Lineage:
This word comes with so many meanings and teachings in what I do. The lineage in music, especially black music, is fundamental in learning and becoming apart of the music. I have found that studying records has taught me more than any class, teacher, or peer. Not to say that all of these methods of learning aren't important, because they are, but more to say that one cannot go without listening. At first, like many, I wasn't sure where to start. But I soon realized that every musician, even the masters, have those they have inspired, but also those who inspired them. As a musician, if you can start to follow these waves of influence, you begin to find a clear lineage quickly. These descendants are also not subjugated by genera and are somewhat infinite. Lastly, because I am a white person submerged in black culture, knowing how sacred the lineage is and what role it plays within the music, is critical to me not stealing from it.

Respect:
Often I have the realization that a record store is much like a graveyard and I'm sifting through the lives of people who have passed. Its mind blowing to think that in most cases a piece of wax holds all the musical energy of someone once they are gone. Some end up being buried rarely to be heard again, while others get picked up and handled by the next generation. That means when I sample these records I always try to hold a lot of respect around the musician/musicians whose career goes into helping me create my music.

Love:
I receive so much love and happiness from music every day; sometimes it even feels unfair! Giving back to the music is something I'm always trying to improve. I have found a few principles that work for me but am always looking for more:

Always put love into your music for others to hear, and feel,
Teach what's been taught to you,
share music,
and never stop listening!


Music producer/beatmaker Vs. DJ:
People generally assume, especially when talking about hip-hop, that producers are DJs are interchangeable. That is not true. Many of the times producers are also DJs, but each is its own particular skill and incredibly hard to do at a high level. Especially when talking about vinyl DJing which is quickly being replaced with the computer!