The Knockturnal recently got to speak to DJ sourMILK about: the music industry during and post COVID-19, his experience as a DJ, and more!
DJ sourMILK is Tyga’s official DJ and is signed with SKAM Artist. Having spun onto the scene in 2000, Cali native DJ sourMILK has already performed alongside some of the music industry’s heaviest hitters including Ozzy Osbourne, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Get to know DJ sourMILK below!
The Knockturnal: How are you holding up in a COVID-19 world?
DJ sourMILK: It’s an adjustment, but trying to make the best of it. It’s forcing me to try to be creative, so that’s good.
The Knockturnal: What was it like filming your 24 hour IG LIVE DJ set?
DJ sourMILK: It was very fun, but VERY exhausting. My back still hurts. Haha!
The Knockturnal: Being able to do a 24 hour IG Live DJ set is awesome! Has this time changed your outlook on the power of social media and being able to connect with others?
DJ sourMILK: It definitely has. Social media is really cool when used the right way. It was really dope to have all those people, both strangers and friends, supporting me.
The Knockturnal: Did you encounter any technical difficulties during your IG Live set, and how did you rectify them?
DJ sourMILK: The only technical difficulties was getting booted off a few times by IG, luckily I was able to get right back on and keep the music going.
The Knockturnal: Did you know Tyga was going to join your IG live and give your followers/dm fans a sneak peak of his newest single?
DJ sourMILK: I did not know. The best thing about it was he came in around 4:30 am when it was starting to die down a bit and him coming in gave the stream new life.
The Knockturnal: What has it been like working with Tyga?
DJ sourMILK: It’s been one of the best experiences I’ve had working in the music industry. He’s one of the nicest dudes ever and I’ve known him for 10 years or so, so it was natural.
The Knockturnal: You are represented by one of the country’s leading DJ/talking booking agencies, SKAM Artist. What has that experience been like?
DJ sourMILK: These last 4-5 years have been the best years of my life. SKAM Artist founder and CEO Sujit Kundu is relentless when it comes to getting his DJs work and he won’t hold back on letting you know what you need to improve on and do better to get to that next level.
The Knockturnal: What is it like being a DJ for Power 106?
DJ sourMILK: Not saying this because I work there, but I truly believe there’s no bigger trendsetter in the radio world than Power. It’s been the staple of the city since it launched. Having that platform to push my brand along with the L.A. Leakers brand is PRICELESS.
The Knockturnal: Who’s been your favorite person to perform alongside?
DJ sourMILK: Obviously I love being able to rock stages with Tyga, but there’s been so many. One of the first people that come to mind is my good friend, Nipsey Hussle. I was able to tour Japan with Nipsey in 2011 and we became pretty close from that point on. I will always hold those moments with him very close to my heart. LONG LIVE NIP HUSSLE!
The Knockturnal: Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations?
DJ sourMILK: There are so many, but I’ll focus on the DJs. I always tell people my life changed after hearing Kid Capri live. Another DJ that really changed the way I looked at/listened to music is C-Minus. I was always scared to say I listened to other genres because I wasn’t sure it would be accepted, listening to his mixes changed that for me.
The Knockturnal: You started off making “mixtapes” by recording from tape deck- to tape deck. What has it been like seeing the music process transform for you?
DJ sourMILK: Technology is a TRIP. I feel like I’ve been pretty late to everything as far as technology goes. I got on Serato late, then moved to Serato DJ late, still use an old version of Pro Tools, don’t like using CDJs… But even though I move slow, it’s so weird to see how things have evolved and I’m excited to see where it goes next.
The Knockturnal: Who are currently some of your favorite DJs?
DJ sourMILK: I still really enjoy a lot of people for different reasons. Some for their technical skills, some for their selections, some for their party rockin’… but a few names that come to mind are: Justin Credible, Eric Dlux, Five, Ever, Bella Fiasco, Angie Vee, Carisma, Miles Medina, J Espinosa, Big Ben… there’s so much more, I can go on forever, but I’ll stop there.
The Knockturnal: What has the impact of COVID-19 been like in the DJ/Music industry?
DJ sourMILK: It’s been deflating, but everyone has shown resilience. Those that really want to win have figured out how to adjust. Just know that things will eventually get better, just gotta keep your foot on the gas.
The Knockturnal: What do you think nightlife will be like post-COVID-19?
DJ sourMILK: I think it’s gonna start back up slow. I’m sure venues will have restrictions, but I think we’ll be back to normal sometime next year.
The Knockturnal: What’s next for you?
DJ sourMILK: Just adjusting to all these social media platforms. The latest trend has been Twitch, so really just trying to build up a Twitch profile and get some eyes on my page. Been working on DJ Sourmilk merch as well as my own clothing line. And of course, keeping new mixtapes coming.
For more information on DJ SourMILK visit http://skamartist.com/
