RS: Seeing as you were one of the innovators of bringing dance music onto the radio, what do you think of the current state of dance music on commercial radio?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: I see a lot of dance stations putting mixes on the air, just to be playing a mix. I feel that they are missing out on what keeps an audience enthralled, as a mix itself is not the answer. It must be well constructed to keep the audience, and achieve a total experience for the listener. I've been syndicated three times and have been on over 100 stations each time, and I feel that if dance radio was more organized we might just break it through more to the masses. Here in Arizona, we have a dance station that doesn't seem to be interested in artists with a track record of national success. Stations like this have so much to gain by seeking out the ones who have made it, for their advice and consultation. This is why I feel that some of these small dance stations will probably always stay small because of their closed minded thinking.
RS: Do you think satellite / internet radio is the answer?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: Satellite Radio, in my opinion will take over dance radio, at least the majority of it. They are going after who's "in the know" and having professionals advise them. They are making a conscious effort to stay on top of what's going on in the industry. Internet radio is exciting, as it offers a way to catch your favorite radio stations globally. Whether at work or at home, I think Internet radio is an exciting way to listen to your favorite dance music.
RS: How did you get involved with Sirius Satellite Radio?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: Marcus McBride, who is a DJ on the Super Mix Radio show, referred me. I sent in a demo and they accepted me on the Remix Channel 62. I had a warm eMail from SIRIUS Radio recently giving me many thanks for being there. This is what makes DJing so rewarding, being acknowledged for your work.
RS: WBMX was an urban station that helped build the dance scene in Chicago. Why do you think that urban stations these days have little love for house music?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: Hip Hop has always had the money behind it. I've always felt that if house music had the money that is spent on Hip Hop, we would be seeing house music in the mainstream. Artists would be recording different styles of music with a house influence. Music always changes as nothing stays the same. Sooner or later, I feel that house music will run its course in being accepted in many circles.
RS: Are you doing a DJ tour with this new album?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: I plan on kicking off the LP this Fall by touring in support of it. We are currently lining up dates as we speak. Steve Ratz at sratz@juno.com is handling all of my bookings.
RS: As one of the master turntablists - are you a strictly vinyl guy when you play live?
Mickey “Mixin” Oliver: I prefer vinyl, as it's nice to work the turntables like they are instruments. The average patron at events likes to see one manipulating turntables as it adds to one's live freeform techniques.