ROAD PODCAST (Reflections Of A DJ)

Episode 362: RASHAD SMITH (Pt.1): The Mystery Beatmaker for Rakim, Uptown Records & Busta Rhymes This week on @RoadPodcast, the crew sits down for Part 1 of an epic two-part conversation with legendary producer @Rashad_Ringo_Smith — the mastermind behind tracks for @TheNotoriousBIG, @BustaRhymes, @JayZ, @Beyonce, @TheGodRakim, and more. You may not know his name, but you definitely know his sound. Rashad kicks things off by reflecting on his early days as a DJ, his childhood nicknames, and the powerful influence his mother had on his musical journey (00:11). He shares his deep love for jazz and reveals how he flipped the same sample two different ways for Busta Rhymes’ “Woo Hah” and its remix featuring @OlDirtyBastardLegacy (08:55). He breaks down the art of crate digging with iconic producers, the origins of the “pause tape,” and how it became the foundation for early production before DAWs (18:01). Rashad dives deep into the making of “Woo Hah,” seeing the Hype Williams-directed video for the first time, and Spike Lee’s unexpected interest in using the track for Clockers (38:01). From crafting “Don’t Sweat the Technique” to the murky politics of credit in the industry (58:10), Rashad opens up about why he calls himself “The Muted Drum” — a nod to his role as one of the most “unknown, known” producers in hip-hop (1:11:04). He also shares stories from his time at Uptown Records, working with a young @Diddy, and the moment he invented the producer tag (1:31:01), before diving into the rise of Bad Boy Records and the complicated dynamics behind the scenes (1:55:01). The episode wraps with Rashad reflecting on the making of the classic Notorious B.I.G. track “One More Chance” (2:10:33). Don’t miss Part 2, where Rashad speaks on more of his iconic tracks and tells unforgettable stories. This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 361: JASON JANI "The Wedding DJ Who Built a Private Event Powerhouse" This week on @RoadPodcast, the crew chops it up with @JasonJani — DJ, entrepreneur, and founder of @SCEEventGroup — as he shares his journey from New Jersey club nights to redefining private events. Jason recalls how he got his start in 1995, spinning at local spots like Deco Lounge and DJing on the Shore (2:30, 14:30). He talks about learning from setbacks (24:53) and how skills from corporate America helped shape his DJ business (25:48, 27:55). He explains how he broke the mold of the “cheesy wedding DJ” by bringing a nightclub mindset to private events (28:14), using YouTube to market himself (33:20), and building performances that spoke for themselves (35:34). From being recruited for the Watch The Throne tour to getting business advice from Virgil Abloh, Jason shares wild stories from the celebrity circuit and tour life with Ariana Grande (53:25–1:04:03). He breaks down SCE’s revenue model and creative team culture (1:17:30), gives props to @NickSpinelli for going viral (1:25:00), and opens up about leading a business through serious financial challenges and the pandemic (1:45:30–2:12:58). The episode wraps with Jason’s thoughts on DJs limiting themselves and why SCE launched its conference to push the private event scene forward (2:16:44). Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 360: BOBBITO GARCIA "B-Ball, Hip-Hop & Sneakers — Where the Love Still Lives?" This week on @RoadPodcast, the crew sits down with the legendary @KoolBobbLove a.k.a. Bobbito Garcia — DJ, author, and cultural icon. At 00:55, Bobbito breaks down the inspiration behind his new book “Bobbito’s Book of B-Ball Bong Bong!”, touching on caregiving, basketball, and his writing process. He and @DJcrooked reminisce about growing up in the same building (11:45), and at (18:45), he shares his thoughts on Rap vs. Hip-Hop, giving today’s scene a “under 5” rating. At (22:55), he reflects on his lifelong love for Hip-Hop, sneakers, basketball, and DJing. He opens up about stepping back from performing live (37:55) and honors his father’s legacy and roots in Puerto Rican pro basketball (49:01). Crooked reflects on Bobbito always staying ahead of the curve (57:01) before Bobbito closes with the Road Podcast 10 at 1:05:01. This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 359: BRAD LEBEAU "From the Early Days of Disco to a Record Promo Dynasty" This week on @RoadPodcast, the crew sits down with legendary music marketer, DJ, and founder of @promotion1983, Brad LeBeau, for an unfiltered conversation on the evolution of dance music, the hustle behind hit records, and the personal cost of chasing legacy in