How did you get into DJing? Have you always been interested in music?
I grew up playing piano, which was my first introduction to music and DJing, and I always kind of had a passion for music. In high school, I actually had a small little DJ board, and I would sit in my room making mashups. I would watch YouTube videos to figure out how to use the technology, so there was a lot of trial and error. I played a little in college and after I graduated, for about a year I played mostly with my friends in my apartment. Then I had one friend who runs a hospitality business who asked me if I wanted to play an event. That was kind of my first time playing at an actual club, in 2020.
You balance both working in finance and DJing. How have those two worlds influenced each other?
I think what’s helped me a lot in my DJ career is having a background in investment banking and finance, because as much as being a DJ is all about creativity and passion for music, you’re essentially your own business. If you can approach it that way and have experience dealing with business owners and an understanding of the finances behind your own business, that’s ultimately important. If you wanna grow as a DJ, you inevitably have to look at yourself like your own little sole proprietorship.
What was your family’s reaction to pursuing DJing as more than just a hobby?
I don’t know if they even understand fully what goes on. Like, for example, this past weekend we had two Knicks players with us while I was playing. I think when I started, it was something that I was passionate about and from their perspective, it was an additional income source for me to play on the weekend, so I think any parent is going to be supportive of that. But when I tell them that I go to sleep at maybe four, five, six in the morning, they’re a little less supportive about stuff like that.
What’s your process when making a set list?
I usually don’t create set lists. I play and listen to so much music, so I try and read the crowd because every crowd is different. What makes a great night and a good DJ is their ability to read the room. Song selection is important, too. I think it’s a lot of pacing and energy management because you want to build up the room as the night goes on. So that’s how I’ve always played. In addition, I also play pretty long sets, so I find it impossible trying to plan four to five hour sets.
What’s been the biggest song of the summer so far?
This summer, I have to say it’s “Talk to You,” by ANOTR. I think they did such a good job promoting that song, and everybody knows the introductory chords. The words are great, and it’s just a nice melody, so I think it’s a perfect song for summer.
Is there a difference between a Hamptons crowd and a New York City crowd?
It’s not so much Montauk versus the city. I’d say it’s more like venue to venue. Like, your Surf Lodge crowd is definitely going to be different than your Bounce crowd. And your Common Ground crowd is like a nice blend between the two. I think it depends on the venue you’re going to.
What’s your favorite Hamptons venue to play at?
I think my favorite part of DJing is not necessarily about one particular venue. Regardless of where I play and what I’m playing that night, if somebody or multiple people come up to me after a set and say they had a great time, then for the short time after that, that was probably my favorite set and my favorite venue.
When you’re not in the DJ booth, where can we find you in the Hamptons?
I try and stop at Duryea’s at least once or twice a summer. Inlet Seafood is also a great spot, and Bird on the Roof is good for brunch. Harvest on Fort Pond is probably my No. 1, specifically the bow tie pasta with sausage and peas is the best.
Audrey Glass
