Hell's Kitchen Radio #603: No, You're Stunning!

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So much has changed in the past few weeks, that I think it's creeping into the music I play for you. You can't tell? Then you aren't paying attention. 

We put on such a fine show at the FabMab and On Broadway on February 28th, I'm still floating above the floor. And I think about what Bowie said about doing your art: don't get too comfortable, and don't do it for the listeners; it'll compromise you. 

How true.

There are many weeks, in the middle of my show, when I'm playing something with a sweet groove, that I think about playing a 15 minute long, dissonant track, but I often hold back, not wanting to alienate my audience. What's that about? I come from a long history of left-of-the-dial DJs who pride themselves on pushing the limits. I've written before about the two schools I carried on with at the mythic KFJC: always play something "accessible", versus "fuck 'em if they don't like it". 

I've tried to walk the line in the middle over the years, but I'll admit I err on the side of the former a wee bit too often.

I need to recommit to pushing the sound in the direction that always brings me the most joy. This is not a selfish act. This is why you tune in. I take requests about .05% of the time, so it's not like I'm abandoning you. 

Tonight was good ol' quality music that I tapped my toes along to the whole show. 

I've got music spanning seven decades...or is it eight? 

This Monday night Daniel Haver of Mabuhay Gardens is joining me to guest DJ. He has a $1000 7"-45 he's threatening to bring in. I may need to change the needles.

We have an exciting show Radio Valencia is co-presenting, and yours truly is producing on June 13th. Set your calendars. You do not want to miss this!

Enjoy and please share.

jh

Hell's Kitchen Radio with John Hell
Mondays 8-10PM Pacific
Radio Valencia in SF
http://radiovalencia.fm

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