Yellow Claw Meet & Greet

Yellowclaw is about to put San Diego on “Lock Down”!

We're giving you a chance to meet the dynamic duo Yellow Claw at Tramps Like Us in September!

*MUST have a valid ticket to Tramps Like Us 2017

GET LO GIVEAWAY

LED x LO'99 Giveaway (Contest on Hive.co)

Interview with Kastle

Kastle Reflections Album

Interview by Michael Walkusky

We got to catch up with Barrett Richards a.k.a. Kastle before his show in San Diego this Friday. Here what he had to say about influences on his new album, favorite Korean spa in California & favorite producers of the moment:

What was the creative process like for Reflections?

It was just all about letting go and letting my instincts guide me. Through meditation before every studio session, I looked to create a dialogue with my subconscious and to just let that communication become involved in the album writing process.

How does Reflections differ from your past music?

I wouldn’t say it really differs at all in regards to the style. I’ve always been inspired by the same timeless sounds of garage, jungle, footwork, bass music, etc. I’d say what is mostly different is the production values and that the songs are slightly more open to interpretation than some of my past pop-leaning works.

When did you start meditating, and how has meditation influenced your music?

It’s something I’ve been interested in and aware of since high school really. I began studying eastern philosophies and mysticism when I was 16. Taoism was the philosophy that really resonated with me. The inner/mystical depths is no easy area to navigate and at 34 I’m still learning so much more and after all the years more and more dots connect. You just keep peeling back the layers of the veil. You encounter forces within yourself that are not always helpful, but when you overcome them you become more empowered by that energy. I just feel like in the past year I’ve had some significant breakthroughs that have allowed me to be more open about my experience and share it in the form of an album.

What do you enjoy most about running your record label Symbols?

It’s a combination of my love for music, pushing boundaries and helping other artists. It’s great to be a part of something bigger than myself and I hope that we can contribute to culture for the greater good.

Who are your favorite producers at the moment?

I’ve got a pretty diverse rotation on lately with artists like Kid Smpl, Lil Yachty, DVA, Gaika, S4U, Kassel Mosse, my.head, SURVIVE, 2814, Dark0 and Jacques Greene.

Which producers have influenced you the most throughout your career?

Three artists that have had a tremendous impact on me at different stages of my life are Moby, Aphex Twin and Burial.

What have been the most transformational musical experiences of your career?

I’d say launching Symbols in 2012 and putting out my debut album in 2013 were really huge for me. Because I have such an independent drive so it felt incredible taking that step. This new album is another extension of that. Also festival sets at Lightning In A Bottle, Shambhala and Coachella were very transformational for me.

What have been the most transformational cultural experiences from tour?

I’d say just the culmination of touring and the experience of travel. Learning that no matter race, religious affiliation, geographical location, etc, at the end of the day, we are all the same.  Seeing that first hand is crucial, and I wish more people in rural America (where I grew up) had the ability to travel more. There are so many people in America who never have real conversations with people different than them and therein lies the disconnect.

Speaking of cultural experiences, I read in another interview that your manager sent you to a Korean spa after you released Reflections. As someone who married into a Korean family, I've become a big fan of Korean spas. Do you have a favorite spa in Koreatown or OC?

"I Spa" in Irvine! It’s dope, I didn’t want to leave.

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Don't miss Kastle's return to the Bang Bang theater this Friday in San Diego!

RSVP + $5 Pre-Sale

Interview with MSTRKRFT

MSTRKRFT Interview

We had a chance to sit down with Jesse of MSTRKRFT to ask some questions before they make their way to San Diego on their first tour in over five years. Read what he had to say:

Q: Who/what were the biggest influences for OPERATOR?

The gear we decided to use really became a third member of the band on this record.  We decided to sorta take a back seat to the machines and not try to force them to do what we wanted, and instead follow their lead.  It creates a kind of feedback loop while you work.  Sust deciding to do that was the biggest influence on how the record turned out.

MSTRKRFT Operator Spotify Full Album

Q: What was the creative process like for OPERATOR?

We would turn on all the gear, hit record on the computer and then not look at it until we were leaving.  We didn't want to look at a screen or think about making music that way.  We just focused on the gear we had in front of us and tried to forget about things like wether or not the music we were making had a purpose beyond just making us happy.

Q: How do you feel about OPERATOR now that it's finished and released?

