Roonie G Interview

by: Jacquari Harris jacquari@jmgemag.com So, with technical skills that can stimulate both the shy and the boisterous, Roonie G. delves into a dimension of mixing that’s innovative, entertaining and provocative.   As a Two-Time Club Award Winner and in the Top 10 of “America’s Best DJs,” Roonie G. has gained the name recognition and respect that he so rightly deserves. In high demand, Roonie G. has opened up for artists such as: Diddy, Wyclef Jean and Kid Rock.   As a DJ, Remixer, Producer and Artist, Roonie G. continues to push the envelope. I was able to speak with the award-winning DJ about his journey, success and what keeps him grounded.   JMG: What can first time club goers expect from DJ Roonie G? DJ Roonie G: A hybrid party. A musical journey of all types of music. My sets make for a very unique experience. I like to compare it to Cirque du Soleil. It’s not your typical DJ set, it’s a step above that’s a sensory overload with creative presentations.    JMG: You’re a Two-Time Club Award Winner and in the top ten of “America’s Best DJs.” How do you feel about the work you’ve done so far? DJ Roonie G: I think it’s great. These awards are a gratification of my accomplishments. But I feel that I’m far from reaching my goals.   JMG: How has DJing changed since you first started? DJ Roonie G: When I first started it was vinyl only. Now, technology has made a huge impact. With   video, it gives people a third ear. Having visuals really takes the DJ to the next level. I used to go vinyl shopping, but now I’m digging through the internet for what I need. It’s exciting to see how the industry has changed, but you just have to stay on top of it.    JMG: You’ve opened up for some big names including: Diddy, Wyclef Jean, and Kid Rock. Is there one experience that really stands out? DJ Roonie G: This year I opened up for Snoop Dog at the Bud Bowl Street Party. There were about 6 – 10,000 people there. I was so excited after my set, I went back onstage and did a back flip. I ended up hurting myself and I was on crutches. So that was memorable (laughing).   JMG: Besides dance and hip-hop are there any other genres of music that you’re interesting in remixing? DJ Roonie G: No genre is off limits to me. I appreciate all aspects of music. Music is the way to a persons’ soul and emotions. I like all types of music from pop to international.  JMG: Are there any challenges that you face after being in the business for over 25 years? DJ Roonie G: Everyday is a challenge. The biggest challenge is to not let the life consume you. You have to balance your life between work and family. At times I feel like a struggling musician because I’m trying to find that balance.   JMG: Can we expect you in Houston anytime soon? DJ Roonie G: Hopefully in the near future, I would love to come.  JMG: What’s next for Roonie G? DJ Roonie G: Overall, I write and produce music. So I’m excited to go back into the studio and work on some audio. That’s going back to the basics for me. I feel like I’ve come full circle with everything that I do by going back to where it all starts – audio.