Exclusive Interview: DJ Funk
Last Friday night, EPIC had honor to interview the originator of juke ghetto house and local Chicagoan, DJ Funk, before he performed at Chicago's The Mid and brought that ghetto fabulous funk to the stage. You can tell a lot about someone by what they are wearing, and DJ Funk's personality definitely matched his attire! BLING on BLING on BLING, DJ Funk was rocking a sparkly gold blazer, pimped out diamond glasses and some marijuana socks. Showing off both his silly, funky fresh side and also laid back side, we got a chance to ask DJ Funk some questions, digging deep into his start up and what he has in store for fans this year.
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: How did you first get started in the music industry?
I've always listened to soul music when I was a shorty but I think the first music I personally liked was electro, they call it EDM now, but it was like Afrika Bambaataa. I still listen to that type of music and feel honored to perform with the legends, I'm old school!
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: Who were some of your initial music influences?
I can't lie, Michael Jackson and James Brown. Jackson was one of the first black guys on MTV. This jacket is inspired by both of them because everyone in this game is so serious right now, I just wanna have a good time and be silly!
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: What is your definition of booty house?
No one cursed in the industry before, so booty house is what I created. It's a combination of dance music and being real from the ghetto in one and I can do and say whatever I want in it.
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: How do you feel about the shift and change of the industry?
I feel wonderful about the shift in the industry, it is finally popular and I've been in the game so long playing ghetto booty trap EDM and they can't say anything about it because I am an old OG! I originated it, I can play what I want, I'm on the track list for Skrillex and Diplo. I also really respect and love the new school guys that are coming out.
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: What has been your most memorable experience while touring?
I got a blowjob while I was DJing! I was raging hard on some Long Island iced teas and was a little tipsy. It was kind of like a present for me, and I knew who it was after.
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: What do you have in store for 2015? Releasing any new things or touring?
Yes, a couple big things! I'll be going to Europe again soon and called up everyone I know, telling them I'm back in the game and need a hook up. So I have a dozen heavy hitters coming out and will be working with Skrillex, Diplo and Steve Aoki. Im also releasing a vinyl for all the old school DJs who can really DJ and take two 1200s and spin! This is just for fun, it's not about the money.
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: If you could collaborate with anyone in the industry, who would it be?
Daft Punk, I've worked with them before in Paris! I inspired them and was the second artist on "Teachers". Thomas, you've been to my crib and you owe me one, it's time to get ghetto again!
EPIC PRODUCTIONS: Finally, how do you bring the funk?
Being around good spirited people I can just be myself. So many people love me I don't even have to make up stuff or bring the funk, I AM the funk!
