So, 6mil 2headphones – what’s that all about?
It refers to my former life, when I did a construction job in London. I used to work with a stone material called 6mil. The album title tries to capture my transition from laying 6mil to becoming a DJ.
How did that happen then?
Originally my elder brother was a DJ and he had the equipment in the house. When he wasn’t using it, I started messing about with it and started making tapes for friends and found it was a pretty good way of making a living.
Which track on the new album is a guaranteed floor filler?
A track called ‘Saxy Mofoe’, which I was very proud of upon finishing. It’s made it onto compilation albums and has been played by some famous DJs. I consider it my best work.
What do you get out of it?
Seeing people dance and feeling their energy feels great.
What do you bring to a remix track?
Some artists remix using the instruments and arrangements from the original but I only ask for the vocals. Everything you hear in the song is being played by me except the original vocals.
You prefer to create something from scratch then.
Creating an original is always much more fun, simply because with a remix you have to finish what you started and you have a deadline to meet. You can take your time with originals and do it at your own pace, which is what I prefer.
You’re the resident DJ at Dubai’s Zinc, do you think DJ’s in the UAE have enough opportunities?
In general, the resident DJs in the UAE are doing quite well considering the amount of nightclubs there are. Every DJ gets to work alongside some famous names because the clubs bring in superstars so often.
But if you could DJ anywhere, where would it be?
Definitely El Divino in Ibiza – which I consider to be the Mecca for DJs. I hope to fulfill that dream by the end of the year since I’ve already been booked to perform there in late July.
If you weren’t a DJ, what would you be?
Definitely a chef! Cooking is my second passion. I think in the future, my aim is to have my own nightclub/restaurant in which I’ll cook the food and perform as well.
Greg Stainer launches new album 6mil 2headphones at Level Lounge (02 616 6122) on April 17, 7pm. Free entry for women, Dhs50 for men
