A DJ's Journey

Deckard

After 25 years behind the decks, I've learned that every DJ has a unique path. I'm DJ Deckard, and I'm launching 'A DJ's Journey' - a podcast that explores the stories behind the music with the legends who shaped our scene. Where every beat tells a story.

Episodes

  1. A DJ's Journey Ep. 12 Sporty-O | Hosted by Deckard

    07/25/2025

    A DJ's Journey Ep. 12 Sporty-O | Hosted by Deckard

    A DJ’s Journey Ep. 12 drops now — featuring the legendary Sporty-O (@sportyowingman), the international wingman himself. From hustling mixtapes in Atlanta to performing on the main stage at EDC, Sporty-O’s story is one of hustle, reinvention, and relentless love for music. We talk about his early days as a hip-hop MC, his move to LA and writing music for TV, connecting with Keith MacKenzie through MySpace, and finding his true voice in electronic music. Now stepping into DJing while still producing and performing, Sporty-O reflects on evolution, staying creative, and how dance music opened up a global world of sound and possibility. 🎧 Available on all platforms🔊 Hosted by Deckard🔥 Full episode out now ShowNotes 00:00 The Musical Roots of Sporty-O 13:06 From Hip-Hop to Dance Music 24:37 Navigating the Music Business 31:48 Opportunities in Los Angeles 32:34 The Breakbeat Scene and Guest List's Impact 34:50 Transitioning from Hip Hop to Dance Music 38:02 The Moment of Realization in Dance Music 41:2 Unique Contributions to Electronic Music 44:26 Navigating Production in Dance Music 48:59 Collaborations and Touring with Keith 53:31 The Birth of Tequila Rageface 01:00:23 Returning to Atlanta and Building Community 01:02:32 The Journey of Music and Community 01:06:42 Evolving as an Artist in Dance Music 01:14:12 Navigating Challenges in DJing 01:22:45 The Future of Performance and Collaboration #ADJsJourney #SportyO #ElectronicMusic #PodcastInterview #DanceMusicScene #HipHopInfluence #DeckardPodcast

    1h 31m
  2. A DJ's Journey Ep. 11 Krafty Kuts

    07/09/2025

    A DJ's Journey Ep. 11 Krafty Kuts

    📣 New Episode Drop: Krafty Kuts on A DJ’s Journey From bingo caller and car boot crate-digger to breakbeat icon, Martin Reeves aka Krafty Kuts shares the wild ride that took him from the UK’s underground scene to world tours and legendary festival sets like Shambhala 🌍🎶 We talk: 🔊 His musical roots in ska, funk & electro 🎧 How a Beastie Boys record named him “Krafty Kuts” 📀 The moment Fatboy Slim walked into his shop 🔥 Touring with Rage Against the Machine, playing to 40k 🎤 Raising Future Flex & streaming during lockdown 💥 And why BREAKBEAT. IS. BACK. Full episode up July 9. You know what to do 🎙️ Follow Krafty Kuts: 🎚️ @KraftyKutsOfficial on Facebook 🎶 Bandcamp | Patreon 📷 Threads | TikTok 🎵 SoundCloud | Mixcloud 🟢 Spotify | Twitch 🎧 Beatport | X/Twitter 00:00 The Musical Roots of Crafty Cuts 03:07 The Evolution of DJing and Breakdancing 05:58 From Record Collector to DJ 09:08 The Journey into Production 12:20 The Rise of Crafty Cuts 15:13 Influences and Inspirations 18:08 The Impact of Live Performances 21:23 The Transition to Music Production 24:19 The Breakthrough Moment 27:10 The Whirlwind of Success 32:41 The Journey to Recognition 36:04 Building a Breakbeat Scene 39:51 Mastering the Craft of DJing 45:23 The Importance of Supportive Relationships 49:59 Navigating the Music Industry 56:07 The Evolution of Breakbeat and EDM 01:00:39 The Melting Pot of Genres 01:01:48 Heartfelt Moments in Music 01:02:55 Collaboration and DJing Dynamics 01:04:07 The Art of DJing and Musical Expression 01:07:01 Influences and Musical Journey 01:09:04 Family Legacy in DJing 01:11:02 The Festival Experience and Community 01:13:00 The Power of Streaming and Connection 01:17:51 Advice for Aspiring DJs 01:21:38 Upcoming Projects and Future Directions 01:25:27 Outro Music

    1h 26m
  3. Ep. 9 Jem “Stone” Panufnik (Finger Lickin’ Records) | Hosted by Deckard

