David started as a club and rave promoter in DC, where he learned "how to spend a dollar to make $10" and how to create experience for his guests.

He then took those talents to Silicon Valley where he became a VC, investing in tech companies including Airbnb. He's now the founder of EI.Ventures which is launching a line of "farmaceutical" products — using naturally grown psychedelics to treat mental health concerns.

We explore the similarities and differences betweent he rave scene and the tech scene as well as how you can build a successful career on wisdom and empathy.

EI.Ventures founder David Nikzad: Invest in yourself

Terry and his crew at Secret Walls are building a global graffiti brand, with live in-person battles happening all over the world and a growing presence online and soon to be in the metaverse. Behind all the business moves is a love and respect for the culture. Support Your Local Artist is their motto and the driver for everything they do.

We dig into Terry's journey as well as his vision for Secret Walls. Dig in.

Check out https://secretwalls.world for tour dates and other info, including the opportunity to download a free NFT.

Secret Walls founder Terry Guy: Support Your Local Artist

"The future is a mystery," Seun tells us, now back home in Lagos, Nigeria, after his latest world tour.

He's been leading his father's band, Egypt 80, since he was 14, stepping up to the mic after Fela's untimely death. Twenty-five years later, he says he never "took over" the band, but instead "we just kept playing... it's always been a collective mission for me."

Our interview gets into some real issues of globalization, class struggle, and corrupt narratives that fill public discourse across media and entertainment. Seun's outlook is bleak: "it seems like humanity is hell bent on destroying itself," and yet somehow hopeful at the same time, fueled by his love for his family.

Let's get to it...

Also make sure you check out his latest project, African Dreams, with Black Thought: https://awal.ffm.to/africandreams

Seun Kuti: Musicianship + Ideology

Danny G set a goal to release 10,000 pieces of content in 2022 across all of his channels. That’s 28 a day for all our math nerds. 

That forced him to think differently about his process and to focus on creating momentum with the algorithms, and his career. Scary at first but we dig into how he organized his life and business around this type of growth. 

Make sure you check out his music and more at https://dannygofficial.com/

Danny G: It’s about momentum

Few artists have experienced the extreme highs and lows of Moby's career, from the global dominance of his 1999 album Play and headlining festivals, to the despair of feeling it all slip away.

We talk about all of it: fame and fortune, addiction and misplaced expectations, and the perspective you can gain through surviving what might feel unsurvivable.  We also talk about Moby's new label, Always Centered at Night, and what it means to forget the algorithms and take an analog approach in this digital world.

Oh, and you should definitely check out the label at https://www.alwayscenteredatnight.com 
And dig deeper into Moby's incredible story with Moby Doc: https://www.amazon.com/Moby-Doc/dp/B095S4X5D1/

Let's go...

Moby: You don't have to make something normal

Part 1 of 2

Evan "Kidd" Bogart seems like he would have had an easy ride to the top. He was born into music industry success —  the son of Casablanca Records founder Neil Bogart and Kiss manager Joyce Bogart Trabulus. And today has a Grammy (for Beyonce's "Halo") and a long list of hit songs (see below), and now a movie — Spinning Gold — which he made with his brothers, about his father.

In between is where it gets interesting. 

He tried to break through as a rapper in the 90s. When that didn't work, he started in the music business and became known as the guy who discovered Eminem and didn't get credit for it (you'll hear a bit of that story in our episode). Evan started again, only to have it fall apart and have to move home at 26, and start again.

You'll have to listen to our interview to find out how it all turned around for him, and the lessons he learned from the ups and downs. But it should be obvious that never giving up is core for Evan, and that his love and passion for music has driven him through life's challenges.

Make sure you come back next week for part 2 where we talk about the incredible movie Spinning Gold, on which Evan is executive producer, music supervisor, and composer. Check it out at https://www.spinninggold.movie

Meanwhile, here's just a partial list of the artists Evan has contributed to:
Eminem
Maroon 5
One Republic
Rhianna
Styles of Beyond
Planet Asia
Jason Derulo
Sean Kingston
Enrique Iglesias
Jennifer Lopez
Lizzo

Evan Bogart: When things get tough, lean in

We're back with Part 2 with Evan "Kidd" Bogart. Make sure you listen to part 1 to hear about Evan's incredbile journey through the music industry.

He's also executive producer, music supervisor, and composer for the new motion picture "Spinning Gold" which tells the story of his father, Neil Bogart, who discovered Kiss, Donna Summer, George Clinton, and built the most successful disco label in America, Casablanca Records.

We dig into some hidden gems about the movie — like why he used all original recordings of his father's music, instead of the versions we all know and love, and what it was like working with his brothers and his mother on this project.

Make sure you check https://www.spinninggold.movie to find out how to see it. Don't miss some amazing performances from Jason Derulo, Wiz Khalifa, and many others.

"Spinning Gold" Is a Family Story and a Thrilling Musical Odyssey! — with Evan Bogart

If you spend time in Venice, or follow West Coast graffiti, I'm sure you're familiar with the Art of Chase. His eye imagery has become iconic around these parts and he brings a bright playfulness to walls far beyond the beach.

