Meet Brett: 22 Years of DJing and Decades Behind a Camera Too
Brett never planned on DJing. Mates kept telling him he had the records, and 22 or so years later he's played weekenders across the UK and Europe, run a residency on Voices Radio in London, and broadcasts today on Mixcloud via Kelham Central Radio, Sheffield, alongside his own Into Somethin' nights.
We caught up with him ahead of the weekender to talk film photography, a rare Mexican 7", and what 46 years of visiting Manchester has taught him.
When did you start DJing?
Around 22/23 years ago. I did a few things in Manchester and Leeds, and it kind of spread from there. I remember not being remotely interested in doing it, but mates would say "you've got the records". I've since played weekenders across the UK and Europe, radio appearances, and a two-year residency on Voices Radio in London. Today I broadcast on Mixcloud via Kelham Central Radio, Sheffield, and run my own club nights under the Into Somethin' banner.
Other than records, what else are you into?
My other major passion is film photography, which I've practiced for decades. I enjoy developing and printing my own work, and I've been published in the odd magazine. I do enjoy digital, but as with music, I grew up in an analogue world.
What do you like about Manchester?
I've been visiting Manchester since the early 1980s, like the Ric-Tic Revue all-dayer at the Ritz in 1983. The city has changed so much in all those 46 years, and for the better. It's become a cosmopolitan city, and that's reflected in its culture and nightlife. For me, it's second only to London.
Best recent record buy?
A recent highlight was a limited Japanese jazz release by the Shinsuke Fujieda Group that quickly sold out and is already highly sought after. On the soul side, I recently picked up a rare Mexican 7" from the early 1970s, featuring my favourite version of Soulful Strut. Expect to hear it at the weekender.
Most memorable night as a DJ or a punter?
As a punter, discovering the rare soul scene at Clifton Hall in the early 1980s was unforgettable. As a DJ, playing Soul Essence in Great Yarmouth remains a career highlight. I've also had the good fortune to play my records in seven different countries, including cities like Berlin, Gothenburg, Stockholm, Vienna, Hamburg and Aachen.
I'd say more than anything it's about meeting and seeing legendary artists such as Ray Charles, JJ Barnes, Lou Ragland, Darrow Fletcher, The Masqueraders, Don Gardner, Prince Phillip Mitchell, Joe Bataan, The Nu-Rons, The Funk Brothers, and many more. Being able to pay respect to these wonderful people behind this cherished music is a joy.
See you in Manchester, Brett!
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