq=Reginald+L.+Davenport&source=bl&ots=cy-IKmytfI&sig=eZvWDghf14_rf2P_HExlurJXup0&hl=en&sa=X&ei=AiO4UMGBIcf62AWds4DACw&ved=0CEEQ6AEwBDge#v=onepage&q=Reginald%20L.%20Davenport&f=false</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770712012-08-05T09:56:48-05:002020-01-27T11:39:01-06:00The Best Turntable Actions Are Often Unscripted…
<p>Late last night I completed one of the most amazing turntable sessions ever, in my basement. A few hours earlier I pre-recorded a set for my upcoming internet radio mixshow. (My work schedule often makes this a necessity) I was feeling pretty good about the result in spite of a couple of errors with my mix (the show must go on…) After I stopped recording I noticed that the CD was still running and the next track came on – and it was another one that I hadn’t played in a while. Suddenly I decided to ‘experiment’ and pull out some more CDs…the speakers were turned off, so the only items left with volume were the headphones that were inserted into the mixer. I then imagined myself in front of a sizable crowd at a Milwaukee party, and that they were loving every track I played…I was receiving the energy and giving right back the only ways I knew how, by werking the box and jacking to the beats. Yes, I was dancing, again and again, and again! The music had me in such a state of bliss that all I could think of was finding the next track. The set took a few twists and turned – starting with deep jackin tracks then sliding into some pop/commercial records remixed to underground perfection but soon enough crossing into some caliente grooves but splashing some disco with a touch of jazz. This set was magnificent – so much so, that I wished that I had recorded it. Furthermore, I had no idea how long I played. All the while I thought to myself that this (set) is the future of House Music, and that “I” am the future of House Music…
It’s time for me to go “get” it – now!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770692012-07-03T15:51:40-05:002019-12-21T04:00:49-06:00Speaking a New Language
<p>I have had my share of conversations about House Music. After some considerable thought I decided that now is the time for me to speak a new language concerning my approach on the topic. Many of my “talks” placed me in the middle of the ‘old-school vs. new-school’ debate. On one side the self-proclaimed “Old School House Heads” of my generation would swear to you that the music played by Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy during the heyday of the 70’s and 80’s was THE standard for and today’s music could NOT compare at all…too much “Techno”. On the other side of the fence is the school of thought where the only way for House Music to expand and get to the next level is for the music itself to ‘grow up’…leave the past in the past.
Now this battle (if I can call it that) has been going on for years, and still goes on right now. And, I am still caught in the middle because I embrace BOTH schools of thought – to a degree. I AM one of those Old School House Heads, having discovered the music in December of 1984. A few months later I was hooked and soon learned the mix schedule of the Hot Mix Five DJs o WBMX (102.7 FM/AM 1490). I would even imagine myself DJ-ing alongside the actual mixes by playing a record I bought while the mix was broadcasting on-air. It was the most incredible music I had heard at the time. By the time I graduated from high school in 1989 I was immersed in the music and was at long last able to go clubbing. Fast forward a few years into the mid 1990’s. House Music was immensely popular in England) where I was stationed in the Air Force), even more so than in my hometown of Chicago. I was easily able to find music in London that was of the same quality and standard as that from the WBMX era. DJs such as Paul “Trouble” Anderson, C.J. Mackintosh, and Bobby & Steve always kept the party going and sounded more American that most of the US jocks. (…and a few hometown heroes made frequent visits – Terry Hunter, Ron Trent and Steve “Silk” Hurley, for instance) This became my “second childhood” and it was a sweet ride. Here I was in another country where House Music was a big hit. I was either dancing at the clubs or spinning in them – and I played the classics as well as the current songs, giving my patrons the best of both worlds. In essence, a new ‘standard’ was being set and I was living through it all, sometimes directly contributing to it! When I returned to the US in 2001 I know that my life would once again change but I still had a few ‘lifelines’ in England and also in Chicago, so my “second childhood” would not be such a distant memory.
