Josh Wink Interview

June 6, 2006 10:59 AM
by Dan Vidal [email]

For over a decade now, some of the most innovative sounds in dance music have been coming from Philadelphia resident Josh Wink. In addition to heading up his label, Ovum Records, home of such artists as David Alvarado, D'Julz, Loco Dice, and Rulers of the Deep, Josh maintains a busy schedule of production and DJ gigs. Despite this, he found the time to sit down and answer a few questions for us here at CJ.

CJ: Sometimes various pundits try to describe you as a techno or house DJ/producer, but like a lot of people out there playing out and producing, it seems that you probably aren't able to be categorized. Would you agree with that?

JW: It’s nice to be able to blur the line between the various types of electronic music. I mean, it’s great to make a record that Tenaglia, Morillo & Digweed will play and at the same time, Jeff Mills, Carl Cox and Richie Hawtin are playing the same track! But, I just do what I do.

You've been doing this for awhile, where and when did you get started?

JW:13 yrs old. Wanted to be a radio dj. Became an apprentice to a mobile dj company. Weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, sweet 16’s. When I was 15 bought the equipment. Learned how to ‘beat mix’. Then at 16 I did school parties/house parties. At 18 I was a bar back at nightclubs to be able to get in. At 19 I got a fill in job at a club. Met King Britt. Started making music from ideas I was having from DJing. Put out 1st record the same year. Been producing ever since.

CJ:Back then, DJing and producing electronic music wasn't as quite as prevalent as it is today. Today some are terming the profession of DJing and producing electronic music as a commodity, i.e. there's a DJ/producer on every street corner, would you agree or disagree with that?

JW:Yes, it’s popular. But, not as busy as it was years ago. It’s harder to ‘break in’ now…

CJ: Over the years, how have your production methods changed?

JW:I try and keep the same ‘raw’ ideas. I keep changing my production methods. Don’t always use the same gear. Don’t always use a computer or software based equipment to produce music. I always try and incorporate the ‘older gear’ with the newer things. So much changes in computers and music, it’s difficult to stay on top of everything…

CJ:On the same token, you were known for being one of the first to "break" software like Final Scratch to the world (along with Miami-based producer Stryke), but in recent times you on occasion DJ in a more traditional fashion, any reason for this?

JW: I use ‘tools’ as I see fit. I try and I decide if it’s going to work or not. So, I try and keep things fresh, instead of getting stuck in the same rut. Once again, I like using the “old’ and the “new’ together.

CJ: When you play out, what would you say is your ideal environment to play out in?

JW: I enjoy smaller intimate settings the best. I know at times, this isn’t always what takes place. But, I rather be ‘in’ the crowd, rather than ‘overlooking” the crowd.

CJ:Some 'experts' in the field of nightlife are saying that the electronic music scene is taking a hit these days, with labels folding and clubs closing or changing format. What say you? Is 'the scene' done for?

JW: Things always change. It is difficult in the USA. As most clubs/bars cater to bottle service and hip-hop R&B. There are little clubs that still keep their integrity. And I’ll be there to support it. It’s a difficult time with music and file stealing. I hope that people are being more responsible and legally downloading music.

CJ:Outside of the electronic music scene, who would you like to work with?

JW: Sea & Cake, Neptunes, Billy Mann, Earth Wind & Fire.

CJ: Has any of your work made it into popular culture yet, for example, in a commercial or other such placement?

JW: Yes, movies and various commercials (only overseas).

CJ: Ten years down the line, where do you see yourself progressing as an artist?

JW: 10 years ago I was asked the same question. I see myself still making music, releasing music on Ovum, Traveling, yet staying home more and producing more bands. 10 years ago I said I’d still be traveling, making music, have a record label and Djing. And I’m doing it!

CJ:You've been to Miami a few times before, what was your most memorable gig down here?

JW: Always the WMC Ovum parties. Always unique and special. 10 years running!

CJ: Thanks for taking the time out to chat, Josh.

Josh puts in an appearance at Mansion on this Sunday, June 11th. Get your presale tickets over at Wantickets.com!