DJ DX
DJ DX, born Robert Van Liew, has seen all sides of the hip-hop game. He was exposed to music from a young age thanks to his producer uncle, and escaped his rough childhood through hip-hop. DJ DX started out as a blend mixtape DJ but eventually became a full-fledged songwriter and rapper after discovering his ability to write clever yet unpretentious and straightforward lyrics.
The turntablist and producer blends modern beats and classical sounds to tell old-school tales inspired by his real life growing up in the hood, from his mother's struggle with drug addiction to his father's life in and out of prison, and by his everyday experiences as an adult.
The father of two recently released a concept album called "The Unfortunate Child," inspired by his old struggles, and is working on new solo material.
DJ DX has also remixed and produced many reggaeton hits throughout Puerto Rico and Latin America as well as the Dominican Republic. His original solo songs have a strong following in the United States and Europe.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Started from Blend Mix tapes, remixing and producing hit remixes all over the world and having my mix tapes bootlegged and duplicated overseas. In 2011 i started to write and compose my own songs and today here i am. In 2007 i also became the first African American to work with Reggaeton Artist. To date i have 2 official studio albums, and working on the release of my 3rd.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
Yes, It's the best feeling in the world to me. It gives me a chance to display my art and talents to new and existing fans. I have preformed in various places in the tri state area.
Your musical influences
Tupac Shakur, Ray Charles, Christopher Wallace, Christopher Rios, James Brown.
What equipment do you use?
Technique 1210 Turntables, Akai 2000XL MPC, M-Audio Keyboards, Adobe Audition
Anything else?
God Bless to all.