Fast forward to ‘now’. I am in close enough proximity to Chicago where I can keep abreast of the scene. I still hear flashes of the debate: Old School vs. New School, and I am still in the middle. I am also older and a great deal wiser, which is why I am speaking a new language concerning House (and other genres of) Music. As a ‘seasoned’ DJ I have now decided to re-tune my focus when it comes to pleasing the crowd. I do believe that there is no feeling that the one a person gets when he/she connects with like-minded individuals on the things that really matter. In my case, since I am a MUSIC LOVER, I seek out individuals who appreciate many of the same things that I do in House Music: the recognition of what makes House ‘House’, the feeling when one hits the dance floor, the sound coming through the speakers, the mix, etc.
Now here comes the best part.
From this day forward, whenever I approach people and the topic of House Music arises I will simply make this statement: I humbly ask that you keep an open mind regarding the music, and especially while listening to my demo. I have new music + old music, as there is an abundance of quality House Music all around us. If after listening to my mix you are still not feeling the new sound I will respect your choice – but I at least attempted to expand your mind…
- DJ Purple</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770672012-02-08T10:17:38-06:002019-12-21T04:00:49-06:00DJ Purple’s “Spin” on Records (Subtitle: “Why I Love Vinyl”)
<p>The debate about the merits of vinyl has been ongoing for a number of years now. On the one hand, vinyl has been purported to be of the best sound quality when compared to digital formats. On the other hand, it is also cumbersome and has claimed responsibility for a lot of backaches suffered by disc jockeys carrying record in milk carton crates back in the day. Mainstream America has gone away from the vinyl format, placing it a virtual “obsolete” status. Fortunately for me there are still a handful of record shops in operation where I can purchase vinyl records.
I no longer have a position or a pro/con side in the debate over vinyl. This is because I currently spin music using vinyl records + compact discs. However, I am still holding to the position of refusing to ‘upgrade’ to Serato, Vinyl Scratch, or any other digital DJ technologies. This is not an act of rebellion against advancement of technology, nor is this a stubborn display of the need to be different (although I am fully capable of non-conformance). Rather, it is contentment with my music library format.
Psychologically speaking I am a “visual/kinesthetic” learner-performer, meaning I have to see/touch. This also translates to my level of comfort when I spin music. When I perform behind the decks I incorporate a visual/kinesthetic performance style – I have to see/touch my music. When using CDs I can satisfy at least one part of my performance style by ‘touching’ the CD. Since I use CD labels on each CD I can still satisfy the other part of my performance style by ‘seeing’ the artwork on the label. However, when I use vinyl I satisfy both parts of my performance style and beyond. I can easily satisfy the visual by ‘seeing’ the record label as well as the grooves on the platter. The bonus is the occasional colored vinyl, adding “flavor” to the set. The kinesthetic aspect is easily satisfied by cueing up the record and adjusting the pitch control on the turntable in a ‘hands-on’ format. I do fully understand that Vinyl Scratch provides the “feel” of vinyl with the two platters supplied in the starter kit…it’s not the same feeling for me as using independent pieces of vinyl.
In closing, I will state that there is an abundance of DJ talent in the music scene. A few of my favorite DJs are using laptops and they sound awesome. I must propose that they made the decision to use a laptop for reasons only known to them, so I cannot judge them on their decisions just because my decisions (not to use a laptop, and to continue using vinyl and CDs) are different. Each DJ has to use what works best for them. In the end it’s the output that really counts…
-DJ Purple/DJ Optymus Pryme</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770652011-12-14T03:06:19-06:002019-12-21T04:00:49-06:00Another Reason That 5 Magazine Is a Lifeline
<p>A few years back, when I first began my subscription with 5 Magazine I was delighted to be able to keep up with the House Music Scene in Chicago, as I was involved with the Scene in Salt Lake City. It was for that reason that I called the magazine “my lifeline”. Since that time I relocated to the Chicagoland area, yet I still subscribed to the magazine because it made for fine reading. The December 2011 issue stood out for me because of one of the interviews: Jamie Lewis, Purple Music label owner. Prior to receive this issue of the magazine I had already known that Prince would be releasing a single on the Purple Music label, and that had me very excited, for I had grown to respect the Purple Music catalog…and had intentions of making some more purchases in the near future, starting with Prince. Upon reading the interview I took note of the single – the first one – and that it was on the “Lotusflow3r” tripe-CD, which I own. The second release on Purple Music is also from the CD and is a track that I like when I first played it in the car – “2 Nite”, by Bria Valentine. Needless to say I was looking forward to that release date as well. Then came the ‘bombshell.’
