It’s impossible to print all of the insightful information you get from an interview with DJ Mu$a, being grilled by Joshua Novak. You can see DJ Mu$a live this Saturday, May 15th at City Hall in 303 Magazine‘s Summer Music Festival. Check out more upcoming show dates for both artists following their extended interview. Here’s what didn’t make it to print:

DJ Mu$a

JN: How does the reality of being a musician compare to the fantasy?
M: It’s tougher and more work than people think, but all the fantasy stuff is true too.

JN: What do you think of the current state of the music industry?
M: It’s really changing and evolving a lot right now. You can’t really survive off of just selling your music anymore, you pretty much need to be a brand. I like the fact, though, that if you want to put something out on your own, you really can now.

JN: What’s your favorite vice?
M: Fun.

JN: What’s next for you?
M: Tons of events and parties through the end of summer, and a bunch of new music release and remixes.

JN: Do you have a favorite [Michael Jackson] song?
M: “Heartbreak Hotel,” hands down.

JN: How do you feel about pirating music?
M: I do it, everyone does, really, I know a lot of artists aren’t down with it, but it’s gonna happen regardless now. Figure out a better way to reach your audience, because if they love your shit, they are gonna just go get it, and in a way, that’s a good thing.

Joshua Novak

 

JN: For me, music evokes very strong images and places and seasons and eras when I am writing. It’s as if I am writing a soundtrack for the visuals in my brain. Do you have a similar experience with your music?
M: Sounds familiar. I think all art starts with an image or feeling in your brain. The trick is to be able to get it out into the real world without having it censored or filtered too much.

JN: If you didn’t do things with music, where would your interests lie in terms of a passion?
M: I really love visual art. I would love to be able to paint.

JN: Do you remember your first gig?
M: Playing at halftime and in between time-outs at my dad’s summer basketball league. He paid me twenty bucks a day.

JN: Since then, what have you changed, and what have you always done the same?
M: Man, I changed a lot. I’m good now, for starters. But, even with all the new technology and digital stuff out there, I’ve never let go of using turntables.