Our sometimes co-host Eddie Donaldson from Guerilla One helps us unpack Chase's story, which is way more interesting than you might guess. We touch on the history of graffiti, skateboarding, and hip hop. And how to bring salesmanship into an artistic career. And what it means to be an immigrant in this culture. And prostitution and lawsuits. And Bansky. This episode has it all!

Go get it, then check out some art below...

Chase: https://www.instagram.com/theartofchase/
Guerilla One: https://www.instagram.com/guerillaone/
Happy No Fear podcast: https://happynofear.transistor.fm
OG Slick: https://www.instagram.com/og_slick/
Flying Fortress: https://www.instagram.com/flyingfortress5410/

Chase: The more I paint, the luckier I get.

Today's show is less of an interview and more of a wine-fueled roundtable where we talk about music, friendship, business, and how they all fit together.

My co-host is Dennis White aka Latroit. He was my guest on the very first episode of Rebel Radio and has made a few appearances over the years. We're interviewing his friend and fellow Berklee alum Ramin Sakurai of Supreme Beings of Leisure.

You may remember them as one of the top trip-hop acts of the late 90s/early 2000s. Their hit "Never The Same" was one of the core tracks that bridged hip hop, dance music, jazz, funk, dub, and more into cool vibes.

They've been gone from the scene for a while, but came back this year with their first new release in 14 years.

Let's get into it. Some links below to check out after you listen

https://www.sbleisure.com
Check their new album, 22 on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/62oupFZQ9VPJqNBBAEUPuC?si=UEtp1LVvS06o7J2iba0lug
Or Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/22/1663402457

Check the latest from Latroit here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4keJDDQx0ac2jhmknbSLFK?si=ctvaWCHQTn2hyY5RjbqamA
Or here: https://www.instagram.com/latroit/

And the new Latroit remix of SBL's "Desert": 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHv-Eqos20I

Supreme Beings of Leisure: Never give up your dream

Brand partnerships in music has become more and more important in recent years. It's been a big part of my business — putting partnerships together for brands like Scion, Mazda, 7UP, and for artists like Linkin Park — and today's episode is with two people at the top of the game.

Joe Belliotti and Rebecca Jolly (are the authors of How Music Grows Brands — a field guide to building successful partnerships.  The book is incredibly insightful into what it takes to make these relationships work, how and why they often go wrong, and contains a number of practical tools for measurement, analysis, selling, planning, etc. You should definitely get a copy if you're in this business: https://www.amazon.com/How-Music-Grows-Brands-Field/dp/1544537824

We dig into their unique journeys in music, events, and corporate brands. Joe was formerly former head of music at Coca-Cola, and Rebecca publisher of Mixmag, Kerrang, and The Face, and head of partnerships at SFX. They both consult major brands on everything related to music.

Time for class...

How Music Grows Brands — Joe Belliotti and Rebecca Jolly

Crystal Waters is the queen of house music!

She was making dance floor killers when most of you were still in short pants, and more importantly her songs still move like they did back then. We talk about her extraordinary journey as an artist and entrepreneur and the new ventures she's gotten herself into. She's wise but not jaded and I'm sure you're gonna enjoy listening.

Go get it.

Lessons from The QUEEN of House Music: Crystal Waters

KC Lights is a house DJ from Scotland whose star is rising quickly. This summer's hit "Better Times" accelerated that process, and when you see him live, you'll understand why.

KC Lights: Music that grabs you and doesn't let go

This week’s guest is Marques Wyatt. In this episode you will find snippets of music from Aerosmith, Loosid, FKA Twigs, Depeche Mode, and Jesse Saunders. 

Not only is Marques the godfather of LA’s deep house scene, his lineage traces directly to the great Frankie Knuckles, who mentored Marques after meeting him in a club in New York in the 1980s. From those auspicious beginnings, Marques went on to pioneer some of Los Angeles's most important clubs, including Brass, Does Your Mama Know, and most recently, Deep, exposing fans to groundbreaking acts such as Brand New Heavies, Louie Vega, and Jamiroquai.

He’s a DJ’s DJ, a house music purist who integrates his love for yoga and his spiritual quest into his effort to move people on the dance floor. In our interview, we discuss the highs and lows of club promotion, the way house music has changed over the years, and meeting Paris Hilton. That’s the second Paris Hilton story on Rebel Radio, by the way!

This dude has seen some major changes over the years, and has made it a mission in life to keep the integrity of the music he loves. At the same time, he has words for the haters: “What does it matter to you at the end of the day? That’s their choice. People can spend their money however they want to spend it.”

Find his Soundcloud channel here: https://soundcloud.com/marques-wyatt 

Check out what EDM.COM has to say here: http://edm.com/articles/2015-07-08/rebel-radio-ep4-marques-wyatt


Marques Wyatt, godfather of deep house and a pioneer of LA's club scene

Welcome to the 12th episode of Rebel Radio.