Verbatim from the magazine: “There’s a track on the Black Album, “Cindy C”, which makes a reference to Steve “Silk” Hurley’s “Music Is The Key”, and releases from the “Gett Off” era were remixed by ID Productions and others…” What?! I have the Black Album, so my next move was to play the song and listen for myself. Sure enough, “music is the key to set yourself free…” at the end of the song. My jaw dropped at the realization that I just learned something new! Was Prince a Househead????
Once again, 5 Magazine continues to be a “lifeline”…</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770642011-01-03T10:48:59-06:002019-12-21T04:00:49-06:00DJ Purple’s Current Flavahs - January 2011
<p>The songs listed below are not a “Top Ten”. Nor are they a “Top Five”. They are a selection of songs that I have found myself feeling at the moment. Some are recent, while others are older. All are just simply my flavahs…
Producer Yah Sharif featuring Amera Light – “MA’AT POWER (Be Strong)” [Messengers of House]
Third Party featuring Johan Greaves – “Alright” [Mi Casa]
Frankie Knuckles – “Chicago Theme (La Sonata di Fascia Bassa)”
Mark Grant featuring Russoul - “You R The 1” [Blackstone]***5 Magazine Remix is doing the damage for me right now…
Ron Trent – “Message to the World”
Matthew Bandy featuring Venus Cruz – “Time Me” [Soul Heaven]
Stevie Wonder – “My Love Is On Fire” ***DJ Spinna heats it up…
Papo Sanchez – “Guaguanco” [T’s Box]
Sun Singleton – “Ready” [Stilnovo]
Inaya Day – “My Cry” [Slaag]
Amana Melome` – “Nao Falo” [Irma Casa Di Priordine]
Positive Flow – “Dance Of The Soul” [Stilnovo]</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770592011-01-01T08:50:59-06:002020-01-27T11:39:00-06:00Special Project w/Friends
<p>Friends:
First, Happy New Year! Now is the time for reflection and a recharging of the batteries (if even for short time). I am in the midst of pursuing a very special project that has been in the pipeline for some time now. For this project I will be soliciting input from other people, which should make things even more exciting. The project? Allow me to explain…
Every DJ has a story about how they got into spinning records, and how they were influenced. I will be putting down my thoughts about music in general, and time span will be from 1971 – 2010; four decades. I only state 1971 vs 1970 because ’71 is my year of birth. This recollection of memories will basically be about some of my shared experiences as well as events that only I could experience through the decades, and the subject matter will be varied. One element of my storytelling will be that of including excerpts from outside sources: family, friends, etc. This is where you enter the picture. If our acquaintance/friendship was shaped in any form by music I would love to hear from you. What do you remember the most about me? What were our shared experiences? What stood out the most? I will most likely have an idea of what I would state from my own perspective, but what makes the project have more appeal is the perspective of other people involved.
There is no age limit nor time factor restriction apart from the previously stated year group. If we were acquainted at any time between 1971 – 2010 you fit the category and may proceed to give me feedback about what you remember. There is also one other rule: there is no such thing as too much information. If you have several different moments that you wish to recount by all means do so. The worst thing that can happen is that I break the one big project into several smaller projects…
Cheers to you all.
Now start writing!
