Upclose with Just a Normal DJ
BBC radio show host Norman Jay is the DJ’s DJ. He’s the founder of London pirate radio station Kiss 100, the uber-popular Good Times Sound System stage at Notting Hill Carnival and was recently made a member of the British Order of Chivalry for services to music.
HK: So did all this just fall into your lap?
Norman Jay: Yes, I never planned of all this. I’m just enjoying the white-knuckle ride. It’s still the greatest thing in the world and I’m the luckiest guy in the world. I get to play the music I love and share it with people who share my passion. Of course, I’m like everyone else; I have off days.
HK: The term "godfather" has been bandied about…
NJ: That’s a lovely accolade but I’m not a godfather. It can be a misleading. It’s a term of endearment and, after all, it could be a lot worse. Personally, I’m not about the DJ. I’m a fan of the music, not the person playing it. Me, I’m a crap mixer. My strength is my ability to make the crowd dance. I just play for the paying crowd who shares my excitement for the music.
HK: So imagine if you will, a reality show like Britain’s Next Top DJ…
NJ: I pride myself on never watching “Big Brother” or any of that reality crap. I see it as something that deflects away from what’s really going on in the world. I have no interest in being famous – or other people wanting to be famous for no reason. It’s all part of the greater dumbing-down process. All it does is give you higher expectations of lowered standards. I’m a free thinker.
HK: Judge Jules was your protégé. What’s the number one rule in the Norman Jay School of Disc Jockeying?
NJ: There are no rules. Rules are made to be broken. If it feels right, it is right. Taste, of course can be cultivated. The main function of a DJ is mood control and crowd stimulation. I don’t know if I exactly have a zen metaphor for the art of DJing but you are playing with people’s emotions.
HK: What do you think of people who say DJs aren’t real musicians?
NJ: Since when did I ever tell you I was a musician? I couldn’t really care. Some people might indeed say that and some DJs might well be a musician as well. I’d put it down to the ignorance of people not knowing and making assumptions. I’m well past the age of caring. Comments like that usually come from failed wannabes.