Los Angeles based electronic producer, Wes James aka Le Youth, returns to the Mile High City this weekend to headline Vinyl, as part The Hundred’s monthly party. The increasingly sought-after artist makes a special stop in Denver in support of his new single, “Dance With Me (featuring Dominique Young Unique)” released earlier this month. Recognized for his modern combination of 90’s house music and R&B, Le Youth is gearing up for a busy spring including a SXSW date with Alex Metric, Strange Talk and more.
303 Magazine caught up with Le Youth to ask him five questions before he takes the stage at Vinyl this weekend. Check out what he had to say about surviving touring, his recent BBC Radio 1 performance, and who he wants to work with next.
303 Magazine: You just played BBC Radio 1 with a live band. What does your live set with a full band include?
Le Youth: I thought my days playing with band members were over actually, which was quite a relief, but when I was asked to do this I couldn’t turn it down. Though, I’ve upgraded from rehearsing in my parent’s basement, practice was still long and strenuous. For the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge we played a mashup of “C O O L” and “Dance With Me,” and a cover of Sam Smith’s “Money On My Mind.”
You worked with Dominique Young Unique on “Dance With Me.” If you could choose another female artist – up-and-coming, current diva, or legendary artist of the past – who would it be?
I would love to work with a number of artists from the 90’s era, but working with Brandy would be great.
You tour quite a bit. What are your three tour survival tips?
1. For big time zone changes, sleep medication like Ambien allows me to sleep on flights and also adjust to new time zones quickly, especially if I’m flying coach.
2. Use the hotel gym.
3. Upgrade to first class.
You’ve played in Denver before. What’s your impression of Denver’s music scene?
I love the Denver scene. I met some great people last time I played. Looking forward to the next show.
Tell me something embarrassing about yourself.
I’m afraid to swim in the ocean.