the industry. With his company “PRO MOTION” celebrating 42 years at the forefront of record promotion, Brad reflects on the moments that defined his journey. Brad opens up about his early DJ days, sharing how his father’s advice shaped his outlook (4:42), and how substance use became a short-lived fix for performance anxiety (08:33). He reflects on his time at Discoteca magazine and witnessing the birth of disco in America (21:01), before diving into his first major solo promotion: @Afrika_Bambaataa_Official and Soulsonic Force’s “Planet Rock” (23:01). He breaks down his philosophy on record promotion, working with @DianaRoss in 2017 (49:11), and his brief but dramatic collaboration with @LouieVega on an official Diana Ross remix—and their eventual falling out (1:13:34). Brad shares his thoughts on streaming vs. selling singles (1:34:01), the devaluation of music through price drops, theft, and convenience (1:45:15), and his continued love for the craft despite industry changes. He also recounts working with Gloria Estefan and the little-known backstory of Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” (2:13:01). The episode wraps with a deep dive into DJ edit culture, the economics of remixes, and the growing disconnect between record labels and working DJs (2:23:01). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

This week on @RoadPodcast, the crew chops it up with UK DJ and producer @snipsmusic, founder of London’s legendary “Living Proof” party. Snips breaks down how he got his name (01:41), his early love for house music, and the influence of UK genres like Lovers Rock, Jungle, and Drum & Bass. He shares wild stories from the London scene — including the time they accidentally booked a fake MF DOOM — and reflects on the rise and fall of “Living Proof” (12:30). The crew delves into the evolution of UK hip-hop, the legacy of @timwestwoodtv, and iconic UK shows featuring @jayz and @bustarhymes (24:10). Snips also discusses the beauty of vinyl culture (34:01) and the politics of equipment snobbery — from USB sticks to Serato (52:19). Things heat up during a fiery debate on NY hip-hop elitism, @souljaboy, and the future of DJ tech (1:19:30). Later, Snips critiques NYC’s current house scene, the optics of “diversity” in nightlife, and why he focused on building a community in Brooklyn (1:31:04). The episode wraps with sharp takes on @50cent, @jarule, the divide between mainstream and underground rap, and one last rant about his Twitter beef with @Nelly (2:03:10). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 357: CLUB 1BD "The Viral Apartment Party That Took Over Your Feed" This week, we’re joined by @ItsDavidTheDJ and @ArtyFurtado—the creator and curator behind the viral sensation @Club1BD. We kick things off with the origin story of Club 1BD and how it all began with a breakout viral moment (00:55). David shares his journey from wedding DJ to internet phenomenon, and how a chance meeting with Arty at NYU sparked their creative partnership (12:01). They speak on challenges of copyright and how it shapes monetization strategies (22:01), followed by a discussion about the criticism surrounding crowd reactions (40:50). They open up about collaborating with guest DJs, expanding the party beyond NYC, and the distinct visual editing style of @BestOfVoguee—all while honoring the deep influence of Black and Queer culture (48:01). At (1:11:01), we talk about why a great mix alone isn’t enough in today’s landscape—you need standout videography to cut through the noise. The crew reflects their mission to spotlight women DJs while challenging the stigma around using controllers in DJ culture (1:30:01). Lastly, Arty sharing insights on his company, @FurtadoGlobal, and how it's pushing the boundaries of event innovation in NYC and beyond (1:39:30). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 356: SCOOP DEVILLE "Crafting Classics for Kendrick Lamar, Dr. Dre, & Snoop" In this week’s episode of @Roadpodcast, we sit down with legendary producer, DJ, and rapper @scoopdeville, who has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including @kendricklamar, @drdre, @snoopdogg, @bustarhymes, and @fatjoe. The crew kicks things off with Scoop’s early ties to Las Vegas meeting @eddiemaclv, sharing stories of hustling CDs as a teen for his father Kid Frost (01:58). Scoop opens up about growing up around musical royalty like @eazyeofficial, @djtonyg, and @rogertroutmanofficial (06:10). He reveals behind-the-scenes moments from working with @drdre, including an unreleased version of "The Recipe" featuring @damianmarley (20:01). Scoop also talks about how club reactions help him decide what tracks to sample in his productions (46:18). Later, he dives into his experience creating K-Pop with @uarmyhope of @bts.bighitofficial and his time spent in Asia (53:24). He breaks down how "Calm Down" came together with @bustarhymes and @eminem (1:13:01), and finally, he shares how his childhood musical inspirations led to the creation of the iconic "Poetic Justice" (1:24:10). Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 355: INDO WAREHOUSE “Bringing South Asia To Coachella, and Creating A New Genre ‘IndoHouse’” In this episode, DJ Crooked sits down with @Indo.Warehouse founders @KunalMerchant and @KahaniMusic to talk about the rise of Indo-House — a genre fusing South Asian musical heritage with house and dance music. What started as a passion project has grown into a global movement, with Indo Warehouse delivering immersive live shows at iconic venues like @Coachella and @BrooklynMirage, and soon, the @F1 Grand Prix in Singapore. Kahani and Kunal share their paths into music (01:15), the moment their creative partnership began (20:43), and how they’ve navigated the tension between cultural authenticity and mainstream appeal (33:10). They discuss building the Indo Warehouse brand while juggling day jobs (46:01), nurturing their audience’s understanding of the genre (1:00:31), and signing with @UnitedTalent to expand their global reach (1:16:20). We also reflect on their game-changing Coachella performance (1:46:20) and close with a conversation about Indo-House’s broader cultural impact — from music to fashion and beyond (1:50:01). Be sure to stay tuned to the R.O.A.D. Patreon for a special Indo-house edit pack curated by Indo Warehouse. This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 354: JAMES HYPE "EDM Beefs And Real DJing" This week on @RoadPodcast, the crew sits down with premier EDM DJ/Producer and one of England’s finest, @JamesHype. They discuss his @ZoukGroupLV residency (01:36) and break down the differences between U.S. and European dance music markets (03:35). James reflects on his DJ roots in England (09:45), shares his thoughts on spinning with @Serato vs. @RekordboxOfficial (20:30), and revisits his first breakout hit, “More Than Friends” (35:01). He dives into his marketing persona as the “Hulk Hogan of DJing” (49:13), talks about his Ibiza residency at @Hiibizaofficial (1:01:04), and vents his frustrations with @BoilerRoomTV and his recent feud with @Deadmau5 (1:16:15). The crew also unpacks how James trolled the @Hardwell meltdown at @Saga_Festival in Romania (1:25:01), and breaks down his production process behind “Don’t Wake Me Up” (1:35:01). Finally, they deep-dive into the three-year journey behind his mega-hit “Ferrari” (1:44:32), his upcoming "SYNC Show," and how he preps for late-night marathon sets at @SpaceMiami (1:49:01). Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX

Episode 353: THE CAPTAINS OF INDUSTRY “The ‘Club Yacht Rock’ Mixshow” On this week’s episode of the @RoadPodcast, the crew is joined by @TheCapts to discuss their new radio show on @SiriusXM’s Yacht Rock channel (1:07). They dive into why they chose Yacht Rock, citing its unique vibe and @Questlove’s take on it as “the best sitting down dancing music” (10:05), and introduce a star-studded guest DJ lineup including @DJAngieVee, @DJExcel, @Fashen, @DJGoldfingerNYC, @Monalisa7872, @DJJazzyJeff, @MyFavoriteDJ @IAmMarkRonson, @DJRobLV, @DJRizNYC, @MrSonnyJames, @StevenHartkaMusic, and @ZTrip (13:50). They break down their top Yacht Rock tracks (19:40)and discuss the evolution from Season 1 to Season 2 of their show (31:01).. The episode also features a candid discussion on the relevance of DJ agencies today (1:07:20), the emergence of “Detroit-style” LA (1:15:10) and exclusive membership clubs (1:24:50). This episode is sponsored by @SoundCollectiveNYC, an industry-leading music school, musical space and community located in downtown Manhattan for aspiring DJ’s, Producers, Musicians and more. Take private Ableton lessons, practice DJ routines, experiment with different audio equipment and reserve studio spaces for just the day, maybe a week or sign up for their monthly membership. Check www.soundcollective.com for more info and try their Online Classes free for a month by entering the code “ROAD”. If you’re in the New York area, visit them at 28 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 and tell them the Road Podcast sent you!! Try Beatsource for free: https://btsrc.dj/4jCkT1p Join DJcity for only $10: https://bit.ly/3EeCjAX