We are very happy with it.  It's always good to see your work get released like this.  We started work on the next album as soon as this record was mixed, and having this out feels like a door has opened for us to push things much further.

Q: How do your current live shows differ from the live shows you played after releasing 'The Looks' and 'Fist of God'?

The biggest difference is that we are mostly performing live now, although we still DJ when it makes more sense for the club etc.  In terms of what we are playing when we DJ, I think the feel on operator is expressed there as well.

Q: How has your modular equipment influenced your recorded music and your live shows?

The key for us was not using equipment on the record that we couldn't also travel with and use live.  The modular setups are always evolving to some extent, and have changed many times this year already.  Working this way really makes every show very different, and allows us to really feed off of the room more than ever before.

Q: What are your thoughts on the current state of dance music?

I feel like this is a somewhat impossible question to answer.  It's like asking someone about a city they visited, in that the things they experienced shaped their opinion.  I think dance music is in an incredible place right now, with more creativity and resolve than ever before, but then thats just based on the things I pay attention to and listen to.  I'm sure theres a sea of garbage out there, but if I don't pay attention, for me it doesn't exist.  hope that makes sense.

Q: How has dance music changed since you first released 'The Looks'?

It seems like its gone through a cycle and into a place we had hoped and imagined it would.

Q: Who are your favorite DJs/producers?

Gary Beck, Robert Hood, Phantoms Revenge, Truncate, Surgeon, Len Faki… hard to choose!

Q: Who are your favorite bands?

Right now?  Cult Leader, Naomi Punk… again, very very hard to choose!

Q: What can MSTRKRFT fans expect from you guys over the next few years?

We will keep making music that makes us happy.

Don't miss the San Diego stop on their tour over Labor Day Weekend! Limited $20 tickets left here.

Win Tickets to the Next Night Bass Party!

Sinden Night Bass Giveaway LED presents

Enter to win a pair of tickets to Night Bass in San Diego by purchasing a ticket to Sinden's show this Friday:

All you have to do is purchase a ticket to Sinden's show at Bang Bang to be entered to win a PAIR of tickets to the next Night Bass takeover in San Diego!

Get your $10 tickets here.

*All fans who already purchased tickets are automatically entered

Official Rules:

* NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER THIS CONTEST. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE CHANCES OF WINING. CONTEST IS ONLY OFFERED IN THE UNITED STATES. The Night Bass Contest (“Contest”) begins at 8:00:00 p.m. Pacific Time (PT) on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 and ends at 8:59:59 p.m. PT on Friday, April 8, 2016 (the “Promotion Period”).* ALTERNATIVE ENTRY METHODS: You are also eligible to enter the Contest absent compliance with the above stipulations. To submit an entry by mail, legibly print on a 3” x 5” card: ‘led gold pass’; your full name; address; e-mail address; and daytime telephone number.

* WINNER SELECTION: Selection of winners will be conducted by random drawing from all eligible entries received during the Promotion Period and by the conclusion of the Promotion Period. Selections will take place throughout the promotion period.

* WINNERS LIST: A Winners List will be available to all participants by Tuesday, September 3, 2013. To receive a list of winners, please send a self addressed stamped envelope to: LED Presents, 939 West Kalmia St, San Diego, CA 92101

* AGE OF ENTRY: Must be 21+ to win.

* GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS: By entering the Contest and/or accepting any prize, entrants agree that: they will waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Rules. All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as the winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law including, without limitation, winner’s name on a “Winner’s List.” Winner may also be required to provide a copy of his/her valid state issued driver’s license, other government-issued photo identification card or U.S. Passport. The winner’s name will be kept on file for two (2) years after the end of the Contest. Decisions made by LED Presents in relation to this Contest are final and binding in all matters, including, without limitation, interpretation of these Rules and the awarding of the Contests prizes, and cannot be appealed. By entering, entrants agree to release LED Presents from any and all liability claims or actions of any kind whatsoever for injuries, death, damages or losses to persons and property which may be sustained in connection with the receipt, ownership, use or misuse of the prizes, or while preparing for, participating in, utilizing and/or traveling to any prize-related activity, including any indirect, incidental, consequential or punitive damages. LED Presents expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for injury, death or loss to any person or property relating to the delivery and/or subsequent use, malfunction, availability, and delay in delivery of the prize awarded. LED Presents shall not be liable to winner or any other person for failure to supply the prizes or any part thereof, by reason of any acts of God, any action(s), regulation(s), order(s) or request(s) by any governmental or quasi-governmental entity (whether or not the action(s), regulations(s), order(s) or request(s) prove(s) to be invalid), equipment failure, terrorist acts, earthquake, war, fire, flood, explosion, unusually severe weather, hurricane, embargo, labor dispute or strike (whether legal or illegal), labor or material shortage, transportation interruption of any kind, work slow-down, civil disturbance, insurrection, riot, or any other cause beyond LED Presents’ sole control. LED Presents shall not be responsible for any cancellations, delays, diversions or substitutions or any act or omissions whatsoever by the air carrier(s), hotel(s), or other transportation companies or any other persons providing any of these services and accommodations to passengers including any results thereof such as changes in services or accommodations necessitated by the same. LED Presents does not make any warranty, representation or guarantee, express or implied, in fact or in law, relative to the use of any prize including, without limitation, quality, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any additional expenses, omission, delays, re-routing or acts of any government or authority. LED Presents reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to disqualify entrants who attempt to tamper with this Contest in any way. All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. Additional restrictions may apply. The Internal Revenue Service requires Form 1099-MISC to be issued and filed for each recipient who received a prize/award if the annual aggregate is at least $600 or more. The Form 1099-MISC may be furnished to the recipient directly from LED Presents. The recipient is responsible for any income tax liability and should consult his/her tax advisor for the proper tax treatment of this income on his/her tax return. Any attempt to deliberately damage the Contest or operation of the Contest is unlawful and subject to legal action by LED Presents who may seek damages to the fullest extent permitted by law.

* PRIVACY POLICY/DATA COLLECTION: Entrant consents that LED Presents may use entrant’s information for purposes of administration of this Contest and for prize fulfillment.

* QUESTIONS: Any questions regarding the Contest should be directed to PR@myLifeEveryDay.com

 

Win a Ticket to my LED USA 2016

my LED USA 2016 Save The Date

Win a FREE Ticket to This Year's my Life Every Day USA Party!

  1. Like & Repost the announcement

  2. Tag your #LEDRaveFamily +#myLEDUSA

  3. Comment with your favorite DJ(s)

Winners will be announced on the LED Instagram!

Win Free Tickets to Jack Yo Lantern by Carving a Pumpkin

Jack Yo Pumpkin 2015 Contest

Enter to win a FREE PAIR of tickets to Jack Yo Lantern over Halloween weekend by carving a pumpkin!

Winners will be announced by October 29th. Good luck!

Win a Meet & Greet With Aryay + Punch Bowl

Congrats to @heeyitsmelissa!

Aryay Bang Bang San Diego Meet & greet giveaway

We're excited to welcome Aryay to San Diego for the first time this Saturday for his show at Bang Bang & would like to give our fans a chance to meet the man himself & enjoy a flaming Bang Bang punch bowl before his set!

Enter to win by:

  1. Following @LEDpresents on Instagram
  2. Commenting below with the Flaming Punch Bowl YOU will order
  3. Be sure to include your Instagram profile link!

Winner will be selected by Friday, 9/4. Good luck!

 

 

Bang Bang Punch Bowl Menu

Win a Meet & Greet with Ghastly!

Congrats to our lucky winner!

Ghastly Bang Bang San Diego Meet & Greet Contest

Want to meet Ghastly?

We're giving away a free pair of tickets + a meet & greet with the man himself at his San Diego show this Thursday to our lucky fans!

  1. REPOST this photo on Instagram with #LEDxGhastly
  2. TAG your friends
  3. COMMENT why you want to meet Ghastly THIS Thursday

    Winners will be announced by Wednesday on our Instagram. Good luck!

Win Tickets to Skrillex's Sold Out Show at Quartyard

Winner has been announced here!

Voyeur San Diego LED presents Skrillex

Will The Real Skrillex Please Stand Up?

 

We've got one PAIR of tickets for Skrillex's SOLD OUT

show at Quartyard to give away to our lucky fans!

  1. Download the LED presents Mobile App
  2. Take a photo with one of the Skrillex Photocards
  3. Post the photo on Instagram and/or Twitter
  4. Hashtag #OhYouMeanSonny?