Adam 12 sees people at their best, and at their worst. He sees them from the DJ booth, having the time of their lives on the dance floor, living their culture; and he sees them turnt up, twisted, too distracted by social media to really enjoy themselves.

That’s what it’s like when you live behind the decks for multiple decades. Adam is Obama’s DJ after having DJed for Christina Aguilera, Prince, Madonna, and just about every hot party in Los Angeles. We did a party together where he consistently murdered, often making fools of DJs with much bigger names.

He’s a hip hop kid, but also half of the dark wave band She Wants Revenge. His secrets to success:

1.	Do what you love. Whether it’s photography or different styles of music, if it moves you, you have to explore it.
2.	Put the phone down. His newest club night doesn’t allow photos at all, so celebrities can be themselves and everyone can be present.
3.	If you don’t like the way it is, build your own thing. Frustration with the LA club scene led him to create his own party, which is not only fun for him but for his guests as well.

Hit us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/rebelradionet and leave us comments or suggestions for future guests. Don’t forget to subscribe, comment, share, and leave us 5-star reviews.

Rebel Radio is now available on Dash Radio! Check us out every Thursday at 6 pm PST on the Hot Button channel. http://bit.ly/RebelDash.

Also find us on iTunes or Soundcloud. 
http://j.mp/RebelRadioItunes

In this episode, you will hear snippets of tracks from Run DMC, Aretha Franklin, Slick Rick, and more.

The EDM.com Track of the Week is BVRZZ – Wasted Emotions featuring, Tate Tucker https://soundcloud.com/the-bay/bvrzz-wasted-emotions-feat-tate-tucker-exclusive

If you're digging the tracks, buy them here:

Dave Pike Set, Mathar	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mathar/id439588620?i=439588840

Aretha Franklin, Rock Steady	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rock-steady/id266602438?i=266606802

She Wants Revenge, Tear You Apart	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/tear-you-apart/id91431035?i=91431082

Justin Warfield, K Sera Sera	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/k-sera-sera/id95821442?i=95820032

Suicidal Tendencies, Institutionalized	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/institutionalized/id498742982?i=498742988

Donna Summer, On The Radio	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/on-the-radio/id644613010?i=644613449

Run-DMC, Hard Times	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hard-times/id255372435?i=255373719

Slick Rick, A Children’s Story	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/childrens-story/id6259093?i=6259027

DJ Adam 12: What I learned playing for Obama, Madonna, Prince, and Christina Aguilera

Check out this week's episode with The Baka Boyz. 

In this episode you will hear the EDM.COM track of the week from IshDARR - Sugar : https://soundcloud.com/lavish/ishdarr-sugar-prod-medasin 

And music from Rick James, Pet Shop Boys, Volume 10, Major Lazer, Outkast, Cypress Hill, and AC Slater.

Nick V. says Josh Levine is guarded.

He might be right. But next to him, everyone seems guarded. He’s the outgoing half of a brother-brother duo who has dominated the airwaves in Los Angeles and around the country for nearly two decades. After moving from nearby Bakersfield, the Vidal brothers changed the sound of LA radio, from the mix show to the morning drive. They introduced Tito — one of LA’s most beloved characters — and helped to discover Big Boy, who would go on to run the morning show for 18 years. Their new show, The Hip Hop Master Mix, is syndicated in over 30 markets.

They’ve been important contributors to the Latin hip hop scene, collaborating with OG’s like Mellow Man Ace, ALT, and Lighter Shade of Brown. They also produced the hit single “Pistol Grip Pump” for Volume 10.

Perhaps most impressively, they still talk to each other after all these years. Their secret: Stay in your lane. Nick does what he does; Eric does what he does. They also seek outside help from time to time.

Learn more about their impressive career path, as well as adventures with Pitbull, MC Hammer, and more. 

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share. Or we'll hunt you down. Get at you next week. 

Play us on iTunes: http://j.mp/RebelRadioItunes

Here's a link to all the music you heard this episode:

Cali Kings Mixtape Vol. 1	
http://www.allmusic.com/song/cali-kings-pt-1-mt0004433689

Rick James, Give It To Me Baby	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/give-it-to-me-baby/id101405?i=101395

Pet Shop Boys, West End Girls	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/west-end-girls-2001-remaster/id726390543?i=726390687

Outkast, Rosa Parks	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rosa-parks/id266365274?i=266365293

AC Slater, Ass Drop	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/ass-drop-feat.-dell-harris/id572572674?i=572573265

The Baka Boyz on dominating hip hop radio since the 90s

Time for some action.

That’s the word that comes to mind when I think about Ookay: action.

Feels a little like dude came out of nowhere to build a fan base that hangs on his every photo and enjoys his antics like taking his dad to Winter Music Conference. You may or may not love his music (it’s noisy and feels very “of the moment” in both good and bad ways), but you definitely get the sense that he’s having fun doing his thing.

