[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”21581″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]
Known for playing 12-hour marathon sets of slick, pumping house music, DJ Boris was born in St. Petersburg, Russia, but was raised in the U.S., having moved to the States at the age of three.
By the time he hit the big time by holding parties at the Roxy and landing a residency at the Limelight, he was also remixing the likes of Janet Jackson (“All I Want”), Anastacia (“Left Outside Alone”), and Jewel (“Stand”). His mix of Pink’s “Get the Party Started” took the track to the top of the dance chart, and soon flying down to Miami’s famed Crobar to play in front of huge crowds became a regular occurrence.
We had the pleasure to chat with Boris next.
[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”21582″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]
Hi BORIS please tell us about you?
Hello I’m Boris, I’ve been playing music for over 20 years, was born in Russia, grew up in NYC and still reside here, I’m also a part time resident of Miami. I’ve held residencies at almost every major nightclub in NYC over the past 2 decades, and love what I do.
When and why did you start playing?
I started playing music in the clubs in 1992. I’ve always loved music whether it be House, Disco, Hip-hop, Rock etc….and was always fascinated with how a DJ can control a room, and make people dance and make them feel…good or bad.
Who is your music influence?
I’ve had many while growing up, but the biggest was Junior Vasquez.
What do you usually start with, when preparing a set?
Usually ill go through all the new music, then assemble a playlist for the night together. Then i’ll just go through past playlists to see if there is something I wanna play…that’s my whole process!
Explain your sound in 3 words?
Dark. Driving. Beats
Favorite DJ’s?
Their are many great and talented DJs, I would say you can never go wrong with Carl Cox.
Describe me your feelings when you play music?
I always get lost in the music (how cliché lol) but it’s so true. I picture being on the dance floor, being in the crowd, being by or behind the bar, etc.. and vision what the people would be doing, if they would like a specific track, how it sounds on the dance floor. It’s always you and the beats. It’s a feeling that only a DJ can describe.
The best and worst thing of your job?
The Best: The satisfaction of making a crowd dance and have a great time to your music…
Worst: Sitting on long flights to gigs
Now tell us about which events you will be part of during Miami Music Week?
This year we are doing 3 events! We were asked to be part of the 25th anniversary of Nervous records with a legendary line-up of guys that include: Louie Vega, Roger S, Oscar G, & Josh Wink to name a few. Then on Saturday March 19th, we have our legendary Get Wet pool party at the Surfcomber, in its 12th year. This year the line-up includes Carlo Lio, Nathan Barato, The Junkies, and Jean Pierre. To close out MMW, we’ll be hosting our Transmit Showcase at Heart nightclub that Saturday night. We have a massive lineup that includes Christian Smith, Ramiro Lopez, Richie Santana, Harry Romero, Joeski, Saeed & Koutarou.
Now tell us about your label “Transmit”?
Transmit is a label we started 3 years ago, and has quickly risen, and has gotten major support from some of the biggest jocks in the world. When you define “Transmit” the meaning is sending signals and and relay sounds. That’s what we try to do with the music, make sure everyone is aware of the music we put out. I started the label so we can release quality proper underground music in the USA – something that’s lacking in America. Thankfully, many people have embraced it across the globe.
And your “Transmissions” podcasts?
It’s our weekly radio show featuring some of the biggest underground DJ/Producers around the globe. The show has exploded and is now syndicated in over 70 countries around the world.
If you could choose one artist to work with in the future, who would it be and why?
I’ll give u 2! I’ve always been a big fan of Prince and Alice Keys and their music. I know it’s not exactly what I do, but I have the most admiration for those types of artists and their music. So, I would love to work with them.
Three things you can’t live without?
My computer with all my music, my TV, and my Wife!
Any loves, other then music?
Sports! I’ve always played sports growing up as a kid in many different levels. I still do, but it’s relegated to only playing Softball as I got a bit older lol…
Best advice ever given?
Follow your dreams to success, never stay content, and never let anyone tell you NO!
Where do you live currently?
I go back and fourth from NYC and Miami.
What’s the best event you’ve played at?
In my 20 plus years, I’ve had so many amazing events! It’s really hard to pick one. But, since we are approaching MMW, I would say our Get Wet pool party. We have had some unbelievable events there.
What do you do in your spare time?
I’m a big sports guy, so I like watching and catching games – Football ( American) Baseball, Basketball, Hockey…
Any exiting news you want to share with us?
Excited for our 3 events we have coming during MMW, gearing up some great gigs in some fun cities like NY, Miami, Barcelona, El Paso, Chicago, Dallas, to name a few. I have some amazing releases coming out on Transmit including some of my own. I’m also of course working on a bunch of originals for other major labels. So, we are definitely keeping busy!
How important is Social Media for you?
Very important! It’s how you stay relevant in today’s game. It’s a huge part of today’s marketing. With a click of a button thousands of people will know your next gig pr release date. Or just by putting up a picture from your past gig! People love that…It’s a major part of today’s success.
I always tell guys, just go on social media and speak about anything, even about stuff that has nothing to do with music. Talk about Sports, your day, or anything that doesn’t have much to do with music. Just let people know you exist, and that’s how you will continue to stay relevant.
Where we can follow you?
IG-DJBORISNYC
djboris.com
soundcloud.com/djborisnyc
twitter.com/djborisnyc
facebook.com/boris.djboris
facebook.com/believeinboris
Quote: Believe
Movie: The Natural
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]