Every entry counts!

* Profile must remain public until the contest ends *

MijaSkrillex RezzSkrillex

The lucky winner will be selected by Saturday 9/5. Good luck!

Win a Meet & Greet with 3LAU

3LAU Fluxx San Diego LED presents

Win a free pair of tickets + a meet & greet with 3LAU!

It's very simple...

  1. FOLLOW @LEDpresents on Instagram
  2. LIKE the 3LAU video
  3. COMMENT with the name of your favorite 3LAU tune

Congrats to our 5 winners!

OMFG! NYE San Diego DJ Competition

LED’s OMFG! NYE SD is the biggest New Years Eve event in Southern California. Featuring headlining acts Hardwell, Tiesto, Eric Prydz,Deorro, Flosstradamus, Madeon, and many more, this is one zonkey show you’re going to want to get in on.

 OMFG! NYE San Diego 2014

Every notable on any lineup got their start somewhere. Sometimes that start is the opportunity to play a set in front of the right eyes and ears. And this NYE, LED is giving you the chance to play a set in “THE ZOO” at this year’s OMFG! SD.

This is more than just a DJ set. This is the opportunity to play to a hyped crowd, show off your latest tracks and mixing skills, hang backstage, and throw something awesome on your resume. Get to mixing and sharing and good luck!

For more info head here.

Congrats to our winners!

Runners Up

Honorable Mention

Top 3 Winners

- 30 minute opening (Day TBD)

- 2 AA three day passes

- 2 GA passes to their night for guests

Runners Up

- 1 GA ticket to night of their choice

Honorable Mention

- LED t-shirt

Jack Yo Pumpkin

Jack Yo Lantern Pumpkin Carving Contest

Enter to win a FREE PAIR of tickets to Jack Yo Lantern over Halloween weekend by carving a pumpkin!

Winners will be announced on October 29th. Good luck!

Jack Yo Lantern Pumpkin Flosstradamus

Tramps Like Us Interview with Cole Plante

Cole Plante Tramps Like Us San Diego 2014
To say that Cole Plante is one of the next young bright stars for the future of EDM would be an understatement. The 17 year-old producer and DJ, a native of Los Angeles, already boasts a resume most people could only dream of having. He’s already played with some of the biggest names in the league such as: Porter Robinson, Avicii, and Steve Angello. He was performing at Lollapalooza at 16 years old, the youngest DJ ever to grace the renowed music festival in Chicago. The following summer “Lie To Me” was released, and a short time later was crowned the #1 spot on the Billboard Dance Charts. Since then, Cole Plante has released another hit track “If I Fall”, with Myon & Shane 54, and has continued as producer to create in other realms outside of EDM. Cole has already collaborated with composers such as Alex Wurman, and Joe Trapanese on TV, film, and video game projects. The sky is the limit for the young producer, and we can only guess at what his seemingly unbounded potential takes him next. 
Q: You’ve grown up surrounded by musically inclined family and friends, who was your biggest influencer to help establish what you consider your signature sound?
A: 80s synth pop hands down as a whole is my biggest influence. 
Q: As a youngster in high school, you were involved in a range of extracurriculars such as band, track and field, on top of a load of honors classes. How have these activities in the past influence you today or for your future career path?
A: This being my senior year is really incredible. I love every minute of being in high school and balancing it with my career. Both marching band and track have taught me discipline and the ability to stay focused.
Q: Of all the venues and clubs you’ve played for in the past, which set was the most memorable for you and why?
A: I would have to say Lollapalooza because all my musical influences from New Order, The Killers, Two Door Cinema Club, Skrillex, Dillon Francis, Diplo and Steve Angello among others, were there that weekend. These are all artists/bands I admire and respect musically, and it was the largest crowd I played for (20K). Also, last' year's OMFG! NYE was unforgettable from production to artists and it was extra special because it was my first NYE event & I have LED to thank for that. San Diego fans have also been hugely supportive ever since my first event there a couple years ago during the IDentity Festival tour and it's one of my favorite cities to visit & play. 