He’s also managed to attract the attention of some major players in the game, like Steve Aoki and Borgore, and seems to be playing bigger and bigger stages.

How does he do it? Our interview sheds some light on being in the moment and totally transparent with fans, as well as the determination that had him driving to LA from San Diego on a weekly basis to hang out with the Dim Mak crowd just to get his foot in the door.

Instead of wishing he could get put on, he took action. Instead of hoping fans would notice, he took action.

The EDM.COM track of the week is Triad Dragons and EKG Get Ready - https://soundcloud.com/trapmusic/triad-dragons-ekg-get-ready 

Other tracks featured in the episode:

Lauryn Hill Lost Ones	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/lost-ones/id157496745?i=157496874

Rusko Woo Boost	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/woo-boost/id570860835?i=570861070

Major Lazer Original Don	https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/original-don-feat.-partysquad/id474646553?i=474646557

Ookay on 3 Ways you get to the top? Hint: 'take action'

Rude Jude calls himself a shock jock. If you listen to him on the All Out Show on Sirius Radio’s Shade 45, you’ll hear him get into fights and adopt a generally surly demeanor between popular hip hop tracks. The Floyd Mayweather beef is particularly entertaining, and, frankly, even more poignant than Michael Rapaport calling him Floyd Kardashian, which is also kinda dope.

If you read his memoir, Hyena — or better yet, listen to the audiobook to hear Jude read it in his captivating voice — you’ll hear him take his shock jockery to unprecedented levels in true accounts of his exploits of degrading sex and drug abuse.

In our interview, Jude comes across much less calculated than the shock jock term implies. This man is without pretense, often to his own detriment. In response to my comment that most people who’ve been through the kinds of things he has keep to themselves, he says, “Those are the smart people. Those are the people who can keep a girlfriend."

But it’s working for Rude Jude. He was hand-picked by Eminem to host what has become the channel’s #1 show, and has kept that job for 11 years. Hyena has been optioned for a show at HBO that Jude is currently writing, in addition to a second book.

Along the way he’s learned some incredible lessons:

On getting out of his comfort zone:
If you’re comfortable you’re not growing. Keep putting yourself in situations where you’re uncomfortable.”

On the power of a job well done:
Anything I do you got to do that shit 100%. My poles at the strip club were clean as fuck.

On knowing his strengths:
Everybody has an advantage. Figure that shit out and leverage it. It’s like X-Men characters you got to figure out your shit and work it. I’m the crazy don’t give a fuck white dude. I know that shit and it looks like a fucking pedophile. It works for me. I leverage it as much as possible.

Oh, and on East Coast rap:
You ain’t done shit dope since the 90’s. Like there’s 10 million people in your city, think about it per capita how wack you are. Fucking lames. And then you can’t say, “Oh we invented rap.” Fucking 40 years ago. What have you done lately? Nothing.

Listen to our interview as we dig into inspiration, aspiration, and what pushes Jude to stay rude, as well as the times he thinks he may need to be a little less rude

This week's EDM.com track of the week is Wasiu - Good Girl (Prod. Dear Lola) by Lavish - https://soundcloud.com/lavish/wasiu-good-girl-prod-kaytranada-dear-lola-flip

If you enjoyed listening to the music snippets during this episode, find them here:

Roger Troutman ft. EPMD, (Everybody) Get Up  	https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ng2rDWQT3I 

UGK, Pocket Full of Stones	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/pocket-full-of-stones/id304746993?i=304747005

Doughboyz Cashout, Da Mob	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/da-mob/id556159951?i=556159957

2Pac, Me Against the World	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/me-against-world-feat.-dramacydal/id446002567?i=446002809

Rude Jude says if you talk ghetto make sure you dress white, & other keys to landing your own show.

Nowadays, a lot of people think of dubstep as the music that plays while drunken frat boys pump their fists. From a Key & Peele parody to a general disdain among dance music fans over 30, dubstep has become somewhat of a whipping boy for EDM.

It wasn’t always this way.

Once upon a time, dubstep was the underground alternative to the overly commercial direction UK garage took in the mid-2000s. Dubstep was dark, sparse, and a direct link back to the drum & bass roots.

Our guests today remember dubstep’s formative days, because they were there. Although the genre was well established in the UK by then, Caspa & Rusko's 2007 collab Fabriclive.37 helped introduce dubstep to audiences around the world.

They also know what it’s like to lose the plot. Following the success of Fabriclive.37, they got caught up in touring and their partnership just sort of faded. They never exactly split up, but ended up not working together for more than half a decade. Now, they’re back together and making the kind of music they love, starting with the formidable new single, Blouse an Skirt.

Along the way they’ve learned some important lessons about hard work, commitment, and avoiding the trap of making music to satisfy the crowd instead of making what you love.

Listen in and learn what we learned. Then leave us a comment and a one-million star review. And don’t forget to come back next week for more.

