As one of the architects of house music as we know it today, Mark Kinchen’s career is lined with hit records from his early years in Detroit to Los Angeles, where he currently calls home.
We caught with him for an interview to discuss his LA experience thus far before his gig at Sound Nightclub on February 15.
What got you started in music?
I always loved music, and started playing when I was a kid. I grew up in Detroit where music was everywhere and at that time it was all techno—Kevin Saunderson, Juan Atkins Derrick May, Carl Craig. We were all getting started then.
You’ve been based in Los Angeles for while now, how does the scene out here compare to New York, the last place you called home?
Well, you have to drive everywhere and it is so much more spread out. In NY, you just take cabs and go on the subway, so you could just have a drink or two, walk or take a cab to the next club and everything is open till 4am.
In LA, it’s drive, drive, drive and if you have a drink, you better not be the one driving and you probably won’t club hop because the bars close earlier in LA. Don’t get me wrong, I really love LA, but the two cities are way different as far as the scene or nightlife goes. Strange enough, LA has still had a huge scene for years.
How has living in LA inspired your creative process?
There are so many creative people here, it just seems that people are really open to hanging out and collaborating. I really like the vibe; I am sure it’s something to do with the weather and pace out here. I think the weather and being able to be outdoors all yearlong has big impact on the creative process.
Who are some of your favorite local musicians/producers?
Everyone travels so much or lives in more than one city. It is hard to say: Lee Foss and Jamie jones live here part time. I really like them. So many people live here; I know lots of studio guys too.
You’re playing Sound Nightclub next month with Lee Foss, what can those in attendance look forward to hearing from you?
If I told you it wouldn’t be a surprise…
What do you have in the works for 2013?
Remixing Lana Del Rey with Lee Foss … DJing with lots of folks from Eats Everything to Maceo Plex, producing more music, writing, working with Treasure Fingers. I have a compilation coming out on Defected and more travel, remix, travel, produce, write, travel, DJ, travel. OH and I are going to do a Boiler Room in LA soon, too.
February 15th, he and Lee will be playing Sound Nightclub and seems to be full of surprises.