Q: You’ve explored several musical genres and instruments including piano, the trombone, and the presence of ‘80s and ‘90s synth pop. Which of these, or combination thereof would you say influenced your style the most today?
A: It's a combination of everything really. I'm always pulling from classical instruments and electronic as well. I try to incorporate influences from everything such as soundtracks and movie scores, rock bands and electronic artists. I'm a strong believer that the best music grabs influences from many different things and that's how it is for my music.
Q: You say that one day you would like to be a composer, while still DJing. Did you always have this vision of yourself as a composer? Or did it grow on you during your path, and if so, how?
A: My interest in film composing started ever since joining orchestra class in 7th grade. Through the many different projects (via Disney), this led to collaborating with film composers Joe Trapanese, Alex Wurman, and John Swihart. That pretty much sealed the deal on my decision to continue to work within the film composing community & I'm currently working on a new exciting film project that will be released in the coming months. 
Q: You’ve released two singles from Disney’s Hollywood Records label last year, how do you feel working with them and your together plan to further your career path? 
A: It's been amazing. The company as a whole are connected to many different facets that I love such as film, TV & the gaming world. They've allowed total freedom in my musical creativity and have been fully supportive of all my projects even outside of the company. They've also helped me set-up my own label imprint Teknicole which has been a dream of mine following the footsteps of my peers Skrillex, Axwell & Avicii who've all collaborated with Disney. 
Q: Your collaboration with Myon & Shane 54, titled ‘If I Fall’, has been a huge hit. Do you have any more plans to work with the dance maestros again in the future?

A: It was our 2nd collaboration following "Lie To Me" and it's been amazing playing top clubs / festivals across the U.S. & with them covering overseas. Seeing the crowd sing our song and going off during the drops, you can't ask for anything more. Also, fans posting pics of radio stations playing our music is surreal as well! We're both concentrating on our own singles / album at the moment so hopefully our schedules allow it in the coming future!

Tramps Like Us 2014 Line-Up

Don't miss Cole Plante at Tramps Like Us over Labor Day weekend!

TICKETS

LED Day Club passes + Meet & Greet with Showtek

Showtek LED Day Club free tickets Palm Springs

Enter to win 4 FREE passes + a meet & greet with Showtek at LED Day Club here!

2 winners will be chosen. Must be 21+ to win.
Must provide own transportation to Palm Springs.

Showtek LED Day Club set times Palm Springs Coachella

Interview with Maxim of Prodigy

You may know him as the fierce MC behind Prodigy, but Maxim has extended his artistic ventures yet again as he embarks on a U.S. tour to showcase his own skills behind the decks. Having recently paired up with MC Cianna Blaze and with new music in the works, we wanted to catch up with Maxim to get to know the multi-dimensional artist better.

Keep reading to find out what was on his playlists backstage at Prodigy shows, how he manages to keep a balance within his life, and what else he's working on at the moment. Don't miss him TONIGHT at Voyeur - get your $10 tickets HERE.

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You've been involved with electronic music for over two decades now. What has it been like to see it progress over time? What have been some of your defining moments?

I haven't really assessed the amount of time i've been in the scene - but I still enjoy it! One of the highlights for me was performing on stage with Rage Against The Machine in Japan.

We literally went on stage with them and I was freestyling with the guys. It was great.

An overwhelming number of artists refer to Prodigy when asked about their musical influences. Did the band have any idea how widely influential they would become?

It is something that I focus on but, yes, I realise we have been a big influence on a lot of music out there. It's all good - if you can inspire people to push music forward, then I feel I have done something positive.

Your ascent into DJing began when you started playing backstage after Prodigy shows. What could we have found on your playlists back then?

I basically played hip hop, rock and funk. Everything from Public Enemy to the Clash to James Brown to the Specials.

By partnering with MC Cianna Blaze, you've broken the stereotype of performing with a male MC. How did you two meet? Do you think there's a need for more female MCs in the industry?

I wanted to do something different from the stereotypical male MC.

I met Cianna through a mutual friend, and we clicked straight away. The more I worked with her I began to realise how talented she was, so we started to write music to put into the DJ set that she can perform live. This has taken her away from the 'Hype MC' I originally intended her to be.

She is my voice when I am behind the decks, and she adds sexiness to the the show as she is an attractive girl.

Most importantly she has a good voice. One of the key things for me in being an MC is having a dope voice. Some female MC's voices are so high, that they grate on you after a while.

The industry is getting more female MCs. They are getting their props now. It's a long time overdue, but they are here now.

