Can you take us through the making of a DJ Sabzi beat?
Well, I listen to a lot of different music, anywhere from old jazz to Bob Dylan’s catalog to classic producers like Pete Rock, DJ Premier and Diamond D. Usually I work on drums first, then I look for samples and chop them up. What equipment do you use? Right now, actually I use a computer and I use Acid to assemble everything. And I also have a synthesizer, Technics and a vinyl collection. You’re also a classically-trained jazz pianist. How does that help you when making beats? Studying jazz was a means by which I learned music theory in general. Musical principles are the same across all genres across the world. So understanding how a song flows and knowing chord progressions, that makes me feel like I’m empowered with knowing what to dig for and what’s going to match with what. That’s mainly it. And then I have some mild keyboard skills too that are present on the record as well. You’re also a fan of indie ska and punk. How does that affect your music? A lot of that actually has a bi