:D</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770582010-02-07T09:41:28-06:002019-12-21T04:00:48-06:00Commentary: Old Habits Are Hard To Break…
<p>Old habits are hard to break; some are IMPOSSIBLE to break. I have one such habit and it is called “vinyl”. Now it has been debated (and will continue to be) that the recent technological advances in DJ equipment have made vinyl virtually “a thing of the past”. Instead of carting around 100 records for a gig a DJ can carry 200 tracks on a laptop and just plug-in using any of the “DJ-master” packages such as Vinyl Scratch, Serato, etc. Then there is the music distribution itself. The major labels are still CD only, with a few of them releasing a limited number of LPs or 12” singles on vinyl. There is a respectable number of independent labels that follow the same pattern of vinyl releases but many more of them are digital only. Finally we have the chosen media itself. We are in the digital age and that means we are saturated with technological wonders – musically speaking that would be the iPod. Where do I stand amidst all of this? My response is, “to each his own”. The reason for that is somewhat personal, and I am more that willing to share the details. Those who know me well know that sometimes I can be a bit stubborn about certain things, but they may not know exactly why…
First off, I am NOT against advancement. As much as I am a 70s and 80s kid I can still appreciate (some) music of today. My thing is that it has to appeal to me in a certain way in order for me to react to it. For instance there is an artist by the name of Rogiers who I am drawn to because his sound is “interesting”. When I listen to his tracks I hear musicianship – not just random noise, and that appeals to me. I approach DJ equipment in the same fashion – the piece of equipment MUST appeal to me. I have often been (and could very well continue to be) teased about my equipment because by today’s standards it’s “ancient”. I have two Technics 1210 turntables and a Pioneer CMX – 3000 CD mixer as my main output sources, and if I really wanted to dust off some music I could still use an additional output from a SONY TC-WE475 double cassette deck (that’s right, I said “cassette”). What? No Serato? No iPod? That’s correct – no software hookups, and no iPods. Why…because they don’t appeal to ME. I am a kinesthetic person, meaning I sometimes communicate by touch. But I also appreciate “visuals”, so I can best be described as a “touchy-feely-seeing type”. This is where my stubbornness for vinyl comes into the big picture.
I was a “collector” of vinyl records long before I decided to become a DJ – about 10 years to be precise. I would buy a record and just enjoy listening, watching it spin around on the portable turntable, looking at the sleeves, or reading the liner notes and cover art. I “touched” and I “saw”. Teaching myself how spin records was very easy because I continued to “touch” (vinyl – turntable – mixer) and “see” (label artwork – mental pictures as the record plays – breaks in the gooves), and that appealed to me more than anything else. I was not so much interested in become a “Turntablist” or “Scratch DJ”, though I loved hearing scratching in the early 80s rap records (“Roxanne, Roxanne” and Run D.M.C. joints) and seeing guys like Kid Capri or Jazzy Jeff doing their thing on TV. My niche would simply be to create an environment for dancing – period. When I play a record, you dance…end of story.
Nowadays I still play records, but when the occasion calls for it I will use CDs. Another DJ might go with CDs only. Yet another DJ (or “she-jay”) might use only Serato. My whole thing is this one question: “how does the music sound when the DJ is playing?” Compare this to having a hammer in your toolbox. A hammer is used to drive nails into the wall. You have the hammer and nails, but if you don’t use the hammer correctly, you could end up trying to drive your thumb into the wall – ouch! The point is that for me it’s not the “madness” (the equipment hype) but the “method” (how well you use your tools) that gets my attention. Are you driving a ‘nail’ or a ‘thumb’ into the wall? When I use my Technics 1210s I drive ‘nails’ into the walls! I choose to remain a “vinylsaur” simply because this is how I am wired. If the day comes when there are absolutely NO more vinyl records pressed, released, or sold then I will cease buying vinyl. Until that day comes this vinyl habit will be one of those that is IMPOSSIBLE to break.
My tools!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770552009-11-01T05:15:37-06:002019-12-21T04:00:48-06:00Re-invention of DJ PURPLE
<p>It is now six days before my next big gig in Salt Lake City and I have decided that now it is time to re-tool my “brand”, re-evaluate my “mission” and present a renewed “package”. In other words I will put a new “stamp” on my love of music and show everyone what DJ PURPLE will bring to the table.
