May 30, 2013 NYC
Over the last few months, burn Residency – sponsored by burn energy drink – has offered aspiring young DJs the opportunity of a lifetime, the chance to earn one of three season long residencies in Ibiza. Last week, the final 18 contestants arrived on the island where they were enrolled in an intensive two week bootcamp program comprised of master-classes from this year’s DJ mentors, technical lectures from industry partners, challenges and various opportunities to perform live throughout the fortnight.
Kick-starting the week the contestants were given their first challenge, participating in a live mix off, which saw each DJ on the decks with just a 15 minute slot to impress with their skills. Judged by Michelle Owen from Pioneer and with burn’s head mentor Valentino Barrioseta there to oversee proceedings the stakes were high as the evening’s winner would secure a place in the final 6.
In another highlight of burn Residency the DJs attended the IMS, where they rubbed shoulders with some of the Industry’s greatest talent, both in front and behind the scenes.
‘always make sure you are] having 20 percent more fun than your crowd. You have to lead by example.’ Fatboy Slim
So far three of the burn Residency mentors have joined the contestants, all on hand to deliver masterclasses to cover every aspect of production and the life as a DJ. First up – Fatboy Slim, who besides leading a demonstration on how to create a killer mix, shared his top tips for success in the form of eight main rules, encompassing everything from self-image (Cook famously performs barefoot) to the importance of connecting with your audience.
Following their time with Fatboy Slim the contestants were then whisked away to the exclusive Legend’s dinner at Cipriani’s where they saw him honoured with the IMS Legend Award.
Next up to sit down with the DJs are mentors Solomun and Joe Goddard (Hot Chip, 2 Bears), bringing their years of production experience to the sessions. Solomun lent his expert guidance on the contestant’s own productions whilst Goddard gave a crucial and rare insight into the creation of many of his most famous records, as well as a sneak peak of some new music.
‘It was good to be involved in the Masterclass and work with the up and coming producers and DJ’s at the burn Residency.’ Joe Goddard (Hot Chip, 2 Bears)
With bootcamp now well under way things are really heating up. This week the next wave of mentors, Avicii, Steve Lawler and Maceo Plex, will be flying into the island to join the DJs, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and for two contestants an unbelievable opportunity that will be revealed soon!
For these 18 aspiring DJs the wait is nearly over with just a few more days to go until they will find out who will be awarded the coveted residencies at Sankeys, Café Mambo and Privilege. In an exciting twist this Friday 31st May burn Residency will be taking over the airwaves at Sonica FM where they will be cut to the final 6 live on air! Broadcasting live from 11am, make sure you tune in to find out who will make it through and catch sets from all 6 finalists.
