Are you ready to discover the next rising star in the music world? Look no further than our exclusive SHEDJ of the Week Weekly Feature! Each week, we handpick an incredible talent from the world of underground and independent music and showcase their exceptional skills, unique style, and captivating sounds.
What can you expect from SHEDJ of the Week? Prepare to be blown away by the electrifying beats, soul-stirring melodies, and boundary-pushing creativity that these emerging SHEDJs bring to the table.
Whether you're a dedicated music enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves uncovering fresh, innovative sounds, our weekly feature promises to deliver a captivating audio experience like no other. Join us in celebrating diversity, originality, and the raw passion that fuels the underground music scene. Ready to embark on a sonic adventure unlike any other?
SHEDJS: What initially sparked your passion for DJing, and how did you get started in the music scene?
I grew up in Ottawa and had the opportunity to go to Montreal for the first time with a friend. I didn’t know where I was going or what I was doing, but while walking a very long corridor with the sounds of the bass rumbling through its walls, the adrenaline rush spoke volumes.
After immersing myself entirely into the underground House and Techno scene, I quickly realized that I not only wanted to be the dancer, I wanted to make them dance. To create moments of therapy as other Djs had done for me so many times in the past. Music has been the key to my happiness, a happiness I want to share with the world.
SHEDJS: Can you share a memorable experience from one of your performances or events that stands out in your mind?
It might sound a little clichè, but every performance has been memorable for me. I moved to the West Coast 3 years ago from Ottawa not knowing a single soul. Since then, I have performed in several cities across British Columbia as well as the Victoria Pride Festival in the Park 2023. That was, by far, the biggest audience I have played for and the best set(s) I have ever played. It might have something to do with the Aladdin remix I threw but it has everything to do with the humans who shared that beautiful day with me as much as my friends who had my back the entire time. I am a very fortunate human to have so much love surrounding me, especially when the nerves are running.
This performance is viewable on my Instagram Account.
SHEDJS: How do you approach creating a setlist or choosing tracks for a particular event or venue?
I love new release music days. This is where most of my inspiration comes from. All it takes is 1 track to start my set and once I find the vibe, it’s easy to fill in the holes thereafter.
Most of my sets have intentions. I use samples to create lyric play and to express what I’m feeling at that moment. If it's deep and dark - I’m going through it, if it's light and airy - I’m more than likely falling in love. Music is therapy. Creating sets are my sessions.
SHEDJS: Are there specific genres or artists that have had a significant influence on your style?
Growing up in Ottawa and having the opportunity to frequent Montreal Clubs and Afterhours, I quickly grew a small obsession for Tech House and House Music. Artists like Mark Knight, Dale Howard, Prok & Fitch, CamelPhat and of course Carl Cox fuelled my education into House Music. Record labels like Toolroom, Dirtybird, South of Saturn, Defected, Spinnin’ Records and so many more fill my sets.
Tech House and its characteristics helped create the name I use on stage, Percusshunkidd.
SHEDJS: In a constantly evolving industry, how do you stay updated on new music trends and technologies?
Social media is a wonderful teacher. Following the right accounts and staying current on what they’re sharing to the world has been a big help in keeping me current. Otherwise, I learn from watching and listening.
I am a member of Bad House Guests here in Kamloops, BC. It is a collective of unbelievably talented Dj/Producers. Having a family of humans who love genres different from mine has been one of my greatest assets. Having the opportunity to listen and learn from them has been a complete blessing.
SHEDJS: Do you have any advice for aspiring DJs looking to break into the scene or enhance their skills?
Trust in the process and believe in your music selection. When you feel what you’re playing, that's when the experience for the crowd is top notch.
Always have a playlist of tracks that you know will save the day. I've cleared dance floors before and without having “saver tracks”, I might not have been able to get them back out there.
Be yourself. There’s a reason you want to share your music with people. Play the tracks that speak about who you are as a human. This will win every time.
SHEDJS: What's next for you in terms of projects, collaborations, or upcoming gigs?
So many things are on my plate and I love it. From being selected as this year's Wicked Woods Music Festival’s Artist Relations Supervisor, I will also be playing TOTOFEST 9 in Rock Creek, BC as well as Electric Love Music Festival in Chase, BC. I also got the opportunity to play a smaller scale party called Mile 0 on Vancouver Island in July. I will also be playing tunes all day at Sun Peaks for the 5k Foam Fest.
Some projects that I have underway are working to create a sample pack of my own original vocals as well as original tracks. I would love to produce something good enough to be on Toolroom Records and I am manifesting this everyday.