I have been a DJ since 1993 and I have purchased music since 1983 – add in my lifetime appreciation for music in that I’ve listened to it practically all my life. My love of music is as strong now as it has ever been. Now I am at the point where I feel that my eclectic taste in music can no longer be held back and kept in bondage by “imaginations” and “strongholds”. What I mean in a literal sense is that while the function of the DJ is to entertain there is certainly room for education.
In my reinvention I am incorporating several different catch-words that will now define DJ PURPLE - Purple: royalty. Duke: a ruler of a territory. Spiritual: of the spirit or the soul. Harmonic: in harmony. Sonic: having to do with sound. Organic: systematically arranged.
DJ PURPLE. My style is “soulful dance music”.
Re-tooling my “brand” - in the past I described myself as a soulful house DJ. Now I am simply
Re-evaluating my “mission” – in the past my mission was to create the atmosphere for “a soulful, melodic, and spiritual clubbing experience”. Now my mission is to create an “organic” experience.
My renewed “package” – in the past my “package” was that of a professional DJ available for various types of functions and events stateside and overseas. While this has not changed, the depth of it has. Now I have purposed it in my heart that I would always give of my heart and soul at each and every performance for which I am hired; my taste in music knows no boundaries – and neither will my musical expressions.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770562008-10-06T11:45:25-05:002019-12-21T04:00:48-06:00October 2008 – AND THE MIX THAT SEALED THE DEAL WAS… (regarding 5 Magazine post)
<p>I immediately went to work on submitting a photo since I felt as though I had no time to lose. I took a series of full-body shot, as well as head/shoulder shots, and finally found the one that I liked. I was able to email the chosen shot the same night that I received the email. However, in my excitement over the news that I was selected as a finalist I forgot to ask which CD got everyone’s attention since I did remember sending two mixes. Response follows:
“'Twas the green one, "Soul Revival"”
Sometimes it pays to stay in your element…</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770572008-10-05T11:44:56-05:002020-01-27T11:39:00-06:00October 2008 – 5 MAGAZINE DJ SERIES
<p>This milestone actually took root 3 months earlier, thanks to my subscription to 5 Magazine, which is based out of Chicago. I had only begun my subscription in May, and was able to purchase all of the back issues so that I could get caught up. I got right on track with the June 2008 issue, which featured a call for DJs to submit their best mixes for the 5 Magazine DJ Series Search. The DJ Series began with the March 2007 issue and was presented as a monthly featured House mix submitted by DJs who were either up-and-coming or very well-known. Also featured would be a profile where the reader would see what’s on the DJ’s mind. When the June 2008 issue was released Volume 15 of the Series was well in circulation and so the staff decided to hold a contest. The rules were simple: record what you want as long as it’s something you’re proud of, keep it under 78 minutes and send your mix in ASAP. The judging would be performed by a panel of the magazine staff, the owner of KStake Records, and previous mixers from the series – mind you, that could mean up to 15 DJs alone. Lastly, the winner would have a picture + profile printed in the space dedicated to the DJ Series mix, and the winning mix would be featured on the 5 Magazine website with limited quantities of CDs floating around town in the clubs, lounges and boutiques.
Now I’ve entered a fair share of DJ battles/competitions/contests, and while I never placed any higher that second, I always entered these events with three basic mindsets: 1. enter for the sake of networking. 2. by entering a competition I am contributing to the House Music scene. 3. I must play in my element - in other words, “be yourself” so that the judges hear ‘you’. I had no other expectations since I felt that the contest targeted Chicago residents and at the moment I resided in Salt Lake City. Nevertheless, the decision to enter the contest was purely instinctual. In fact, I couldn’t decide on just ONE mix, so I sent two: “Chicago Classics from the Vault” and “Soul Revival – Volume Five”. I went to the post office and mailed my package…
Fast-forward to October 5, 2008, when I got the following email from Terry Matthew, one of the managing editors for 5 Magazine:
“Hi Reggie,
You're one of the finalists for the 5 Magazine DJ Series contest. Congratulations!