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You've mentioned before that mental and physical fitness are important to you. How do you maintain both while juggling tour schedules, a family, and other obligations?

It's very hard, but this is my life, and this is what I enjoy doing. It's important to have balance on all levels, and to feed each part equally so no part suffers.

As far as the band goes - we all have families, so we work the touring out amongst ourselves. Over the years we have created a good touring structure.

Without mental and physical fitness I would have been burnt out years ago, but today, I feel I am at my peak of fitness mentally and physically.

Aside from music, you're also involved in visual art. What prompted you to start painting? Do you draw inspiration for your music and visual art from the same sources?

To be honest, the reason I got into art was because I needed some paintings for the wall space in my home - I wanted to buy some art and visited a few exhibitions.

When I was told the prices, I thought "I can do that!" So I went home and started painting. Then I realised I was really enjoying the freedom that art gave me - you can do anything you want, there are no boundaries.

As the years went by, I did a few commissions for friends. A friend of mine (Stuart Semple), who is a much respected artist, saw my paintings and said I should put on an exhibition. I did have doubts, but I trusted his opinion and here I am 11 years later.

You've just embarked on your U.S. tour and will be releasing music on the we Are noize (wAn) imprint. What else is in the works for you?

Yes I'm excited about being in the US on tour. I love touring and meeting people - travelling and playing music - so I'm looking forward to the next US tour already!

we Are noize is just an outlet that a couple of my friends and I have set up, that we can use to put out the music we have created.

In 2014 look out for Cianna Blaze. You will be seeing her skills soon, also.

I will also be working on my next art exhibition in the UK, and hope to bring that to the US sometime in 2014.

And we have the new Prodigy album coming out next year... I think that's enough on my plate for now, don't you?

Peace

M

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Win a FREE TICKET to the LED Dada Land Compound

Rules For Entry:

1. Change your profile picture to the "I'm Going to Dada Land" photo

Dada Land Compound San Diego LED presents
2. Change your cover photo to the Dada Land Compound Cover Photo
Dada Land Compound Line-Up
3. Photos must be set to public & remain on your Facebook until October 25th

Winner will be announced October 21st.  Good luck!

Laidback Luke Interview

Laidback Luke House of Blues San Diego

Lucas Cornelis van Scheppingen, better known to some simply as Laidback Luke, has been a driving force in dance music for the better part of the last decade. Born in Manila and raised in The Netherlands, Luke has made a name for himself with his quality productions and energetic DJ sets. Having remixed the likes of dance music pioneers Green Velvet, Daft Punk, and Underworld, he has grown to become a pioneer himself. While juggling title as label boss at Mixmash, throwing notorious Super You&Me parties across the globe, and curating a weekly radio show, he also manages to fit Kung Fu into his schedule.

We caught up with Luke as his Musically Driven bus tour begins to get the skinny on the artwork behind his label, upcoming projects, and where you can find him on his days off (rare as they are). You've got two chances to watch his skills behind the decks this week as he makes his way to House of Blues and Voyeur this Thursday, for an 18+ and 21+ show, respectively.
 1. You launched your "Super You&Me" parties in Amsterdam several years ago, which are now being held around the globe. You've even hosted Super You&Me stages at festivals such as EDC and Tomorrowland. How have the parties evolved since the first? Where would you like to throw a Super You&Me party that you haven't yet?
I'm very happy it latched on! I feel the crowd and even the DJs are getting the fun of it now. This was hard to get across at first, as I was the only one dressing up for instance.
We changed the name and style of it a couple of times too. My dream for it has always been to host festival arenas and I'm so happy we got there successfully! I think the only place next is on the moon ha ha.
2. You've openly discussed the tendency for some DJs to lose their sense of humility when reaching a certain point in their careers. In an industry that has shifted to treat DJs somewhat like rockstars, how does one maintain their sense of humility?
Don't believe your own hype. You're a human, we are all humans. You are just a very lucky one. And don't take it for granted! As it will be taken off of you as easily as it came.
Be thankful and respect every other human being as a human being. We are all equal! Staying humble can only help you, whereas becoming arrogant can cost you your career.
3. Illustrator Olivier Cramm curates the album artwork for the releases on your label, Mixmash. Are the funky, surrealist designs a reflection of the playful nature of your music? Or was that coincidence?
Yes it does! It's very fun most of the time. It has a hint of grafitti in there too, but yet, there's also a reference to some spooky stuff in there as well.
4. Your wife and fellow DJ, Gina Turner, has a well-known love for yoga, while you indulge in a bit of Kung Fu yourself. Does the mindful nature of these practices play a part in how you approach your music, either in the studio or behind the decks?
My Kung Fu is a way of life. It affects me as a human being. And in that sense it affect everything I do in life. Kung Fu means skill achieved through hard work, and I approach my music and career like that.
5. Your touring schedule has pretty much been non-stop the past several years. When you do have the odd day off, where can we find you?
You can find me in the kitchen cooking or practicing my Kung Fu and Tai Chi. I'm like obsessed and love it! But I'm doing this on a very high level now and I'm even a Kung Fu instructor. So I have to keep up my level too.
6. So far this year you've collaborated with Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Hardwell, and most recently, Martin Solveig. Your "Musically Driven" bus tour across North America is also just kicking off. What else is in the pipeline for you?
After 'Blow', my collab with Martin Solveig, I have a collab with Project 46 ready to be released. It will be a more big room type song. Currently working on tracks with Ferry Corsten,Will Sparks and Peking Duk as well. A lot of exciting music coming up!

