Congratulations on being voted as Cleveland's favorite DJ. Did you ever expect to get this recognition? 

No….but happy people are digging the music!

What do you want to say to the people that supported you through this process?

I would like to say…”Thank you!”  The scene in Cleveland is growing, and it’s an exciting time to be involved in the Electronic Music Scene. With out the support from friends, family and the party people, the parties themselves would be kinda boring, they make the scene!

How did you get started in the music industry?

My friends bought me my first pair of turntables in early 04”…by that October I was opening up for George Acosta at Moda w/ Deviant. Without the support from my friends, I would still be a fan only, nothing wrong with being a fan, I still am a Fan of the Music first and a  DJ second. So a Huge Thank you goes out to that wonderful group of people who have supported me throughout the years!

 
Who are your three biggest musical influences and why?

There really are too many to list here, but my early influences were Digweed, Deep Dish and PVD..  Lately, I have really been into Spirit Catcher,  Desyn Massiello, Nic Fanciulli, Zabiella and  Sultan. There are plenty more, but you only asked for 3, and I have given too many, so I will stop here. Why do I like them? Go seek out there music and or go see theseguys live. They are in a league of their own.

What do you think sets you apart from other local DJs?

Not too sure about this one. I just love the music and I think that shines through.

You've recently started getting into music production. How has the process been like?

Oh boy, it’s been lots fun. I have had some help along the way, which is important. Jason Allen taught me the ropes using Abelton, I have picked up some tricks from Phil K and the boys at Portamento Records, Nino Anthony and David Farlow. Music Production is going to be my focus in 2009..

Where are your favorite venues to spin at?

In Cleveland I would say Anatomy. That sound system is sick, and it’s a very intimate venue. Vision in Chicago is cool.  Bleu in Detroit has the party people and BoMA in Columbus is amazing.

How do you see yourself five years from now?

Doing the same thing, but at the next level.

What's next for Dan Stark?

There are some great parties coming up, System Party is going to be really hot this fall with Marcus Beier on October 4th,  James Lauer November 1st, and Spirit Catcher on Friday November 7th.  The Next Revive is October 25th…and a Very Special Revive on November 27th with the boys from Slanted House Records (Boston) I will also have a mix on Slanted House 1,000,000th subscriber podcast Celebration with the likes of  Kreice, Emjea, The Presslaboys, Charles Feelgood and more…and another mix in November on Frisky Radio. So, that’s what’s next, it’s gonna be an exciting fall!!

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For more on Dan Stark, check out www.djdanstark.com