Exclusive Interview with DJ Lead

Siam2nite had the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with DJ Lead, shortly before his performance at Seenspace on 10th March.

You are Japan’s #1 Hip Hop DJ and referred to as the “King of Japan”. In 2009 DJ Enuff - President of the “Heavy Hitters” DJ crew and Biggie Smalls’ original DJ - asked you to join the Heavy Hitters as the first and only Japanese DJ in the group. How did you get in touch with Hip Hop in the first place?

I was born and raised in Kyoto Japan, which is the old capital city. It's like Rome in Japan. There are more than 200 temples.

I met Hip Hop at my cousin’s house. He always listened Hip Hop and Rock and Roll when I was schoolchild. That was when I met Hip Hop.

You have released several Mix-CDs with DJ Enuff and the original track “Live My Dreams” – the track went to the top of Japanese iTunes charts beating out Lil’Wayne and Nicki Minaj for six weeks straight. What other tracks or mix-sets would you recommend to someone that is not yet familiar with your music?

I just released a new MIX CD. We called it Hot 97 International hour MIX CD mixed by DJ LEAD. Most songs are US Hip Hop, the most recent hits. But it also includes some Japanese Hip Hop and classics. Of course Thaitanium plus Jun K who represent Korea as representative of Asia. That's why it’s called International hour. It is my Show`s name on NYC's HOT97. I got #1 sales On Amazon in Japan with this CD.

What were the best and the worst gigs you ever played and what was the funniest thing ever occurred during any of your performances?

Every night I have fun. Recently I was DJing at 1OAK in NY. It was a crazy night. All the people really love Hip Hop and sing along with the songs.

I already forgot the worst gig. I only keep good memories.

You were born and raised in Kyoto. What can you tell us about clubbing and nightlife there? Do you have any nightlife related suggestions for first-time visitors?

Kyoto is in west Japan and the old capital city. I still live in Kyoto. Tokyo means east, Kyo means Kyoto. That's why Tokyo called Tokyo. Actually Tokyo is East Kyoto. Kyoto is old city like Rome but Kyoto got #1 sightseeing city 2014 in the world. A lot of temple here same as in BKK and beautiful rivers and good food. Also Night Life is crazy, but not like BKK. I think BKK is the #1 craziest spot in Asia. I usually play every Saturday night in Kyoto at Butterfly when I am not outside of the city. Check out on my Instagram @djleadhh and please come to Kyoto.

On 10th March you will live perform live here in Bangkok at Seenspace, alongside the Bangkok Invaders crew. Have you visited Thailand before? What can the Bangkok crowd expect of your upcoming performance?

Yes, I have visited In Thailand many times. First time I came out here was in 2000. Fifteen years ago, as a backpacker. I’m in love with Thailand already, even before I met Bangkok invaders crew. There is good energy, good vibes, everything.

But now I got the Bangkok Invaders Family and they always help me out and taking care of me like family. So after we link up, Thailand is kind like my second hometown.

Catch us at Seenspace on March 10th. Have fun, just drinkin and chillin. Don't notice me lol Enjoy yourself and party with us. For sure we will make it a good night. Shout out to all my Bangkok Invaders family and of course shout out to The Heavy Hitter Family, DJAY BUDDAH AND DJ ONO.