    06/27/2025

    Ep. 9 Jem “Stone” Panufnik (Finger Lickin’ Records) | Hosted by Deckard

    A DJ’s Journey - Ep. 9 Jem "Stone" Panufnik In this conversation Deckard speaks with Jem Stone, co-founder of Finger Lickin' Records, who shares his unique journey through the music industry, from his unconventional musical upbringing to the birth of his record label. He discusses his early influences, the evolution of the breaks scene, and the importance of collaboration and community in music. Jem also reflects on the relationship between his art and music, his experiences as a DJ, and the changes he has witnessed in the music scene over the years. Jem reflects on his journey through the music industry, discussing his disillusionment with evolving music trends, the challenges of maintaining artistic identity, and the importance of collaboration. He shares insights into his involvement with producing, art and DJing, the revival of Finger Lickin' Records, and the creation of his new project, Kaptain Karnival, which combines music and storytelling. Throughout, he emphasizes the need for creativity and the joy of making art that resonates with personal experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gemstone05:57 First Musical Loves and Inspirations11:50 The Birth of Fingerlickin' Records18:11 The Evolution of Fingerlickin' and Its Roster24:12 The Big Beat Era and Its Impact29:30 The Journey of an Artist37:38 Art and Music: A Creative Synergy43:33 The Evolution of DJing48:39 The Shift in Musical Tastes59:17 Reflections on Music Production01:08:57 Reviving Finger Lickin' Records01:21:55 Creative Fuel and Aging GracefullyIG https://www.instagram.com/jem_stone_panufnik/ 🎨 Jem’s Gallery: ⁠https://jempanufnikart.com Jem Stone Art FB https://www.facebook.com/jempanufnikart/Jem Stone Music FB https://www.facebook.com/jemstonemusic/  🪩 The Legend of Kaptain Karnival: https://kaptainkarnival.com Kaptain Karnival FB https://www.facebook.com/kaptainkarnival/  Kaptain Karnival IG https://www.instagram.com/kaptainkarnival/ Finger Lickin’ Records   https://www.instagram.com/finger_lickin_records/ #ADJsJourney #JemPanufnik #FingerLickinRecords #Breakbeat #UKBreaks #FatboySlim #DJPodcast #funkybreaks #renniepilgrem #DJCulture #ElectronicMusic #kaptainkarnival

    1h 33m
  4. A DJ's Journey Hosted by Deckard Ep. 6 Lee Coombs

    05/22/2025

    A DJ's Journey Hosted by Deckard Ep. 6 Lee Coombs

    🎤 Interview Outline – Lee Coombs | Ep. 6 of A DJ’s Journey The conversation explores the Lee Coombs journey through music, from early childhood memories and influences to the evolution of DJing and music production. Lee highlights the significance of sampling, the importance of building relationships within the music industry, and the impact of live performances on the speaker's career. The discussion also touches on the Lee's experiences with record labels, remixes, and the lasting legacy of electronic music. The discussion also touches on the impact of platforms like Bandcamp and the challenges of navigating the music business, including royalties and independent releases. Lee Coombs Links BandCamp Facebook Beatport Chapters 00:00 Musical Beginnings: A Journey Through Childhood Memories 06:13 The Rise of DJing: From Passion to Profession 12:52 The Evolution of Music Production: Early Releases and Breakthroughs 20:58 Sampling and Sound: Crafting Unique Musical Identities 27:20 Label Relationships: Building a Career in Music 34:40 Remixes and Recognition: Expanding Musical Horizons 36:06 Exploring Musical Influences and Collaborations 39:04 The Evolution of Sound and Career Milestones 43:40 Collaborations and the Rise of New Labels 46:57 Transitioning to Film Scoring and Sync Licensing 51:52 Navigating the Music Business and Royalties 54:46 Teaching and Mentoring the Next Generation 01:00:10 The Impact of Bandcamp and Independent Releases 01:03:30 Reflections on Legacy and Future Aspirations #ADJsLife #DJLife #AcidHouse #ElectronicMusic #Sampling #RecordLabels #Remixes #MusicHistory #UKMusicScene #MusicProduction #DJing #Collaborations #FilmScoring #Bandcamp #MusicBusiness #Teaching #SoundEvolution #Legacy

