Everyone loves a good musical mash-up and Jaguar Skills is one of the most notable ‘mash-up’ artists in the UK and currently has a 10 minute mix every week on BBC Radio 1′s The Trevor Nelson Show.
1. Do you have to practice daily to retain your ninja skills?
Yes. I try and do – at least – 3 press ups a day and jog, from my bedroom, next door, to my studio, as much as I can….maybe twice a day.
2. What are the top 3 qualities a ninja has?
a: you have to wear a mask.
b: you have to have watched a lot of 80′s ninja movies.
c: And I guess, learn some ninja moves from someone…which I haven’t bothered to do yet. Cos I’m not a ninja.
3. Do you think they relate to your lightning fast mixing?
Not much.
4. Do you think your true identity will be revealed? Do you have a contingency plan?
I wear ANOTHER mask, under my mask. Just in case.
5. You’re playing in Birmingham as part of your Smash Up Tour, what will the gigs be like on the tour?
I wanna try a few new ideas on the tour, maybe go a little more left-field than I normally do. And I wanna do a couple of classic radio mixes, live, which I’ve never done before….can’t wait!
6. What does it feel like contributing so many mixes to BBC Radio 1? It’s such an institution, do they leave you alone to just get on with it and do it your way?
Radio One have been super-supportive of my stuff. And I love doing the mixes. And yeah, mostly, I get to do what I want. Pretty much all the time really. The only times when they get involved is either they want me to do a special mix, like the History of Drum & Bass, or it’s when I’ve forgotten to cut some cuss words out…..but other than that…it’s all me.
7. Finally, what are your top tips for anyone wanting to be a DJ/producer?
Focus, work hard, never give up and be patient. Plus you’ve got to LOVE it. Oh, and look UP when you’re DJing…that’s important. And with that nugget, I’m off…..HooOOOOOO!!!! x
