DJ Mark Anthony

GD:

How did you start your career in the music industry?

Who were your inspirations?

MA:

I got my first break to DJ in a nightclub quite unexpectedly. In my early years of djing, I used to play Rap, Funk, R&B & some Reggae that my friends would bring back from Jamaica. At the time I was part of this rap band and we got a gig at a hot club. The resident DJ really tripped out on the tricks I could do with the turntables and he basically invited me back to play…the rest is history.

GD:

You travel and spin for many diverse audiences, both domestically and outside of the U.S.

How do you describe your style and what aspect of it appeals to such a wide variety of people?

MA:

I really never know where to begin when I’m asked this. I definitely have my own style of playing. My problem is that I like so many styles of house music and I try to incorporate as many as possible during my sets. I like to try new things and experiment with them on different levels. Too much of the same gets to be extremely monotonous and non-creative as well. I think that one of the things that appeal to people is that they know they are going to go for a ride and discover some new music…

GD:

What about club residencies… where have you maintained a regular spot?

MA:

At the moment I have two residencies one at Surface and the other at Red Lite which are both after hour clubs.

GD:

It must be difficult to manage balancing your rigorous DJ schedule with time needed in the production studio.

Do you prefer one activity over the other?

MA:

I love both equally. However traveling can get to be grueling at times.


GD:

Turning to your production work, which of the tracks that have you remixed or produced are your favorites?

MA:

Neo Tokyo “All Trust Is Gone”, Afterlife feat. Shirley M. “Release Me”

GD:

Most people have no concept of the amount of time and effort that is spent in the production studio.

Can you describe the creative process for you in producing or remixing a track?

MA:

When time isn’t an issue and the label doesn’t need it the day after, I like to get into the vibe of the song and explore the different possibilities with what it is that I’m going to remix or produce.

For example, I may focus on the vocal and musical arrangement, which can sometimes be very complex and time consuming instead of going for the recipe… if you know what I mean!!!

Where things get even more complex is in the mix which is the point where we must take everything we compose (all the sounds) and make it sound right. Many hours alone are spent in front of that mixing console!!!

GD:

Certain vocalists appear to match well with the musical style of specific remixers or producers.

Have you found any artists who fit your remixing style better than others?

Are there any vocalists, remixers or producers who you want to collaborate with in the future?

MA:

Any artist who sticks to one producer is limiting his or hers possibilities. There are many people in the industry that I would enjoy working with.

I’ve collaborated on several projects in the past and have always walked away with a different perspective. I always learn new ways of doing things.

GD:

Any upcoming releases or projects that you can share with us?

MA:

Just completed remixing Dynamix’s new song called “Bodyfly” which is a stomper with some serious vocals by Inda Matrix on Kult Records.

Afterlife feat. Shirley M. “Release Me” which is a cover of the 1994 classic by Industry.

Lectroluxe which is the band that my partner Sandra and I have formed to create fun and interesting ambient/living room music. We’re mixing the album as we speak!!!

GD:

Finally, if you could change one thing about the music industry or club scene, what would it be?

MA:

GETTING PAID ON TIME & BOOTLEGGERS!!!