DJ Sushiman is all over South Florida
When did you realize you wanted to be a DJ?
I have dabbled with music since I was a little boy. My mom would have birthday parties and I was the one who always played the music. I love how good music can make people dance and have fun. When I moved to the US I always wanted to be a DJ, but never had the courage. Then, one day I met TP Lords, who became my best friend. I started downloading music for her performances. She saw how much I loved the music and said to me “Why don’t you become a DJ.”
Where are you from? What brought you to South Florida?
I’m original from Thailand, the land of smiles. I came to South Florida, because my mom told me to. Since my dad was American I have US citizenship and there were many more opportunities here for me. My mom was right!
What was your first residency, and how did that feel?
My first residency was at Twist. I remember feeling disbelief that I was spinning at the iconic Twist, a place I went to when I was just 21 years old. Now I feel like they are my family as everyone is so nice to me. I would like to thank Joel Stedman who believed in me and hired me just based on my best friend’s recommendation. I have been at Twist for five years now, and you can hear me spinning every Wednesday and some other days as well.
What separates you from other DJs?
I’m an old school DJ, as I don’t use my laptop or the synch button. I play and mix with any type of CDJ. I am an open format DJ and can play Commercial Pop, Vocal top 40, Circuit music, but my favorite type of music to play is Circuit Tribal, as I love the high energy with all the drums. I play whatever it takes to make people stay on the dance floor and have fun. I don’t play music for myself, I play it for my audience to have fun and dance. When I feel the energy from the dance floor I play even better as it motivates me.
What are some memorable moments from the DJ booth?
I have spun at so many events, it’s hard for me to remember, but my first block party for Miami Beach Gay Pride 2013 was the start for me to play outdoor events with more than 10,000 people. Now I love to spin for block parties and have done many in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
Other than DJing, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to cook. My friends love when I cook for them, especially if I am making fried rice and soul food. I know I am Asian, but I love to cook everything. I also love shopping, the outdoors, adventure and travel. I am not a homebody, and I don’t like to stay in the house too long.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Sickening beats down!
What does the future hold for Dj Sushiman?
I really want to become an international DJ, so people will know my sound all around the world. I also want to start remixing music.
For more about DJ Sushiman follow him on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter) /DJSushiman. If you want to hear his music, you can listen to his podcast at Soundcloud (search DJ Sushiman) or go and see him at his residencies at: Twist, Palace, EAT in Wilton Manors, The Manor, or Score.
Top 10 this week:
1. Ed Sheeran -Shape of You
2. Katy Perry feat. Skip Marley – Chained to the Rhythm
3. John Legend – Love You Now
4. Rihanna – Sex With Me
5. Ariana Grande feat. Future – Everyday
6. The Weekend feat. Daft Punk – I Feel It Coming
7. Sia – The Greatest
8. Bruno Mars – That’s What I Like
9. Bebe Rexha – I Got You
10. DJ Aron feat. Beth Sacks – What’s Up (hope remix)