If you enjoyed the music from the episode, see below for links to download: 

EDM.com Track of the Week is Caspa and Rusko Blouse an Skirt -  https://soundcloud.com/dubstep/caspa-rusko-blouse-an-skirt

Snap, Rhythm Is A Dancer	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rhythm-is-dancer-original/id41892433?i=41892396

DJ Narrows, Saved Soul	
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVc1546lk3w

Rusko, Jahova 
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/jahova/id931859882?i=931864975

Skepta ft. JME, That's Not Me	
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/thats-not-me-feat.-jme-radio/id872559345?i=872559356

Caspa & Rusko on "Do what you love and the rest will follow!

If you love J. Dilla, Madlib, MF Doom, Mayer Hawthorne, Aloe Blacc, and Dam Funk then you have Peanut Butter Wolf to thank.

We're in studio with the king of the West Coast underground. Through his label, Stones Throw Records, Peanut Butter Wolf has given the world important, and sometimes commercially successful music from J. Dilla, Madlib, MF Doom, Mayer Hawthorne, Aloe Blacc, and Dam Funk, among others. 

He also crosses genres as if they didn’t exist, taking experimental, or just plain weird explorations into punk, psychedelic and other fringe sounds from folks like James Pants, Vex Ruffin, and Mild High Club. On top of all that, he maintains an active DJ career, a series of Stones Throw events, and was the subject of a 2014 documentary: Our Vinyl Weighs A Ton. 

And although he has built a successful business — now celebrating its 20th anniversary and revered by music fans for consistently breaking credible and interesting acts — Wolf could hardly be called a businessman (although he is definitely a business, man). He’s much more of a cult leader, gaining (and possibly losing a few) devotees with each new release. How: He simply puts out music that he loves and wants people to hear, flying in the face of the reborn, data-driven music industry. 

Listen in as we explore how he keeps his creativity sharp and what drives him to keep it moving into his third decade.

Peanut Butter Wolf : How to be a real influencer

Franki Chan is a punk. No, not like that. 

He got his start by responding to a flyer that said "if you’re antiracist, antigovernment, vegan, we’re trying to find a drummer.” From that day on, the DIY punk scene in Indiana became his life. 

Years later, he would move to LA, realize the seriousness of punk rock was missing one thing: fun, and launch a club called Fucking Awesome with his new friend and fellow unheard-of DJ, Steve Aoki. 

Though they didn’t know it at the time, the two were at the forefront of a movement that would not only change music, but even impact the way culture spreads around the world by bringing fun back into nightlife and creating an environment that’s more inclusive than exclusive. 

Nowadays, Franki runs his label / agency, IHEARTCOMIX —where he also illustrates all of the releases — and until recently, the event series Check Yo Ponytail. All of this places Franki at the intersection of music and geek culture, maybe like a cool version of The Nerdist. 

Franki drops by the studio to tell us about what it took to be able to let go of Check Yo, and how he constantly reinvents his future. Lot of good lessons here for entrepreneurs, not to mention aspiring comic book artists. 

Get it! And you better not forget to subscribe and leave us reviews and comments.

Franki Chan: Why your marketing doesn’t work and how to be authentic

It’s hard to overstate the influence DJ AM has had on the art of DJing.

There are a handful of DJs who have massively influenced the art of DJing.

- Kool Herc taught us we could mix two records together.
- Grandmaster Flash taught us we could scratch.
- Q-Bert taught us the turntable could be a musical instrument.
- AM taught us we could play whatever records we want.

Before he died, DJ AM inspired DJs around the world to break through boundaries many of them weren’t even aware of. He broke new ground for the profession of DJing as well, as the first to make $1 million a year, and then $2 million a year, from playing records.

Our guests today are telling AM’s story to the world in the upcoming documentary AS I AM: The Life and Times of DJ AM, a beautiful picture of an incredibly talented, heartbreakingly flawed human being.

Kevin Kerslake directed As I Am, and has been an important director of music videos, documentaries, and commercials for over 20 years. He’s made videos for Nirvana, Soundgarden, Stone Temple Pilots, among others, and documentaries about Bob Marley, Queens of the Stone Age, and Electric Daisy Carnival. Pick up some lessons in how to stay creative from one of the most creative guys around.

DJ Kevin Scott co-produced As I Am. He became close to DJ AM as they were both on the come-up around the Southern California club scene, and later the global club scene.

In our interview, they give us some insights into possible links between addiction and creativity, and talk about how to tackle painful subjects with grace and humor.

Kevin Scott recalls one particular day in Los Angeles when DJ AM changed the course of DJing forever. You’ll have to listen to find out what happened.

We also talk about a LOT of other DJs.

Don’t forget to leave us a review on iTunes, and send us a comment or suggest a future guest for Rebel Radio:
https://twitter.com/rebelradionet

https://www.facebook.com/rebelradionet

DJ AM helped DJs out of the corner and on to the stage

EXTRA SPECIAL 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY EPISODE. Today we bring you a special birthday treat: Lessons from one of the best in the business.

Never give up. That’s the lesson we get today from Dirtybird Records chief Claude VonStroke.

