DJ Ron Slomowicz: Am I correct that you are based in Phoenix, Arizona? How did you end up down there?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: Yes, I'm based in Scottsdale, Arizona. While being syndicated on ABC Radio's "The Touch," an urban format radio show which I did a mixshow on, I decided to relocate to Arizona to start a remix service, called Powerhouse Records. Andy Starr of the Hot Mix Radio Network was based in Scottsdale, Arizona and I made the move to start this new record label, back in 1992.
RS: Where have you been? What has inspired your reemergence to the dance world?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: I felt like I had accomplished quite a bit and decided to make other career moves. After being away from music I began to miss writing, producing, and remixing music as well as DJing in the context of how one can bring euphoria to an audience. I have a theory of how music can be played and by building energy and sustaining it, one can captivate an audience and create an atmosphere of its own. I guess I can honestly say that music is my calling in life!
RS: I noticed that Trax is making a comeback as well - along with the Chicago park music festivals. Do you think Chicago house is getting a new respect locally?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: Since Chicago house music is being recognized globally, it seems that Chicago has finally understood that the birth of house music happened in its own backyard. They seem to now realize that this genre has influenced the dance music world and shaped it as to what it is today.
RS: How do you describe the sound of your new album - From Above?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: My forthcoming album has several trance / rave influenced tracks, as well as several hard progressive house tracks. It has two different dance music feels to it, as it is a bit diverse.
RS: When will it be released?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: The release date is tentatively set for November '04.
RS: Describe your song writing process.
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: I use a technique called channeling. It's hard to describe, but it's a way where I feel for the music, as well as the lyrics. I use PC software to transpose these concepts into my songs.
RS: What's your favorite piece of software?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: I actually prefer several programs, as I don't have a favorite. They are Acid Pro, Cubase, and Reason. These are probably the main programs that I use.