DJ Trackstar
SPB: Do you feel the value of a DJ has diminished in present day hip-hop? If so, do you see a resurgence on the horizon?
DJ Trackstar: Compared to a couple decades ago, I'd say it definitely has. Recorded hip-hop definitely features far fewer scratches than they used to--in the 80s and 90s, a lot of albums would have entire songs dedicated to the DJ! As far as performance, I think having a DJ keeping the pace and adding scratches is still a really important part of any live hip-hop show. A lot of artists travel without one, just using whoever the house DJ is at the venue--at worst it can be a disaster, and even at best it doesn't compare to the polish of an act that has established trust and communication with their own guy. Hopefully this next generation of youth who have come up with a huge exposure to EDM culture may value the role differently since they will be more accustomed to seeing DJs as the centerpiece of performances.