Laidback Luke House of Blues VoyeurGET TICKETS HERE

Tramps Like Us Day 1 Preview

TLU_lineup_sketchy

Tramps Like Us is so close that we often find ourselves daydreaming about going crazy on the dance floor at the Valley View Casino CenterTo get you even more excited for the event, we're here with a nice little preview of the event. Today, we'll preview the first day of Tramps Like Us, which is taking place on Saturday, August 31st. 

The first name that appears on the bill is Brazzabelle. You might recognize the LEDdj from recent events such as My LED USA, HARD Summer and Splash House. She was also on The CW as the DJ for the 15th Annual Young Hollywood Awards. Hell, she even received a cameo spot in the video for "Hey Now" by Martin Solveig! There's no doubt that Brazzabelle is a rising star in the industry, and we are proud to have her as an LEDdj. She did a great job of kicking off My LED USA, and she will do the same for Tramps Like Us.

Next up on the alphabetical flier is Spanish wunderkind Danny Avila. The 18-year old has accomplished more over the last year than many DJs have done throughout their entire career. Avila played at Coachella, earned placement on Sirius XM for his radio show Ready to Jump, secured a residency at Hakkasan and to top it off, he's booked to play at TomorrowWorld. International superstar Tiesto is on record as saying that Avila is the next big superstar in the dance music industry. After doling out such high praise, it's only fitting that Tiesto signed Avila's new single "Tronco" to his record label Musical Freedom. Listen to "Tronco" and get excited to see the 18-year old Avila at Tramps Like Us before he truly hits international superstar status!

Dirty South's 2013 has been unlike any other year for the veteran Grammy-nominated producers. This year featured the release of the Dirty South's first ever studio album, Speed of LifeThe album hit #1 on the iTunes Dance Chart the day that it was released. Also, the house DJ/producer has a residency at XS Nightclub at Encore. His infectious vocal house tracks always gets people excited, and you can be sure that the Tramps Like Us crowd will be singing at the top of their lungs when he plays "City of Dreams" and "Walking Alone." 

At this point, everyone knows who Nicky Romero is. After he absolutely destroyed the Valley View Casino Center at LED Anniversary last year, everyone in San Diego knew that the Dutch DJ would become a superstar. He just surpassed one million 'likes' on Facebook, and his collaboration with Krewella titled "Legacy," is already at 500,000 listens on Soundcloud after just one month. We are lucky enough to be the first stop on his Nothing Toulouse North America Tour. Let's make sure we kick Nicky Romero's tour off right!

The Russian producer Proxy is next up on the lineup. Proxy aims to seek and destroy when he's spinning, and his unrelenting sets are known to make crowds go bonkers. He does not let up on stage as his blend of techno and electro tracks put the crowd under his spell. If you look up interviews Proxy has given in the past, you'll see that he is an intelligent and very blunt person. Growing up in the bleak Eastern Bloc was clearly influential on the talented Russian. When it comes to answering questions, Proxy never sugarcoats his responses. Proxy desires to CRUSH anything that stands in his path. We can't wait for him to crush the stage at Tramps Like Us!

