Locals: A-Call Interview
Who are you? How old are you?
I’m DJ A-Call and I’m 43 years old. I have been DJing for these last 20 odd years.
Mention an artist that inspired you to become a DJ/producer?
When I started DJing, my main sources of inspiration were Junior B, Brian James and DJ Luv. In the late 90’s they were my 3 favourite local DJs and I would always sneak somewhere next to the booth and have a look at their skills behind the decks. Internationally, my inspiration was Jeff Mills. During my early days in the rave/club scene, I started building a collection of CDs, and one fine day I came across the Mix-Up collection from Sony. One of these mixes was recorded in the Liquid Room in Japan and features the Exhibitionist himself on 3 decks. I was immediately hooked and determined to learn any possible DJ skills in order to maybe one day play in front of a crowd. Moreover, as the rave/club scene in Malta grew, more DJs were entering the scene and therefore, as time went on my sources of inspiration came also from my peers. The new generation of DJs is also a great source of inspiration as they can offer different perspectives to the clubbing experience and everyone can learn from each other.
How do you stay up to date with the latest music trends?
Presently my inspiration right now is the Unmute Malta crew i.e. Mark, Rene and Brian, who have been supporting local DJs in these difficult times and providing a platform for different DJs to exercise their skills.
Is there a local artist that you look up to and love to see play at events?
All Local Artists..
What skills do you think DJs need to be successful?
The skills needed are not just the technical ones that are needed behind the decks, DJs also need to be entrepreneurs. Teamwork, in order to create a solid group that can help in organising an event. Organisational skills, in order to understand the logistics behind putting up an event. Time management and creativity are also a must.
What would you say is the most rewarding part of being a DJ?
