DJ of the Week — Pocket Rock-it

Every week 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. If you’re interested in being featured contact alley@qpdx.com.

DJ Pocket Rock-it may have taken a break from residencies at clubs such as Red Cap but he’s certainly been popping up all over the place as a guest at queer parties, club nights and fundraisers. This weekend you can catch him at Bent, North Portland’s biggest queer/dyke night. This Friday’s edition features all kinds of interesting guests on the decks in addition to the Rock-it such as Mr. Charming (Gaycation),  Kasio Smashio (Deep Cuts), DJ Bender (Crave/Sluts N’ Squares) and, of course the lady killers Roy-G-Biv and Jodi Bon Jodi.

When and how did you get started DJing?

I was interested in the concept and decided to buy a book on the subject. Later, I bought some turntables and started practicing. After a couple of months of practicing, I made a mix and took it to different venues trying to get a night. The rest is history.

How did you get your DJ name?

The first name I chose was DJ tanner (ala full house), but was unaware of the faux pas in the DJ community. I then started to think about what I wanted my name to represent. Pocketrock-it came to mind because of it’s sexual nature and movement involved.

Who are you influences/inspirations?

I generally respect DJ’s that are also musicians and producers. I look to people like James Murphy, Kim Ann Foxman, and Roisin Murphy for my inspirations.

Why do you dj?

I DJ because I love music. I love being involved with great Portland parties and people.

What parties/clubs do you currently DJ?

I just play random parties around town at the moment. I had a 2 year residency at Redcap and wanted to take a break from DJing constantly. I am playing at Bent on the 11th, which I am stoked about. Also, I have a big party in the works at a new venue that’s opening in inner southeast.

What genres of music do you like to play?

I like to play house music and electronic music in general. Lately I have been playing more 90’s jams to broaden my scope.

What are some of your current favorite tracks?

I kind of have been traveling back in time with the music I’ve been listening to lately. I recently rediscovered “Crazy Itch Radio”, an album by Basement Jaxx. They did a song with Robyn before her comeback called “Hey You”. It’s Fantastic. I have also been listening to Moloko a lot lately.

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

Current top 40 music. You listened to it in your car on the ride to the show, you’re going to listen to it when you drive home. Why do you need to hear it at the bar? I mean there are some gems, but when I go out I want to hear music that I have never heard before with a great beat.

What was your WORST DJ experience?

When I was DJing at Redcap, some dude kept pestering me and trying to get me to play Britney Spears and Lady Gaga which isn’t really my thing. He told me I was an awful DJ. I felt so much anger I stopped the music and quit on the spot after 2 years of working there. I don’t think people think about how they sound when they are making requests.

What was your BEST DJ experience?

Probably when I played a private party that my friend put together last new years. He rented the space above Mississippi Studios and the night was magical.

What makes a DJ experience good for you?

Working with easy going people, whether they be the owner of the venue, or the other talent that I am working with. It’s also a great feeling when people are dancing during your set.

What are your main pieces of equipment and your favorite?

I use Denon CDJ’s and a mixer. I like the Denons because they are easy to control and to travel with. I am thinking of switching to Serato or something similar in the future.

What else do you want qPDX to know about you?

I also play bass in a band called “Magic Mouth“. Currently we are recording an EP that should be out by the beginning of the year. Besides that I started helping out with the art shows at East End, and we have openings every first friday from 6-8PM.

Rocket (Pocketrock-it Remix) by Dj Pocketrock-it