In order to expedite the process, I need t get from you a high resolution photo (at least 2 inches x 2 inches at 300 dpi). At this point we expect the photo to be printed regardless of whether or not you're the final winner. I need to get this from you as soon as possible -- sometime within the next week.
Thank you!”
Let’s just say that this qualifies as a significant event! I’m a finalist, and I got some love from my hometown!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770542008-02-04T10:42:08-06:002020-01-27T11:38:59-06:00Response to Homework Assignment - ENJOY!
<p>I am taking a class called "The Impact of Music on Life. So far I think the class will be enlightening. I had to post an essay in response to a study question. The one I chose was this: "How are ethnicity, class, gender, and region embodied in country music, hip-hop, or some other music that you know about?" Naturally I chose House Music, and here was my response...
"Study Questions 8 and 15
Question 15
There is a class/genre of music that is very much misunderstood, and this question affords me the platform to address it. This genre is called House Music. The reason that House Music is misunderstood is because it is typically an “underground” genre, meaning that it is prevalent in after-hours nightclubs and college radio stations. House Music got its beginnings in downtown Chicago via the night club. The majority of the patrons at the time were young Black men, but soon all sorts of people from various other parts of town were frequenting the clubs across the city. In the 1980s House Music was popularized in New York, Detroit and London. In the early 1990s it became big news across the rest of the US, with a featured article in USA Today in 1990 (and another one a year later). Top 40 radio stations were dedicating weekend slots to the music. Other European and Asian countries were taking hold. People were drawn to the pulsating beats and rhythms. One theory behind the rapid expansion of House Music was that the message in the music was simply that of Love, Peace, and Harmony. To further expound on those themes a sub-genre soon emerged and took the dance community by storm: Gospel House. There is a poplar vocal speech (often used in the “real” underground clubs) that sums up the House Music culture: “You may be Black. You may be White. You may be Jew or Gentile. It don’t make a difference in our house…” Today House Music can be heard in the most unlikely locations – given it’s beginnings in the big city. There are events in places such as Denver, Atlanta, Omaha, and even Salt Lake City. These are “smaller” markets compared to Chicago, New York or Detroit. With House Music, ethnicity and social status is not an issue since the music is literally made by people worldwide. The one thing that stands out the most is that House Music is a reincarnation of Disco, and that music was special in its own way, too."</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770532007-08-25T16:18:53-05:002022-03-08T03:57:31-06:00Disturbing News Concerning Rinaldo's Nightclub, Peterborough UK -- PLEASE READ!!!!!!!
<p>Today I have just deleted a guestbook entry that stated that I never played at Rinaldo's Nightclub in Peterborough, UK. This is the second time I have done so. This is also the second time that the person who signed the guestbook failed to identify himself/herself. This is the beginning of a VERY DISTURBING trend. I now feel that it is necessary to educate the people.
To begin this discussion, I DO NOT APPRECIATE BEING CALLED A LIAR. If I put a location down as having played there, then I played at that location. I have no reason (or motivation) to lie.
There are several reasons why I would list a club, pub, hotel, etc., as a “location played”:
1. I was an opening DJ.
2. I was a headlining DJ.
3. I was the closing DJ.
4. The location was used for a special occasion for which I was a DJ.
Need I go further?
Simply put, if I play ONE record at a club, pub, hotel, etc., then it goes on my resume`.
Oftentimes I played at a place as a warm-up DJ, which would mean that my name was not on a flier. The thing I took away from those moments was that I could play to “myself” until the crowds started to come. At that point I could play to them and control the atmosphere until the next DJ was due up.
In 1994 I began my UK DJ-ing career at Muswell’s Pub, as a headlining DJ. I played with John V. Dub, DJ Intrigue and DJ Maestro. Although I do not have any fliers, I do have a “live” recording of one of my sets (see 1994 photo). From there came the Sports Bar and Stuckley Inn, on RAF Alconbury. At those locations I was able to build a following. The next opportunity came with Rinaldo’s. Again there was no flier: I was warm-up. I was finally able to make a strong showing at a club – Laristo’s! I clearly remember the aerobic workout I gave myself just by spinning records – and the backwards record playing (see BLOG: April 1995 - "THE ZONE" VS "COTTONBASS"). Oh, by the way, this one did have my name on a flier, as did Winner’s! So again, I ask, WHY SHOULD I LIE ABOUT WHERE I PLAYED????
