Charles Feelgood djforums interview

djforums would like to thank ej20 and Charles Feelgood for making the interview possible.
March 28,2003: Charles Feelgood / djforums interview


DJF: When did you know you wanted to be a Profession Club DJ?
DJ Feelgood: It didn't start out that way, I just wanted to play records and it ended up being my job! Pretty fun job eh?


DJF: Who influenced you as a DJ and recording artist?
DJ Feelgood: I think my first memories of a DJ was Wayne Davis. He is the owner of the Paradox where Fever takes place. I used to watch him all the time! I also like to hear Teddy Douglas of the Basement Boys.


DJF: What equipment did you start with?
DJ Feelgood: I started with two turntables with no pitch control and a radio shack mixer. I still take them on the road today. Sike!


DJF: What was the first record ever bought?
DJ Feelgood: Rappers delight!


DJF: How did you get into the music business?
DJ Feelgood: I started doing parties for the employees of a store I was managing years ago and the parties just kept getting bigger and bigger..


DJF: How many records/cds do you travel with and how do you decide what format(aka track selection) of tracks to bring?
DJ Feelgood: I never know what track I'm gonna play. It's all, "as I go." I usually take 100-125 records with me every weekend. Usually I'll play about 25 records in a 2 hour set.


DJF: What is your stance on a digital medium of DJing?
DJ Feelgood: I play mostly records. I only play cd's when I have to, It's just a personal preference. They sound warmer and are more fun to play with.


DJF: Do you ever get nervous before you play anymore?
DJ Feelgood: I get asked this question all the time! No i never get nervous anymore! I used to though, I would drive myself crazy years ago. I would get a set all planned out and then I'd realize that it wasn't going to work and I would freak out!


DJF: Is there anything in particular that keeps your level of interest and enjoyment so high after been doing it for so long?
DJ Feelgood: The Music. I'm lovin' all the eighties influenced stuff at the moment, it's bringin' me back!


DJF: Do you prefer smaller clubs or large venues?
DJ Feelgood: I'm starting to like the smaller venues. They are very personal and alot of fun.


DJF: After accomplishing so much as a DJ, what are the best and the worst things that have come from your level of success?
DJ Feelgood: The pressure to stay on top and current-and the traveling after 9/11 has been difficult-but at the same time the traveling has also been a blessing. I love seeing how other people live


DJF: What do your parents think of your DJing career?
DJ Feelgood: My parents think I'm a superstar. It's so funny to me-one day I'll have to break the news to them.. I'm just playin' other peoples's songs!


DJF: What are the 5 albums you're digging right now or 5 CDs currently in your CD player?
DJ Feelgood: Jack Johnson- In between Dreams
Scissors Sisters - Scissor Sisters
Duran Duran - Astronaut
Zero 7 - Simple Things
Kitsune


DJF: What were your most and least favorite gigs?
DJ Feelgood: My favorite gigs are New Orleans and playing in Denver at the Church or Vinyl. I get nervous when I go to South America. It can be fun, but a little dangerous.


DJF: What do you feel the trend within America is with electronic music compared to overseas?
DJ Feelgood: America in my humble opinion seems more versatile when it comes to the music. England seems to get stuck on what's cool at the moment, whether it be speed garage, two step, handbag, or progressive.


DJF: Where do you see your career 10 years from now?
DJ Feelgood: That's a tough one-but whatever I'm doing I'm sure I'll still be buying and making music.


DJF: Do you think there is a bright future for electronic music?
DJ Feelgood: I can't say, but people need an alternative to rap. Probably the most popular music with youth today, and if I the only choice I have is to listen to rap. I'd rather listen to zip.


DJF: Which other DJ pushes you to be a better DJ, either artistically or technically?
DJ Feelgood: At this point of my life I just do my own thing. I don't really pay attention to the other guys, but it's always more fun to be on the road with other jocks.


DJF: If you weren't a Professional Club DJ, what do you think you would be doing now?
DJ Feelgood: I would probably open a Bar in Baltimore and call it "Shortys"!


DJF: So, I know you are a car guy. What is your dream car? Would it be modded?
DJ Feelgood: My dream car is probably a 1967 GT 500 Shelby Mustang and I wouldn't touch it!


DJF: Any closing advice?
DJ Feelgood: Practice Practice Practice and if you are starting out as a dj don't let a few bad reviews discourage you, I had em', and still get them myself!


www.djfeelgood.com