related items
Ted The Dillinger has been spinning in the Hudson Valley and just about everywhere else for the past two decades. The 34-year-old Queens native chatted with Metromix about his gigs at Torches on the Hudson and what he thinks of Miley Cirus.
Which Hudson Valley bars and clubs do you go to in your off time?
Torches, that is it. There's nothing that can compete.
What made you want to become a DJ?
My cousin was a DJ in the early 80s. That gave me the influence to be as great as he was.
Do you have any other jobs aside from DJing?
No, fulltime DJ, 24/7
Is there a frequently requested song that you absolutely cannot stand?
"I Know You Want Me." It's a great song, just a little over requested.
What’s the funniest transition you’ve made from one song to another? For example, have you done anything like Britney Spears into Metallica?
I would say I went from the Black Eye Peas into a mash with The Adams Family.
What’s the strangest song request you ever received?
Milli Vanilli, "Girl You Know It's True."
Do you use headphones when you work? Why or why not?
Funny you ask. I actually use Aerial7 headphones. How else would I preview my mixes before I introduce them to the crowd?
If you had to listen to one band/artist for the rest of your life, who would it be?
The Doors. Jim Morrison, he was a poet in so many ways and his music has so much depth that each time you listen to his words and feel what he was saying, it brings new meaning to the art of writing.
What’s your favorite memory from a gig you DJed?
Playing for royalty, the King of Morrocco at his castle in Rahbat.
Why is it cooler to have a DJ than, say, a digital jukebox?
A live talent can feel out the crowd and feed off their energy.
Who’s the most overrated musical act out there today?
Miley Cyrus
If there were a celebrity for whom you could work as a DJ, who would it be?
Eminem. He's one of the best lyricists of all time and he's very creative and comical in his music. It's a way to show laughter through entertainment.
What’s the best way to request a song?
Don't.
What are your thoughts on Lady GaGa?
Amazing. Very talented.
Do people ever hand you money when they request a song? And does that work?
Yes many times, and it works as long as it falls in a category that applies to the night or event, not something out of left field.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I'm an extremely sensitive performer. I cannot have any distractions or negativity around me when I play.
Have you ever played “I’m On A Boat” from “Saturday Night Live” in your set list?
Yes, in my radio mixshow.
What are your feelings on glow sticks?
Stupid!
What’s the best dance anthem of all time?
So many to choose, but I would say Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean."
Why are you the best DJ in the Hudson Valley?
I've been through two decades of the club scene and I've played everywhere. My experience alone can never be duplicated. Therefore I am the best for my time.
