:: MIXMASTER MIKE AND THE BEASTIE BOYS ::

Mixmaster Mike, like many turntablists was inspired by “Grandmixer DST”, the DJ behind Herbie Hancock’s 80’s hit “Rokit”. He was fascinated by the sound of the scratch and how the turntables were being used as an instrument to create a melodic tune. “I was so hypnotised by the art that I just wanted to take things into my own hands.” That’s exactly what he did and the rest was history. Mike is the DJ for ‘The Beastie Boys’. “I don't think I'd do it for any other band besides the Beasties because I've been a long time fan of the Beasties Boys, and when that opportunity came it was like a blessing.” For Mike the breakthrough came when he met MC A ‘Adam Yauch’ at the Rock steady anniversary show in NY. “When he wasn’t home I would leave scratch messages on his answering machine which started the whole shit.” And it was definitely a perfect match with them both having mutual respect for each other. Coming from the old school the beasties would constantly highlight the DJ in all their shows and Mike would always perform a mind blowing solo set. “Big respect to those guys you know, they really appreciate the workings of what's going on and they provided me a great platform to do what I do and kinda preach the art and show the kids that don't know what the turntable is capable of doing.” Even though Mike has retired from Battling, he continually contributes a great deal to the progression of the turntablist scene and gives respect to all that plays a role in it from the past to the present. “In order to know where you're at you have to know where it started. Peace to Kool Herc, Grand wizard Theodore, and Flash. Man if it wasn't for Herc, we wouldn't be here. Look how far we’ve come. More ...
Mixmaster Mike will be performing with the Beastie Boys on Friday 28th January at The Hordern Pavilion.