DJ Ron Slomowicz: Did you start as a producer or a remixer?
Nick Fiorucci: Actually both. Originally, I started as DJ but had some musical training and started to produce some of my own original tracks as well as remix some tunes especially for my first "official" redident club gig and it just grew from there.
RS: Then, how did you start DJing?
Nick: Started doing elementary (grade) school dances when I was around 12 years old and never looked back.
RS: Where in Toronto did you first hear dance music?
Nick: On a K-Tel TV commercial for Rick Dee's "Disco Duck" album when I was around 10!
RS: You attended the TREBAS Institute, what did you learn in school that has most helped you in music industry?
Nick: Well, the theory was informative but the truth is you really learn by trial and error and hands-on experience.
RS: And you are using your expertise right now at Hi-Bias records; what exactly do you do there?
Nick: Question is... "What don't I do?" Actually, I'm a very hands-on guy and do whatever needs to be done. My love of course is production and the creative side of the business but I'll do anything and everything needed from finding and developing the artists, producing them, designing each release from the ground up - then overseeing marketing, promotion, sales, distribution, etc.
RS: What projects are coming this way from Hi-Bias?
Nick: We're continuing our very successful "Trip In..." compilation series, and we have several new ones on the horizon including an "Ibiza World Tour" House compilation, Retro Active 3 and many more. Check out our site for details http://www.hibias.ca/
RS: Who else works with you at Hi-Bias?
Nick: Well, there three of us essentially full-time (Myself, Alex and Karen), and then we have our producers on staff (Joey, Taras, Kenny)
RS: What has been your biggest selling record at Hi-Bias?
Nick: I would have to say "Get Into The Music" by DJs Rule (our very first 12" single release)
RS: I notice that a few of your singles, namely Wilde and Gipsy are starting to make waves in the US. What are your plans for Hi-Bias records in the US?
Nick: It is definately our plans to conquer the U.S. this year. We're currently in the midst of hiring a full-time promoter and representive there, and our "Trip In..." compilations have already come out domestically in the US through Universal/Water and we plan expanding our distribution as well.
RS: Who exactly is Gipsy?
Nick: Gipsy is essentially Phil Fuldner collaborating with Nosie Katzmann (Jam & Spoon) and Moguai from Germany.
RS: You said "I groom the artist, produce them, then press, package, release, market and promote the music." What do you look for when you are searching for a new artist?
Nick: First and foremost - talent, then star quality and originality.
RS: With original artists you do full production, how do you approach production as opposed to remixing?
Nick: With production, generally you start with a composition and you record and create everything from the ground up. With remixes, it is generally the same except you have an a capella and existing melody to work with of which you build a new track around.
RS: What is you favorite piece of studio gear?
Nick: Wow, that's a tough question cause I have so many but if I had to pick one - I'd have to say my Akai MPC3000.
RS: You are doing a lot of remixes lately.. is this a new direction you are following?
Nick: Well, I've been fortunate to be busy doing remixes but I really enjoy original productions the most so I guess I will continue to do both.