    1h 6m
  5. A DJ's Journey Ep3 Kelly Reverb

    04/23/2025

    A DJ's Journey Ep3 Kelly Reverb

    In this engaging conversation, Kelly Reverb shares his extensive journey through the music industry, from his early influences in a musical household to becoming a prominent DJ and producer. He discusses the evolution of his career, the founding of Lone Star Records, and the importance of community in music. Kelly reflects on the challenges and triumphs he faced while navigating the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, emphasizing the blend of genres that defines his work. In this conversation, Kelly Reverb discusses the challenges and expectations faced by DJs in the music industry, particularly the struggle between artistic freedom and audience expectations. He reflects on the impact of digital music formats like MP3s on the industry, his personal journey with alcoholism, and the importance of mental health within the DJ community. Kelly shares insights on his recovery journey, the creation of his podcast, and his aspirations for the future in music and podcasting, emphasizing the importance of passion and authenticity in pursuing one's dreams. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kelly Reverb 01:43 Musical Roots and Influences 04:40 The Journey to DJing 07:48 First Gigs and Open Format 10:45 Transitioning to Professional DJing 12:46 The Impact of Record Stores 15:43 The Evolution of Music Tastes 18:42 The Role of Influential DJs 21:44 The Shift to Production 23:44 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 24:12 The Rise of Kelly Reverb29:31Navigating the Dallas Music Scene 31:00 First Steps in Music Production 31:47 Building a Name and Community 35:31 The Breakthrough with Here We Go 37:11 The Formation of Lone Star Records 44:47 The Challenges of Marketing and Distribution 47:53 The Evolution of Fine Ladies Only 50:26 Navigating DJ Expectations and Artistic Freedom 52:36 The Blessing and Curse of Iconic Tracks 55:16 The Balance Between Personal Style and Audience Expectations 56:47 The Impact of MP3s on the Music Industry 58:47 Struggles with Alcoholism and the DJ Lifestyle 01:01:38 Recovery and Rediscovering Passion for Music 01:14:52 The Journey of Sobriety and Recovery 01:17:47 Mental Health and Community Support 01:19:55 Productivity and Clarity Post-Sobriety 01:21:38 The Evolution of Podcasting and Music 01:24:53 Reconnecting with Old Friends and Collaborations 01:28:14 Building a Brand in the Music Industry 01:31:33 The Role of Digital Distribution in Music 01:34:14 Future Aspirations in Music and Podcasting #KellyReverb #ADJsJourney #MusicPodcast #Breakbeat #HouseMusic #SoberDJ #ElectronicMusicScene #DJStories #PodcastInterview #LoneStarRecords #DJLife #DJCulture

    1h 35m
  6. A DJ's Journey Hosted by Deckard - Ep2 Wes Smith

    04/09/2025

    A DJ's Journey Hosted by Deckard - Ep2 Wes Smith

    DJ Deckard and Wes Smith explore the intricate journey of becoming a DJ, delving into their musical roots, early influences, and the evolution of the electronic music scene. They discuss the impact of raves, the challenges of navigating the music industry, and the importance of community and networking in shaping their careers. The dialogue highlights the unique paths each DJ takes, the significance of live performances, and the ongoing evolution of music production techniques. In this engaging conversation, Deckard and Wes Smith explore their journeys in the music industry, focusing on the evolution of DJing, the impact of technology like Ableton Live, and the importance of understanding one's worth in the business. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences in New York, the challenges of releasing music, and the significance of networking. The discussion also touches on unique experiences at events like Burning Man and the business side of music, including licensing and royalties. Thank you to our sponsor and friends at Asiento in San Francisco. A local woman owned neighborhood bar with fresh cocktails & delicious shareable bites. Deckard recommends the Madam burger. Hosts DJs & bands. Chapters 00:00 The DJ's Journey Begins 01:07 Musical Roots and Influences 04:11 Discovering the DJ Culture 09:42 The Evolution of Breaks and Rave 14:59 First Rave Experience and Its Impact 20:18 Networking and Building a DJ Identity 28:33 The Evolution of DJing and Influences 30:38 Balancing DJing with Education and Career 33:19 The Buzz DC Experience and Networking in Music 36:45 Learning the Craft: From DJing to Producing 41:20 Building Community and Collaborations in DC 44:04 Transitioning to New York: Challenges and Opportunities 49:46 Finding Worth: The Value of Music and Engineering 53:38 Navigating the Music Industry: Lessons Learned 01:02:52 The Journey of a DJ: From College to Professional 01:04:38 The New York Experience: A DJ's Perspective 01:07:03 Cultural Exchange: DJing in India 01:12:05 The Evolution of Music Revenue: Vinyl to Video Games 01:16:22 Memorable Experiences: DJing at Burning Man 01:21:50 Lessons Learned: DJ Fails and Growth 01:31:16 Emerging Talent: Shoutouts and Inspirations

    1h 32m
5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

After 25 years behind the decks, I've learned that every DJ has a unique path. I'm DJ Deckard, and I'm launching 'A DJ's Journey' - a podcast that explores the stories behind the music with the legends who shaped our scene. Where every beat tells a story.