A favorite of the Brooklyn Bar Weekend Scene, DJ Andy Crush is serving all the summer sonic sweetness.
Thotyssey: Hello Andy, how has your summer been so far?
Andy Crush: Hi! I’ve had a great summer–kind of a whirlwind one, if I’m being honest. Had two weddings (I love love), and was travelling a good bit. Now I’m looking forward to being in the city and going to the beach as much as possible.
Have you ever DJed a beach party before?
In a way, yes, actually. It wasn’t at a beach, but it was a beach themed rooftop party. Does that count?
Absolutely! How long have you been a DJ now, and a New Yorker?
I’ve been DJing for about three years, and in New York for just over seven now.
You’re a true New Yorker no matter what JLo says, lol.
Aw thanks, New York is certainly home for me now!
Where are you from originally, and was music always a part of your life?
I’m origionally from Pittsburgh. And yes, music has always been a big part of my life– kind of in different ways. I played the violin in orchestra as a kid, and was really into classical music and rock. My music tastes have obviously expanded since; discovering new music has been a consistent joy of mine.
How did DJing happen for you, and how might you describe your sound in the booth today?
It’s a fun story. I threw a Halloween party, and went insane creating a six hour playlist that flowed together well. My friend was a DJ and said, “well, that’s basically being a DJ.” So he took me under his wing… and the next party we both DJed, and the rest is history pretty much.
My sound today draws a lot from deep and classic house. Really, if it’s anything with a strong groove that’s either hot, fun or sexy, I’m putting it on. Of course I mix in the pop girlies, too.
There’s some recent discourse that everyone else in nightlife wants to be a DJ now: the bar staff, the gogo boys, event promoters and producers, the drag performers, etc.! Do you observe that to be true… and if so, why do you think that’s happening?
I have gotten “well, everyone’s a DJ now” a couple times recently… so at least people think it’s true. Why? I’m not sure. It is a rush to play music like that, and maybe people want to get in on it. I say, if you’ve got a vision and the heart and the little bit of crazy it takes, I’m all ears.
What are your thoughts on Confessions II? From my POV, it’s been really fascinating to see the Very Young Folx discover Madonna through this particular album.
I think it’s fantastic. It’s so fresh, and just… giving me what I need right now. She’s iconic for doing all that. It kinda woke me up to something, so I hope it’s doing the same for the Very Young Folx (if you’re getting into Madonna now, go stream Ray of Light). Thank you, Madonna.
You and Tasheff will be spinning a Madonna-centric party hosted by Janelle No. 5 at The Rosemont this Friday!
Yes we are! Finally, the long awaited Andy Crush / Tasheff crossover is happening at The Rosemont. There’s obviously going to be a ton of Madonna, the classics, the deep cuts, the remixes, and then what ever else might fit in. We both give really high energy, and I personally love the vibe at The Rosemont… so it’s gonna be a crazy night for sure. I’d say to expect a good amount of fog, a lot of dancing, and making some moves on the dance floor… that’s what it’s about.
What else is coming up for you?
I’ve got Sexx Dreams at Metro on Saturday, and an all night set back at the Rosemont the following Thursday. Aside from that, I’ll keeping playing my music and enjoying this rather fab summer in NYC!
Okay lastly… do you have any “secret weapon” tracks that you know will always slay the kids on the dancefloor?
Oh I have a couple. So one thing about me, I love a dance remix of early / mid 2000’s songs, and lately the Evenity remix of “You Make Me Feel” by Cobra Starship has really been hitting the spot. I’ve literally heard people scream when they recognize the song. Love when that happens!
Thanks, Andy!
Check Thotyssey’s calendar for DJ Andy Crush’s upcoming appearances, and follow him on Instagram and SoundCloud.
Thotyssey 