Born in the early 70 and raised in Brooklyn, DJ Spinna began his recording career in 1994 as a member of the hip-hop group Jigmastas. Even though he continues to compose raw beats, sampling jazz, soul and funk classics, he is more internationally recognized for his remixes and soulful House sets. DJ Spinna is also synonymous with ground-breaking, annual tribute events. Since 2001, “Wonder-Full” has celebrated the Guest of Honor, Stevie Wonder. This month, we interviewed the legendary Dj Spinna on the occasion of his contribution to the remix album “This is Neo-Soul” by Mark Adams, the Lead Keys/Rhodes, music director for Roy Ayers for the past 20 years.

Welcome! A glass of?

Coconut Water

Your first approach to DJing?

1982 was when I officially started with turntables that didn’t even match! One was a Pioneer and the other was a Technics, but both were belt-drive turntables, which were harder to learn on. My mixer was an early Gemini two-channel mixer. I recorded all of my early practice tape sessions to cassette, which I still own!

Your first approach to Beatmaking?

My first approach to beat making was in a Brooklyn recording studio in 1985, on an Oberheim DX DMX. 

7 or 12 inch?

12! More music information on vinyl! I love 7 inches too, compact and abbreviated mixes that get straight to the point, but as a DJ coming up in the 80s, the 12-inch was the most preferred format for the clubs. 

Mountains or sea?

Mountains, I’m not the best swimmer. 

What is your definition of a good remix?

Taking an original recording and transforming it into something new and elevating.

What comes to your mind if I say, Mark Adams?

Talented! 

How did you meet David schwartz who run Down Jazz Records?

I met David Schwarts in 2018 when he released a P Funk-related project called Detroit Rising. I was requested to spin the release event for the album. 

Can you explain your creative process for your « Open Letter » remix from Mark Adams original song?
I chose « Open Letter » because I love songs. The hook is something that I found would resonate after one listen. Plus, I also loved the original melody of the track; it’s very emotional. 

Software or hardware?

Hardware is always preferred, but not always convenient.

Sun or moon?

Sun!

Your maximum BPM?

130BPM.

When you dig, what are you obsessed with?

The music, first and foremost, sometimes the artwork, often times a particular artist, group, producer, or label. 

Your top 5 new releases

- Gena « The Pleasure Is Yours » 

- DJ Harrison « Electosoul »

- Mauricio Fleury « Revoada »

- Charles Webster and The South African Connection « From The Hill »

- Atjazz « Starbase 17 »

Your top 5 oldies

- Stevie Wonder « Innervisions » 

- Brand New Heavies « S/T »

- Eugene McDaniels « Headless Heroes Or The Apocalypse » 

- Max Roach « Members Don’t Get Weary »

- James Mason « Rhythm of Life »

The DJ who puts you crazy systematically?

Theo Parrish. 

What’s your motto, your adage, your favorite quote?

Keep love in your heart, even when it’s hard to.

What job would you like to do if you weren’t a DJ- beatmaker?

I would be an educator in the music field. 

Interviewed by DJ coshmar / photos © .