He’s a DJ, producer, label boss, and the leader of a tribe that trusts him to provide a full-service entertainment experience that includes events and merchandise.

The Dirtybird BBQ daylong cookout with DJs have become a favorite of fans around the country, and last year’s Dirtybird Campout took things up several notches — a weekend of grown-up summer camp activities in addition to music from Dirtybird DJs and friends. We’re talking tug-o-war and kayak races.

Josh stopped by the Dirtybird LA headquarters to learn the secrets to building a brand with such a devoted following, directly from CVS.

First, he never gave up. He failed multiple times along the way — as a rapper, a drum & bass DJ, in movie production — and bounced back each time, refining his vision and renewing his spirit. Things finally clicked when he launched the label a decade ago.

He also gives us some lessons in staying close to fins. He gives them exclusive access to him and his creations. He talked to them, and listens to their ideas and feedback.

All that and more in our blazing 1-year anniversary show.

Come back next week for the kickoff to year 2 and even more fire.

Claude VonStroke: How to breakthrough in the music business

DJ Spider isn’t just a great DJ; he makes it look fun too.

He preaches work-life balance: “I don't know how long term you can be burning up the clubs without burning up your life."

He makes hilarious videos, such as his Vine series Mag Life or the multi-million-view Whole Foods Parking Lot featuring DJ Dave.

He goes on tour with rockstars: Blink 182 this summer.

He starts social media firestorms in his spare time, like the viral hit Make DJing Great Again baseball caps.

In our interview, he gives some insights into building a serious career without taking it so seriously.

Check it out!

DJ Spider: How to make DJing great again

Bishop Lamont is here to teach us about perseverance.

As an up-and-coming rapper, he was discovered by Dr. Dre and signed to Aftermath Records, on his way to stardom.

That was 11 years ago. He got shelved, dropped, and had to reinvent his career and find another way. He released a series of mixtapes that kept him relevant in the streets while he could figure out how to navigate the business, soaking up game from folks like Dame Dash along the way. He relied on family and his martial arts training to get him through the toughest times.

On the eve of the release of his first album — The Reformation — Bishop brings us his tale of never giving up, of staying focused, and of learning to choose friends wisely.

He brings valuable lessons for those who would choose a creative path and those who would seek to create social change through business.

Get into it, and make sure you get a copy of The Reformation.

*EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/hip-hop/noah-north-goat

Bishop Lamont: How to be a street nerd and find tremendous courage

Bua blends hip hop, graffiti, and fine art in a way that’s completely unique. His painting, The DJ, is among the highest-selling posters of all time. I’m sure a lot of you have had it hanging in your bedrooms.

But Bua started out with everyone telling him he was no good. His teachers and friends urged him to give up painting. Good thing for us he didn’t listen.

He inched his way out of mediocrity, ignoring the critics at every step, working harder and harder to master his art.

That’s what it takes to be successful in any creative endeavor. Check out our interview for tips on developing a think skin, and knowing your lane.

So much good stuff here. Check it out now.

*EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/hip-hop/feeliit-gold

Bua: As an artist you have to evolve

Mr. Choc is a great DJ. You probably already know that. He’s been on Southern California airwaves and parties for over three decades.

He stops by the Rebel Radio studios to explain why DJing is a team sport. Choc has spent the last decade teaching new jacks both the skills and the culture, and has been a part of some of the most influential crews around, including the World Famous Beat Junkies and Skam Artist management.

Choc’s secret weapon: Don't dwell on anything that's going to bring you down. That and practice. Lots and lots of practice.

Check out the full interview here, and then head over to iTunes and leave us a review.

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with the:
- Bakaboyz: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/1st-draft-baka-boyz-project-091515
- Richard Vission: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/richard-vission

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/hip-hop/renz-young-a-northside-love-story

Mr. Choc: How to be a team player

Today’s guest has seen all sides of the music business. Erik Abel been an artist, producer, DJ, and most recently booking agent for folks like The Beatnuts, The Cool Kids, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, and DJ Quik. 

He stops by Rebel Radio to share some lessons he’s learned along the road, including: 

- what Chance the Rapper, Kid Rock, and Abba have in common

- why you shouldn’t drink all day and eat McDonald's

- how to get your money’s worth from a gym membership

He also tells us how he learned not to steal from Questlove.

So much more good stuff in this episode. Get it now before it’s gone.

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with Steve Rennie: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/renman-tells-you-how-to-get-the-money

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/trapmusic/asadi-throne

You have to be self centered because you have to put your art first. — With Erik Abel

If you’re in the hip hop business, you have to be down with A3C. Part festival, part conference, it’s been called hip hop’s family reunion. It’s part of the reason Atlanta is the culture’s capital.

Mike Walbert is A3C's executive director. On a recent trip to LA, he stopped by the Rebel Radio studios to give us the lowdown on what it’s like being at the center of hip hop culture in 2017.

He gives us some tips from his journey from college radio DJ to entrepreneur, and how he was inspired by SXSW to build something meaningful to the local community and beyond.

