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interview DJ Starline  (February 2009) | Interview By: Jonathan Hay

   After gaining inspiration from some of the greats, DJ Starline decided to pursue a full-forced career into the art of the spin-world. Against all odds, Starline dove into the art head first, but it was her persistence and sheer determination that led her to connect with some of the most prestigious DJ’s in the world, including Bad Boy records DJs, Fleet DJs, and Future Star DJs, among others.

Dubcnn catches up with this Queens native as she leads us through her journey into sound and onto putting A Woman’s Touch on the turntables.

DJ Starline speaks with Dubcnn as part of “A Woman’s Touch,” a special Dubcnn series created to shine light on some key players of the female gender who have shaken our world of hip-hop and urban music -- and made it a better place.

As ever, be sure to leave your feedback in our forums or email them to haywire@dubcnn.com.

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Interview was done in February 2009

Questions Asked By: Jonathan Hay

DJ Starline Gave Dubcnn.com A Special Shoutout! Check That Here
 
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DJ Starline Interview
A Woman’s Touch (The Special Dubcnn Series)
By: Jonathan Hay & Sabrina
www.djstarline.com
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Dubcnn: You decided to pursue DJing as a serious career after watching videos of DJ AM and A-Trak; what was it, exactly, about their performances that inspired you to delve whole-heartedly into the art?

After the skill that they showcased, it was definitely the passion that both of them had when performing. It was cool to see all the scratching and juggling A-Trak was doing, but also the performance technique AM brings to each of his parties, the entertainment factor of the art. At the time, I saw myself wanting to do the same thing and went for it -- I didn’t hold back.


Dubcnn: What sets you apart from other female DJ’s in the game?

I don’t want to knock down any other females, that’s definitely not my intention here. I can only say that my work ethic and professionalism could probably set me apart from anybody in general. I stay focused in everything I do and do it to the fullest with detail. I know what I want and what I’m here for, strictly business. (Laughing)


Dubcnn: How did growing up in Queens influence your fingertips on the tables?

My cousins were a main factor of my love for music. Growing up in Queens means growing up with them. Music shows, competitions, and awards were the TV lineup at the house, so I would watch, learn, and explore. Growing up in Queens is definitely a blessing when we’ve had so many talented people come out successful. It’s definitely on the back of my mind to continue the QNZ legacy and do it up!


Dubcnn: You moved to Florida in 2001. How did your musical influence sway, develop or change in your move from NY to Florida?

It definitely developed in Florida, but at first, my musical taste didn’t change much. I was 13-year old girl obsessed with the Backstreet Boys and N*Sync (Laughing). Once I started getting older and started seeing what else was out there, the other musical influences began to develop. I give Florida the props for introducing me to the dirty south movement and rock music. I still do stick to my North hip-hop and house music too.


Dubcnn: You attended the Scratch DJ Academy in 2006; what was the most interesting thing about that experience?

There’s so many. They let us spin at gigs and meet the most renown DJ’s of our time. What was most interesting about the program and the most beneficial was learning every skill you needed to know about DJ-ing from 15-year vets in [only] six weeks! I remember the head instructor, Jamie, saying that “it took me about five years to get down basic BPM-ing and scratching; you guys are learning all the secrets in two weeks.” Each DJ there had their own story and style, it was awesome!


Dubcnn: As a woman growing up in Queens, what is something you had to learn real fast?

You’re out on your own, kid! You must grow up fast to survive in such a fast-paced city like New York.


Dubcnn: What type of people did you tend to migrate towards as a young woman? How has this shaped your life and defined your character?

I have always been drawn to people who have goals, aspirations, and positivity. I love networking and learning, so having people around me who are assertive and knowledgeable is essential to me. I’ve been lucky, to this day, to have people around me who are always looking out and are there for the best intentions. I owe it to those people who are well-grounded for my self-confidence and drive, thanks!


Dubcnn: Any defining moments of your life you can particularly remember?

Absolutely, the day I decided to do things that make me happy! I’m living my life on a positive note nowadays, doing things for me and not someone else. It’ll eventually drive you insane if you don’t live for your inner peace.


Dubcnn: What advice can you give to any young girls living in that same area of New York?

I tell girls all the time to dream big -- know what you want -- and turn them all into a reality. Work hard. Live strong. Stay humble.


Dubcnn: How much time do you spend in Ybor City?

Not much time, like 4-7 times a year.


Dubcnn: Being that 2 Pistols is from the Tampa Bay Area, [Tarpon Springs] have you had the chance to work with him?

No, but wouldn’t mind working with him though.


Dubcnn: What do you think about T.I. and his upcoming prison sentence?

I love T.I., but if you do the crime, you gotta do the time. I wish him the best.


Dubcnn: Who has the hottest song out right now?

I would have to say Lady Gaga. I’ve been bumping “Just Dance” since June and it never fails. I’m glad it’s finally gone mainstream and killing the radio.


Dubcnn: How do you feel about American Idol?

I haven’t watched recently, but I feel that’s it’s a good outlet for bringing new talent to the industry.


Dubcnn: Finish the Sentence…

Dubcnn: People might be surprised to know that I…
…Still watch the Power Puff Girls. I’m buying the box set tomorrow. (Laughing)


Dubcnn: When I woke up this morning, my first thought was…

…Thank you, Lord, for another day of life.


Dubcnn: If I wasn’t DJing, I’d be…

…doing video/audio engineering like I do regularly.


Dubcnn: I was the most star struck standing beside…

…Travis Barker, I was speechless at first.


Dubcnn: I would give my left leg to meet…

…Christina Aguilera and Eminem.


Dubcnn: A Woman’s Touch makes everything better because…

…it’s full of compassion and dedication.


Dubcnn: The most dangerous situation I’ve ever been in was…

…when I was sitting in a tree stand with a 300 pound black bear [standing] twelve yards away -- I was filming in Alaska.


Dubcnn: The best place to eat in Tampa is…

…Mema’s Alaskan Tacos, my new spot! So I guess I will be in Ybor more often! (Laughing)


Dubcnn: The best thing about growing up in New York was…

…the culture/atmosphere.


Dubcnn: The thing men misunderstand about woman the most is…

…that we’re as strong as they are!


Dubcnn: You are affiliated with Bad Boy records DJs, Fleet DJs, and Future Star DJs, among others. Literally speaking, what would you say you bring to the table in these associations?

I bring knowledge and ideas to move ahead. I bring camaraderie by wanting to collaborate with my fellow DJs and support them.


Dubcnn: What projects are you currently working on?

I guess it’s appropriate to say, I am working on an all-female mixtape with the other females of the Fleet DJs. I also have things in the works with indie artists, Ben Jacobs, Heat, and Two Five. Look out!


Dubcnn: Since this is part of A Woman’s Touch series, do you have any final words for the woman in our community?

We have to stick together in this “man’s world” and continue being strong and supportive of each other. Keep your head up!






 


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www.djstarline.com


DJ Starline Gave Dubcnn.com A Special Shoutout! Check That Here
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