When you think of house music, one place that may not automatically come to mind is Tampa, Fla. DJ Jask has been working hard for more than 20 years to change that. As one of the first people to introduce the southern-most state to the sounds of acid-jazz and house music in the early 1990s, he’s continued to build his reputation as a major player — not only in Florida, but all over the world. Jask makes a stop at Dharma Lounge on April 2 (along with Lisa Shaw), and this is what he has to say about the current state of electronic music.
Creative Loafing: You've been spinning for about 20 years now, right? Where do you think the "scene" is now compared to where it was when you first started?
Yes about 23 years now ... it’s definitely grown and evolved on many levels especially on the digital front. A lot more people are involved. Records have made way for downloads. The technology has enabled us to reach many people on a global scale. The electronic dance music scene is here to stay and it keeps on growing.
What was the one main incident/reason that you started spinning?
A love for hip-hop got me interested in it back in 1986-1987... but it was when I went over to a friend's house around that time frame and saw his set up and heard what he could do with the music that caught my ears and eyes. I was hooked, and he showed me the basic skills on how to do it. That guy was Mark Haney ... an old classmate of mine and friend till this day.
What was the first "big gig" you played?
It was at a teen club called "Off Limits" back in the early '90s when I was still in high school. We did a full on show. Live house music with singers, rappers, dancers and DJs.
Which night is more fun to run? Jack’s House or Paradise?
Jack's House opened the door ... Paradise has been a labor of love. And the next chapter awaits.
How have you been able to keep a house night afloat for so long?
Bringing in world-class talent to my parties and always exposing the next generation to our music. Also having a great team of people who work at the club involved from promoters to the bar staff to management and owners.
Which approach do you take? Give the people what they want, or give 'em what you think they need?
It’s a good balance of both. We all know the popular crowd-pleasers, but I always want to expose the people to new fresh music.
Name three records that never leave your side.
Jaydee "Plastic Dreams," Marshall Jefferson "Move Your Body," and Lil Louis "French Kiss."
What is the one record that makes you lose your shit when you hear it?
Funny question! You mean lose my mind? It’s a classic: MFSB "Love Is the Message."
Who's your favorite "non-house" DJ?
DJ Jazzy Jeff plays the classic hip-hop and soul like no other!
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