10 Questions with DJ Vanni
DJ Vanni
-written by Nat Richmond
How were you first introduced to DJing?
I have always been involved with music and have been an all around fan of music since a kid. I stepped away from being an artist and began my journey in the DJ world under the guidance of my mentor DJ Nitro. I watched him spin for years and knew it was the lane I wanted to be in.
Are there any specific DJs that inspired you the most?
DJ Nitro(my mentor), DJ Grandmaster Flash, Grand Wizard, Kool Herc, DJ Premier, DJ Screw, DJ Khaled, Kid Kapri, Jam Master J, Red Alert, Kay Slay, Clark Kent, Qbert
What goes into the decision making process of what you choose to play?
Its all about reading the crowd. Crowd control with music selection. There is an art to it. Far more complex then just pressing play.
What are your biggest goals in the Music Industry?
Im currently in the beginning stages of releasing a DJ Album. The album will be a collaboration of independent artists and producers.
As a DJ, are you ever nervous before a set?
Always! lol Every event is your business card. Folks might not remember ever detail but they will always remember the music.
How do you feel like you impact the Music culture here in Erie?
Along side with my good friends and brothers Rastik and Shaun Benjamin, we provided a soundtrack to the cities nightlife for a reign of 5 years.
Are there any other musical skills that you feel helps your career?
Promotion! Promotion is everything. Always has been, always will be.
How do you overcome creative blockages?
Study and watch other DJs sets and listen to what vibe is popular in bigger city nightclubs and bring that here.
Do you believe that traditional Vinyl sets could ever become popular again? Why or Why Not?
Maybe. The level of dedication to master that skill would need to be very high. Im not so sure that would be a thing. It would be such a dope vibe if it did.
