Andy Smith: Mixes Make The World Go Round

Once A DJ

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Andy Smith, a prominent DJ and producer, shares his journey through the world of music, starting from his early fascination with mixing records in the late 70s to becoming a key figure in the Bristol music scene. He discusses how his passion for diverse genres influenced his eclectic DJ style, emphasizing that mixing records was not just a technical skill but an art form that creates unique experiences for audiences. The conversation touches on the challenges of adapting to the digital age, where music consumption has become more disposable and less intimate, leading to a shift in how mixes are perceived. Smith reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his career, noting how it forced him to reevaluate his approach and find new ways to connect with audiences, including live streaming. As he looks to the future, Andy is excited about upcoming projects, including a mix that showcases his love for soundtracks and lesser-known hip hop tracks, reaffirming his commitment to keeping the essence of DJing alive.

Takeaways:

• Andy Smith discusses how he got into DJing in the late 70s by following the emerging disco culture and mixing records in Bristol.
• The importance of being open to various music genres is highlighted, as Andy explains how his diverse taste influences his DJing style.
• Smith recalls the challenges of learning to mix without much guidance, relying on a library book to understand DJ techniques.
• The podcast delves into how the rise of technology and streaming has changed the perception and practice of DJing among younger audiences.
• Andy shares anecdotes about his experiences DJing across different cities and the unique record digging opportunities that arose during tours.
• The conversation touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the music industry, particularly how it affected DJing opportunities and personal finances.

Mentioned in this episode:

Reissued classics from Be With Records

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