Mike's secrets to success:

- Take better notes. Write your ideas down.

- Use Hubspot. If you don’t know what that is, you better find out.

- Do your homework before you learn on the fly.

Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode!

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with rapper AMG: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/ep-5-rapper-amg-on-how-the-rap-game-is-all-a-show-but-he-had-fun-doing-it

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/hip-hop/hd-peso-prod-mvlik-bnjmn

Mike Walbert: How to get in sync with the culture

Luggage isn’t an industry you’d think of as ripe for disruption. Unless your name is Netta Shalgi.

Today’s guest set out to make a better suitcase. He started his journey 11 years ago with an idea and some design skills. Fast forward to last year, his G-Ro luggage launch raised over $4 million on Kickstarter. The first bags shipped at the end of the year. They’re dope.

Just making a cool bag with big as wheels wasn’t enough. Netta is out to build a brand that better suits the needs of modern travelers than the current options. 

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with Ryan Babenzien: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/ryan-babenzien 

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/thisisechelon/ronzel-arpyem-come-back-home-virginia-palmsVirginia Palms

Netta Shalgi: Why you actually need to reinvent the wheel

We caught up with DJ Will Clarke before he took the DoLab stage at Coachella, week 2.

He started playing clubs at 13 in his hometown of Bristol, UK, and then scored a residency at Kanya in Ibiza. He’s since built his own club brand and record label, Cut a Rug, and started making records with the Dirtybird crew, among others.

In our brief sit-down, we got a little insight into what motivates Will: "the reason why I do it is so that people just have the best time ever.” We also picked up on how he’s been able to let go of control (a little) and how he handles his social media (spoiler: that’s the one thing he won’t let go of).

Make sure you check our other episodes from Coachella 2017, featuring Sofi Tukker and DoLab founder Jesse Flemming:
- https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/sofi-tukker-how-to-be-an-ambassador-for-joy
- https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/dolabs-jesse-flemming-how-to-do-it-without-a-plan

Check out the episode and make sure you check out our sponsor www.blueapron.com/REBEL

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/type91/tyler-roper-impulse

DJ Will Clarke: How to make sure people have the best time ever

Jay Shetty took a break from getting millions of video views to come talk to us about making wisdom go viral.

He calls himself a former monk who is now spreading love and wisdom through the internet. He’s actually a former rapper who became a monk.

As you might expect, the wisdom comes nonstop in this episode. Lots of quotes you’re going to want to write down and put on your wall. Here’s one about overcoming failure:

"Every time I fail, I say to myself, 'This is only going to make the story better.'"


Get it here…

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with Richard Greene: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/richard-greene-how-to-do-what-you-love-part-1

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/lavish/tok-sik-peace-of-mind-ft-kannon-and-alef

Jay Shetty: How to work at the pace of love

You might know that EDM.com is a co-presenter of Rebel Radio. You might have clicked on this episode because they told you to.

This week, co-founder of the site and their label Ethan Baer joins us to put us up on his journey, from discovering electronic music to innovating the music business.

He tells us how artists should be thinking about connecting with fans in a business driven by streaming, and how he’s adapted to the changing demands of leadership as he builds his company.

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with Dave Weiner: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/how-to-get-on-forbes-cash-kings-list-according-to-dave-weiner

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/firstedition/double-drop-hey-puppy

EDM.com's Ethan Baer: Learn to love learning

Bella Fiasco is a great name for a DJ, and she's a great DJ. Great enough to get the stamp of approval from the World Famous Beat Junkies.

She took a break from playing hot parties and dropping mixtapes to tell us what it's like making her was as a woman in DJ culture. Hint: It ain't easy, but it's getting better.

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with Mr. Choc: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/mr-choc-how-to-be-a-team-player

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/hip-hop/j-nolan-evolve

Bella Fiasco: How to beat the stereotypes

THREE YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL LIVE EPISODE:

Ali Shaheed Muhammad is a hero of mine, maybe yours too.

First of all, there’s the music. The music of A Tribe Called Quest. If don’t know Low End Theory, put down this podcast and go listen to that. We’ll wait. Then there’s the music of Lucy Pearl, of D’Angelo, the co-productions with Dilla, and lately the collab with Adrian Younge on the music for Marvel’s Luke Cage.

But then there’s the man himself. Humble, worldly, introspective. As you’ll see in our interview, he has a special combination of being willing to say something of value and not being too in love with his own ideas. Maybe that’s why he’s one of the best collaborators hip hop has ever known. Oh, he’s also an amazing DJ, and host of the incredible podcast: Microphone Check.

We got Ali on stage at the LA Times Festival of Books: Newstory. This episode was filmed in front of a live audience. And it’s a good one.

If you liked this episode, check out our 2nd year anniversary interview with Zen Freeman: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/zen-freeman-how-to-give-people-what-they-actually-want

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/your_secret/synymata-and-miss-mary-frost-douglaswastaken-remix

Ali Shaheed Muhammad: We're doing our own thing

So many good lessons in this one. So many that we cut it into two parts.

