If you're a fan of dance music in New York City or Miami, then you're well aware of DJ Boris. He may not have reached the pinnacle of the DJ world like
Tïesto,
Deadmau5 or
Paul van Dyk, but many would agree that his signature parties at clubs like
Pacha NYC and
Space Miami have easily topped those of the names previously mentioned, and that's due in part to the sound and vibe he creates through his music. This year he's been in the studio, hard at work on his latest release, Believe In The Music II, but now he's gearing up for a promo tour that'll make stops in the best dance music markets in the U.S., as well as outside of the country.
Clubplanet recently caught up with New York City's own DJ Boris and chatted about his latest release, how the role of the resident DJ has changed, and what club he could play for the rest of his life if given the choice.
Clubplanet: How has 2011 been for you thus far?
DJ Boris: It's been a great! And one of the most successful years to date. Due in large part to touring every weekend. As well as putting out some eye-popping and successful releases on some well established labels. And of course the new "Believe in the Music" CD.
Clubplanet: Your latest mix CD, "Believe In The Music II," features tracks from notables like John Acquaviva, Mark Knight, Funkagenda and Adam Beyer. What's your track selection process like?
DJ Boris: I wanted different types of tracks to have some diversity on the CD and make it feel like you're at one of my events. I usually play for many hours so I tend to play different types of music and I wanted to duplicate that in this mix. The "3 a.m." mix is more House-y, Groovy, Tribal. Where as the "5 a.m." mix is just straight banging, high-energy peak time Techno.
Clubplanet: In your opinion, how has the role of the "resident DJ" changed in the last 10 years?
DJ Boris: A great deal! Ten years ago you had many weekly residents, where as today you may have a monthly or quarterly resident. Kids today don't want to go hear the same DJ every week. Their are just too many talented DJs and too many different choices of DJs to listen to.
Clubplanet: You've played some of the biggest dance music markets in the world. Do you believe that the increasing popularity of the genre is just a trend, or is it here to stay?
DJ Boris: No, dance music is growing so rapidly, just look at some of the award shows, or TV commercials. I mean, when 50 Cent, Chris Brown, Puffy and some of the big hip-hop and R&B artists are using elements of electronic music, you know its not a trend.
Clubplanet: If there was one club you had to play for the rest of your life, which would it be and why?
DJ Boris: Tough question. I have played in some of best clubs in the world. I'm not sure I could play just one. I would go with my two favorite residencies;
Pacha NYC and
Space Miami. You can't beat those two.
Clubplanet: Who are some up and coming producers that everyone should stay tuned to?
DJ Boris: I would say Gary Beck, Carlo Lio, Alan Fitzpatrick and some of the more techno guys I'm really feeling these days.
Clubplanet: How would you rate New York City's dance music scene compared to other markets in the U.S.?
DJ Boris: NYC is home for me so I will always be biased and excited to play in my hometown. As far as the U.S., I think New York City and Miami would be the leaders of dance music. There is always a ton of great talent coming through these cities at some great venues that you can catch on a weekly basis.
Clubplanet: What's in store for the remainder of the year?
DJ Boris: Gearing up for the "Believe in the Music Tour" that will take me to many different cites like New York City, Miami, Tel Aviv, D.C., Tampa, Orlando, Boston, etc. As well as a slew of new releases on some great labels such as Toolroom, IVAV, Piccante, and Nervous.
