DJ of the Week — Huf N’ Stuf

Every week (or so…) we introduce you to a local LGBTQ party DJ and ask them about their experiences in the scene and feature an audio mix they’ve made. This week we’ll be featuring 2, as there are 2 great upcoming parties, one brand new and one only quarterly. So while I’d rather space them out this is an exception. If you’re interested in being featured contact alley@qpdx.com.

DJ Huf N’ Stuf, aka John David Camacho, is a tall glass of bespectacled water who’s currently spinning at Bridge Club at Produce Row as well as the quarterly Queerlandia. His style has evolved over the past five years as he’s imbued his retro style – taken largely from his original record collection – with groovy and electronic vibes. Huf N’ Stuf plays the next Queerlandia March 17 at RedCap Garage and Boxxes, where he’ll be joined by DJ Bruce LaBruiser, a visiting DJ LunchLady, and others.  Also keep an eye out for another in-the-works project: a westside party every fourth Saturday. Watch out Blow Pony!

When and how did you get started DJing?

I started DJing maybe five years ago. I got my start opening for Booty. Puppet and Stormy gave me my first opportunity to play out, and I am forever grateful. Soon after I started a weekly Monday party called Lingo, which was a performance-driven dance party.

How did you get your DJ name?

My DJ name is sort of an afterthought. When I started working with Alicia Rose on Original Queer Night at Mississippi Studios, she asked me if I had a DJ name and I just threw that out. I think it was between that and DJ-D.J. from Roseanne.

Who are you influences/inspirations?

There is a long list of influences. I love everything Gant Johnson and Mario Diaz create. They did the best parties in New York. They consistently bring that moment when you look around and think, “This party is amazing.” Rob Loucks (a.k.a. Orographic) is a constant inspiration. I am privileged and honored to be working with him on Queerlandia.

Why do you DJ?

I don’t know why I DJ. I love music, It’s fun, etc. Really, I DJ for myself. I play music I want to hear when I go out.

What parties/clubs do you currently DJ?

Currently I am DJing at Queerlandia and Bridge Club. We are starting a new monthly at Boxxes every fourth Saturday. I will be spinning April 11 at Magic Mouth‘s video and EP release with Stay Calm.

What genres of music do you like to play?

I play modern and old classic shit.

What are some of your current favorite tracks?

Digitalism – Just Gazin’

Tycho – Hours

Tommy James – Draggin’ the Line

Pointer Sisters – Jump (For My Love)

The Emotions – I Don’t Wanna Lose Your Love

What do you wish would stop being played out right now?

Lady Gaga, Ke$ha, Gotye remixes

What was your WORST DJ experience?

I spun vinyl and DJed this party whose venue didn’t have a sturdy table, so the records skipped every time someone stepped on the dance floor. It was funny. Luckily Stormy and Lustache were there to save the day.

What was your BEST DJ experience?

I would say Queerlandia’s Werkforce where we had all of our favorite DJs from eight different queer parties around Portland play on Labor Day weekend.

What makes a DJ experience good for you?

Good sound, good people, good times.

What are your main pieces of equipment and your favorite?

I use Technics 1200s and an Allen & Heath Xone Series mixer. Those are my favorite. I would love to play with the Xone:92.

What else do you want qPDX to know about you?

I am the tallest Mexican in Portland.