You may know Bosko from his work with E-40, or Kanye. He’s an old friend and a great producer. I was his manager for a few years in the 90s and we made my first record deal together.

This week, we talk about perfectionism and the power of deadlines. We talk about how hard it is to have open communication, especially when you’re young. We talk about learning to pivot when things don’t go according to plan, and learning when to take the money and keep it moving.

Make sure you come back next week and hear what Bosko is up to now. He’s launching a tech startup. Exciting stuff.

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with AMG: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/ep-5-rapper-amg-on-how-the-rap-game-is-all-a-show-but-he-had-fun-doing-it

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/chill/fivel-stay-in-tonight

Bosko: How to coach yourself (or find a coach)

Another episode in our Artwork Rebels series in partnership with Guerilla One and co-host Eddie Donaldson.

Few people have has as big an impact on culture as DJ Muggs. His group Cypress Hill not only sold millions of records all over the world, it also played a central role in bringing weed to the forefront of cultural conversation. And it brought rap and rock collaborations further into the mainstream. AND he produced “Jump Around.” Nuff said.

Eddie and I get into it with Muggs at his studio and take lessons from the master.

If you liked this episode, check out our interview with AMG: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/ep-5-rapper-amg-on-how-the-rap-game-is-all-a-show-but-he-had-fun-doing-it

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/chill/sendhelp-speechless-ft-mira-lo

Cypress Hill's DJ Muggs: Slow down and get more done

Ana Kasparian is a host of The Young Turks — the #1 online news channel — and of her own podcast #NOFILTER. We quickly learned that she's a source of wisdom and incredible energy.

Ana joined us on stage at The Ace Hotel to kick off our new series: Rebel Radio LIVE at the Ace Hotel (clever title, no?).

Joined by friends and fans, we talked about politics, culture, and how she finds the energy to get up everyday and fight for truth. Join us for this one, and make sure you're signed up at www.rebelradio.net to learn about upcoming live tapings and never miss an episode.​

If you liked this one, check out our interview with Laura Cathcart Robbins: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/laura-cathcart-robbins-how-to-be-the-only-one-in-the-room

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/thisisechelon/miles-away-and-marcus-james-together-alone

Ana Kasparian of The Young Turks: Do something crazy because it feels right

Seems like we're having a lot of techno these days!

Sian is a DJ, producer, founder of Octopus Recordings. In other words, he's a busy man. Quiet as kept, he's not content with just making people dance. In our interview he talks about his plans to move beyond the standard club and festival route and build a proper touring act.

Join us and find out how he makes it all happen.

If you liked this one, check out our interview with Will Clarke: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/dj-will-clarke-how-to-make-sure-people-have-the-best-time-ever

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/ivoryoasis/ecotek-by-your-side

Sian: Focus on what matters

Join us for another ARTWORK REBELS episode in partnership with Guerilla One.

Dave Navarro has done it all. He was a founding member of Jane's Addiction and then played with Red Hot Chili Peppers and then started his own bands Panic Channel and Royal Machine. He's been a TV host and a podcaster and a documentary filmmaker. He married Carmen Electra.

Dave came by the studio with our occasional co-host Eddie Donaldson to talk about his newest project Life After Death: A street art persona that allows Dave to express his creativity, dig into politics, and address issues that affect all of us in modern living.

We talk about some heavy shit in this episode. Also some non-heavy shit. Basically a lot of talking shit.

If you liked this one, check out our interview with RETNA: https://bit.ly/2OqOJuZ

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/hip-hop/a-cross-pain-feat-xone-white

Dave Navarro: How to remain teachable

James Andrews is the definition of a hustler. He moves with ease through music, technology, investment circles — collecting and connecting.

He came through the studio to shed light on the launch of his new venture: The Authenticated, which is part members-only social network, part brand advisor and startup factory. He shares some great stories from his journey and helps us understand how hip hop has impacted business as much as it has culture, and how you can launch a startup the way you would break a record.

Learn more about The Authenticated, and possibly even apply for membership, here: https://theauthenticated.mn.co/

If you liked this one, check out our interview with AJ Bertenshaw: https://soundcloud.com/rebel_radio/2-reasons-serato-will-blow-your-mind-again

EDM.com Track of the Week: https://soundcloud.com/thisisechelon/m11-more-than-friends

James Andrews: Hip hop is the way we do business

Rebel Radio is brought to you in partnership with EDM.com

The Art of Selling Without Selling Out.

Rebel Radio shines a light on cultural pioneers and their influences, reflecting on the roots and future of underground culture. We engage the influencers who define what we wear, watch, listen to, and play with — and how we spend our spare time and loose change — and explore what it means to be a creative entrepreneur today. 

Our weekly interview show explores the journeys of those who do it best in all areas of youth culture. We learn how they stay creative in the face of relentless distract and setbacks. How they make something where previously nothing existed, how they find inspiration and influence, as well as how they inspire and influence others, and what it takes to create movements.

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