I was in England a total of seven years. During that time I played at a lot of places, most of them small and off the clubland radar. I PLAYED AT QUITE A FEW PUBS – DO I HAVE FLIERS FOR THEM? NO. That did not diminish my passion and enthusiasm for playing the music that I enjoyed. I also played at Bar Rumba – several times in the DJ Laboratory, as a precursor for “Garage City”. DO I HAVE FLIERS? NO. Translation: I played where I could get gigs – end of story!
BOTTOM LINE: AS I STATED IN THE BEGINNING, I DO NOT TOLORATE BEING CALLED A LIAR. I HAVE WORKED TOO HARD (AND I ENJOY MY MUSIC TOO MUCH) TO HAVE A COWARD WITH A “MISGUIDED” MEMORY TELL ME, AND THE VIEWING PUBLIC, THAT I DIDN’T DO WHAT I SAID I DID. FOR ME TO LIE WOULD NOT ONLY BE STUPID, BUT IT WOULD BE A WASTE OF WEBSITE SPACE AND THE MONEY SPENT ON PROMOTION. NOT TO MENTION THAT A MAN’S WORD IS HIS BOND!
In closing, I only welcome positive remarks in my guestbook. If I see another remark about my not having played at Rinaldo’s - I WILL DELETE IT!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770522005-08-31T06:08:55-05:002019-12-21T04:00:48-06:00August 2005 – RIDING THE RHYTHM
<p>The location was Seville Quarter in Pensacola, FL and the main attraction was Tortured Soul, a three-person House Music band from New York. I was concerned that the night would be cancelled due to Hurricane Katrina’s extensive reach into the Florida Panhandle. Pensacola only received minimal damage so the show went on as scheduled. I was fortunate enough to be the DJ that would lead into the band’s act. I was informed that after I played the last record of my set the band would come in right afterwards. I really had NO idea what was in store, but decided to play things by ear and get ready to cue the band. The last record I played was “Closer than Close” by Rosie Gaines, and it was the Frankie Knuckles remix. As the record was playing, so was the band! They literally matched the melody and the tempo to perfection. It was nearly impossible to tell when my record ended and the band began! The band then played non-stop for an hour after they began – with perfect segues! They were”riding the rhythm”!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770512003-08-01T06:08:31-05:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00July 2003 - TOUR DE FRANCE
<p>20 months after my return to the States I resumed my status as an “international DJ”. This time the location was Lyon, France. The stage was set for the grand opening of Le Zebre, a wine bar. The DJs were I, DJ Come of Age (DJ Consortium partner) and partner K-Pharaoh who visited from the UK. The most special moments of this trip occurred from day one! The people were friendly, the food was good and most amazingly, we played more sets than were originally planned. The initial plan was for us to play 3-4 consecutive nights at Le Zebre; however, with unscheduled performances at a record store, University Radio and 3 more clubs, I played an unprecedented 10 sets in a 6-consecutive-night period.
