Red Bull Thre3Style Regional Finalist DJ MSquared: I Can't Live Without My Powerbook

The Disc Jockey better known as the DJ is the life of the party. He or she is in charge of the music and keeping the crowd entertained. Remember the days when the biggest and baddest parties were hosted by the kid with the loudest boom box...Or the DJ carrying in the  "Peaches" crates with his well worn album collection?  Well the wonderful world  of technlogy has changed the game. I had a chance to sit down with the ultimate party starter DJ MSquared, the newly crowned Red Bull Thre3Style SE Regional Finalist, discussing the game changers and how they have changed the rules of party engagement. 

Roz: How did you get your start DJing parties?
DJ MSquared: I got my start DJing fraternity and sorority parties while attending Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. After that I moved to Orlando and began working as a DJ in the local club scene.
Roz: What else do you do besides the DJ thing?
DJ MSquared: I am a music producer as well...I produce original music and remixes.
Roz: So exactly what moves you to do what you do?
DJMSquared: I have a love for the music... A love for the energy I can create in a room. Also my mother instilled a love for music which runs deep within and pushes me to make great things happen
Roz: The equipment you used then is way different than now. How has technology/equipment changed over the years?
DJ MSquared: Yeah its crazy when you think about it in 2003 while attending FAU I used things like the turntable and  mixer to do what I do. And now I have a G4 Mac Tower at home loaded with the latest software like protools logic I use for producing music.  When I DJ I use my Mac Powerbook installed with Serato Scratch Live software.
Roz: Tell me more... what's Serato Scatch Live?
DJ MSquared: Basically, this computer software allows me to recreate the traditional DJ experience through the use of their technology. I can manipulate a physical turntable without losing the integrity of the music while mixing the music. It has a feature that also tabulates the BPM ( beats per minute) in a song which can help determine which songs you want to include in a certain mix. 
Roz: Can it help identify or match up what beat, songs, or music you should play together?
DJ MSquared: No it doesn't give record recommendations but it seems like that would be the next evolution
Roz: No more carrying crates with albums right?
DJ MSquared: Exactly, there is a feature in Serato Scratch Live that integrates my iTunes playlist into a easy filing crate system on my hard drive.
Roz: Does this technology make your job a easy no brainer?
DJ MSquared: No not at all.. The best way to determine what to play is best achieved by feeling the vibe of the party goers. Being in tuned to what they want to hear and what's moving them to party is my #1 priority.
Roz: What other techie gadgets and/or platforms has influenced your business?
DJ MSquared: Serato has a feature which allows me to record my mixes. I record pretty much all of my mixes. and through the use of ITunes I have a podcast available I update frequently with new mixes.
Roz: So exactly how does this work and why is it important to your business
DJ MSquared: The podcast on iTunes allows user to download and enjoy my mixes and rate them accordingly. I utilize Podomatic as my host which automatically links my stuff to the iTunes podcast directory. Its available for all no matter if you use iTunes or not. Just go to Soul 2Go Podcast to check it out for yourself. I'm always thinking of ways to market myself and this podcast is one of many ways that works for me.
Roz: What other social networking sites do you use to stay connected to the people?
DJ MSquared: Of course I have my website DJ MSquared .Some of the more popular networks I use is Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace.
Roz:Which one do you like the best?
DJ MSquared: I really like Twitter because it allows me to connect with people in real time. I often send out positive inspirational quotes to my followers who often respond back with their own personal thoughts. But I also like using FaceBook too.  It's great because I can also stay in touch with friends and family.
Roz:Whats your thoughts on some of the new personal games and platforms like DJ Hero, iPhone apps, and online DJ games?
DJ MSquared: DJ Hero is a ok game...I think there are some things that can be added to make it more realistic and fun. Also, there a couple of online games I have tried simulate the DJ experience pretty well. As far as a iPhone app I have been approached by a couple of people wanting my input on what I think should be included in a iPhone app.
Roz: In your mind would this app be more appropriate for DJ's and/or for the people who may have a interest in this type of app?
DJMSquared: I think you can create something that crosses over and appeals to both sides. You can load up the app with resources for the professional DJ as well as having content like mixes and simulated games for the average person.
Roz: You have given this some thought I see...
DJMSqaured: Yes,it's definitely something I would like to pursue in the near future.
Roz: Well thats what I do.So if  you need help developing a prototype you can call on  MH Mobile Group .
Roz:  As we wrap up I want to thank you for your time. You got to make me one promise though.
DJ MSquared: Whats that? Anything
Roz: Next time I'm in Orlando you got to let me come and watch you do your thing in the DJ booth. I want to see how you work all of these new techie gadgets.
DJ MSquared: Of course.. For sure its a deal.

DJ MSquared I wish you the best as you continue your pursuit to be crowned the National Red Bull Thre3Style Champion . The next stop is Denver and then on to Paris for the international championship.
If you would like to book DJ-Msquared  for your next event, party, and/or special occasion you can contact him at Book MSquared . I guarantee you won't be dissappointed.

RSM