Quintino is another Hakkasan resident DJ who's playing at Tramps Like Us. Prior to 2013, most people stateside only knew Quintino as a friend of Tiesto and Afrojack and as one of the guys who made "Epic." However, he's worked hard in 2013 to gain international attention. His new single "Puzzle" is currently in the Beatport Top 10, and he's quickly proving that he has what it takes to succeed. His high energy electro house and Dutch house set will be exciting to watch!

Will Sparks has been on fire recently. The Australian producer is currently at the forefront of the 'Melbourne Sound' movement. San Diegans should know all about the bouncy style known as Melbourne Sound, because LEDdj TJR'hit "Ode to Oi" is a perfect example of what the Melbourne Sound is all about. In fact, TJR even edited Will Sparks' track "Ah Yeah." If you have yet to hear "Ah Yeah," you might have heard Will Sparks' remix of "Blurred Lines" by Robin Thicke. The remix currently sits at #4 on the Beatport Top 10. We'll embed both "Ah Yeah" and the "Blurred Lines" remix below to help keep you bouncing until you can see Will Sparks on August 31st!

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Interview with R3hab

Notorious for his signature electro house sound and kinship with fellow Dutch producer Afrojack, R3hab has been paving a promising career for himself as a DJ and producer over the past few years. With successful releases on Afrojack's own Wall Recordings and Tiesto's Musical Freedom, he has joined the ranks of DJs adorning the lineups at festivals and clubs around the world. Mastering the art of transforming pop hits into club tracks, he has also fittingly released remixes for artists as diverse as Enrique Iglesias and Usher. 
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We caught up with R3hab to discuss collaborations, connecting with fans, and what he has in store for the rest of 2013. Be sure to catch him this Friday at Voyeur, and tune into his weekly radio show "I Need R3hab" on Sirius XM's Electric Area.
R3hab Voyeur San Diego
LED: You've had the opportunity to remix big names such as J. Lo and Katy Perry. Do you approach pop music differently in the studio?
R3hab: Yes, when remixing big names like this it's important that I try to embrace the vocals and make a version that still has enough of the original left, but can also be played in the club!
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LED: Your career kickstarted when Afrojack signed you to his label and pushed your music. Have you considered starting your own label to release music from up and comers you believe to have potential?
R3hab: Yes, maybe in the future when I feel I have enough time and experience to run a label like I want to!
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LED: From Hardwell to Ferruccio Salvo to Koen Groeneveld, you've worked with a wide array of artists. Who would be your dream collaboration that you have yet to work with? What makes a good pairing in the studio?
R3hab: Calvin Harris, he is a great writer and such an amazing producer! A good studio partner knows how to work together and you have to have patience to work together!
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LED: Social media is a huge tool for artists to promote themselves and their work. You're no stranger to personally interacting with your fans over Facebook and Twitter. Clearly the connection is important to you; how do you think this has affected your relationship with the fans, as well as your career?
R3hab: I get really excited when I have a lot of social media activity before a gig. It is like people cheering before you enter the boxing ring.
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LED: You've played so many gigs across the globe, from here in San Diego to the hometown of your lineage, Morocco. Where would you say you find the best party?
R3hab: It is so hard to say, but I must say California and New York go hard!
R3hab V
LED: You recently performed live in Miami before the Real Madrid vs. Chelsea Championship. How was the show? Did you stay to watch the match?
R3hab: The show was amazing. Once they turned off the lights and people grabbed their mobile phones, it just looked insane. I had goosebumps from head to toe!  I also got to watch the match, which was a good game. Definitely a funny moment had to be when a fan ran on the field and hugged Ronaldo.
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LED: In a previous interview, you mention the importance of the organic progression in a career rather than one that is quick to rise and fall. How has this mindset played a role in the development of R3hab? Is there any advice you would give to those pursuing a similar career?
R3hab: I would just practice and never give up, try to build up fans one by one. You don't get there over night.
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LED: What have been the highlights of 2013 so far for you? What's in store for the rest of the year?
R3hab: Amazing year so far with great festivals and club gigs! A lot of new tracks coming with Steve Aoki, NERVO, Ummet Ozcan and Lucky Date to name a few.
Don’t miss R3HAB at Voyeur this Friday, August 23rd and at Tramps Like Us on Saturday, August 31st!

R3HAB Voyeur LED presents