I virtually played from the moment I arrived in town until the moment I left town! The most gratifying note was that we were invited to come back soon, perhaps for the New Year...</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770502001-09-23T06:08:03-05:002020-01-27T11:38:59-06:00September 2001 – THE SEVEN YEAR ITCH
<p>On my penultimate weekend in the UK, I played what would be one of my greatest sets at "Garage City". I felt the full range of emotions, knowing that I would be transferring back to the United States and that I would embark on a new beginning. Somehow I felt that September 22nd would not necessarily be my last set at "Garage City"…</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770492001-08-26T06:07:36-05:002020-01-27T11:38:59-06:00August 2001 – A DREAM COME TRUE
<p>After seven years of “wishful thinking” another dream finally came true – to play at the world renowned London superclub, Ministry of Sound. The headlining DJs in the ‘Baby Box’ were Dan Smith and Conan Manchester (Liquid People) while the opening set was performed by my good friend K-Pharaoh and me. August 25th was the date and it would be one that will go down as being one of the best nights ever.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770482001-05-01T06:07:11-05:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00April 2001 – PARADISE
<p>A new promotion, "Paradise", arrived at Romford – just outside of London. The location was the Opium Lounge and the resident DJs were Chrissy T., (from Garage City) and me. I remembered the launch party as being truly amazing; I simply fell in love with the club!</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770472001-01-01T05:06:47-06:002020-01-27T11:38:59-06:00March 2000 – EMOTIVO
<p>This time an innovation would take place at RAF Mildenhall. Nick Bridges, a local DJ from Newmarket, would introduce his latest venture, "Emotivo", to the RAF Mildenhall military community. The event took place at the Galaxy Club. Initially conceived as a one-night-only event, Emotivo went over quite well and was requested two more times during the next ten months.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770461999-12-31T05:05:16-06:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00January 1999 – GARAGE CITY
<p>The next big break had come. The venue was "Garage City (The People’s Choice)" and the location was Bar Rumba, London. Garage City was known for its intimate atmosphere and quality Soulful House sounds. I landed a spot playing the opening set in the bar, as part of a new session called the 'DJ Laboratory'. January 30th soon became the first of many nights of incredible house sessions. A dream serendipitously came true.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770451999-01-01T05:05:55-06:002022-05-22T23:05:58-05:00December 1998 – THE GOODLY WEDNESDAY
<p>"The Goodly Wednesday" was a mid-week jam held at the Fez Club, Cambridge. The resident DJ was Dan Smith. At the time American DJs were making regular guest appearances in London and Cambridge. Terry Hunter was one of them, and I had managed to see his performances quite a few times. This particular night would be unforgettable for both of us. For me it would be for the fact that I had the opening set. For him it would be for the fact that he was not made aware of my set until he arrived on the night! I would eventually gain a semi-residency.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770441998-12-31T05:04:51-06:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00January 1998 – LET THERE BE SOUND
<p>A new promotion had begun – "Let There Be Sound". The primary location was the White House, Newmarket. But over the course of the year the promotion would land guest spots in clubs in Leicester and Colchester. The resident DJs were fellow Chicago jock DJ Frenchy and me.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770431997-09-01T06:04:19-05:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00August 1997 - BATTLE OF THE DJS
<p>Club Evolution's in Wellingborough was the host of a fantastic "Battle of the DJs" competition. The rules were simple: each DJ had 15 minutes to perform. Each DJ would also have one record would be their "hot" record - no one else would be allowed to play it if they had it with them. My strategy was simply play as many records as possible (hot-mix style). I began my set with the Todd Terry remix of "Havana" by Kenny G. According to my partner (K-Pharaoh), the whole crowd was so amazed by the song's intro that they were "swaying" before the beat came in. I played a total of 12 records in my 15 minutes.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770421997-04-01T05:04:01-06:002019-12-21T04:00:47-06:00March 1997 – ROYAL HOMECOMING
<p>This was the ultimate homeward-bound vacation. While in Chicago I was able to secure an opening set at the Warehouse III and also landed a guest mix on longtime favorite college radio station WKKC, 89.3 FM (remember that I listened to this radio station during my high school years). A mix tape that I recorded just two months prior was played on-the-air.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)tag:phantomgreyent.com,2005:Post/61770411996-07-31T06:03:36-05:002020-10-09T06:22:14-05:00July 1996 – THE BIG BREAK
<p>A year after arrival at RAF Alconbury I was again on the move, this time to RAF Mildenhall. Fortunately there was House Music in Newmarket. The location was Celebrities, the promotion was "Social Intercourse", and the DJ was Chris Corbett. I was able to secure a residency, playing the opening set.</p>
DJ Purple (the duke of House)