Confident. Exuberant. Raw. Innovative. These are just a few of the words industry
insiders and fans have used to describe the talent behind one of America’s favorite house
DJs, Donald Glaude. Ranked 68 on DJMag.com’s Top 100 DJs List in 2005, Donald skyrocketed to
48 this year and his genius keeps on growing…
Born in Tacoma, Washington, Donald’s love for music began at an early age. Originally a
disciplined student of classical music, he was well-versed in the upright bass and violin.
Any aspirations Donald had to continue in the classical vein vanished once he heard his
first house record. With an ear for blending music already under his belt, and a love for
the energy and soul of musical prodigies like George Clinton and Funkadelic, Donald began to
amass a collection of house records which he taught himself to mix with a pair of mismatched
turntables and a Radio Shack mixer.
Before Donald few DJs had attempted to spin house records. Donald’s fine ear helped him
give birth to a new style. After mastering his craft, Donald began DJing in various clubs
around Tacoma and Seattle. During that time he made several important connections which
would launch his music to the forefront of what was quickly becoming one of the largest
underground movements since New Wave in the late-70s. Perhaps the greatest connection Donald
made was with another aspiring DJ and friend, DJ Dan.
Together Donald & DJ Dan sparked the rave scene in Seattle and developed large
followings. Knowing that Donald possessed an energy and ability to work the crowd that was
unparalleled to anyone else on the circuit, Dan convinced San Francisco’s legendary Funky
Tekno Tribe to bring down his good friend Donald to play at one of their parties. Donald’s
talents quickly made him a permanent fixture on F.T.T.’s roster.
Some DJs seek commercial acceptance. Donald, on the other hand, has always preferred an
emotional connection with his audience. For Donald, house music is not simply a mixed bag of
sound, but rather an experience that provokes the soul. Apart from his mastery on the decks,
Donald is best known for his dynamic showmanship. He enjoys his music as much as his
audience does. Embracing their energy, it is not uncommon to find Donald pumping his hands
in the air, jumping up and down and shouting back his love to the crowd. It is this powerful
signature style which has led fellow DJ and musical producer, Dave Aude, to call Donald the
“James Brown of DJs.” Donald also caused some stir in 2005 and 2006 with his residency at
ICE Nightclub in Las Vegas.
Donald’s uncompromising style and innovation show no sign of slowing down any time soon.
With the credit of 5 full-length CDs and numerous remixes under his belt, Donald has focused
much of his time to production work. Producing such dance floor hits as “Get Up” and “Soul
Cha Cha”. As such, Donald has launched two record labels in which are causing rumblings in
the industry. Eden Recordings, started with fellow DJ Rick V, and Durty Records, a
collaboration with good friend Vince Lombardi.
Donald’s 2005 release, “This is Me” (Moist Music), is a 35-track double CD that defines
his creativity, sound and vibrant style. Since its release, Donald’s fans have been eager to
hear what’s next from their favorite DJ. Fans will be pleased to know that Donald’s hard at
work on another double CD, “For the People” (Moist Music), a live recording and original
tracks produced by Donald himself. With the completion of this latest project, the world
should be prepared to experience all sides of Donald Glaude: DJ. Producer. ARTIST.
Continuing to be “The Hardest Working American Dj” Donald has many new projects planned
for this upcoming year. He has a tour scheduled with “America’s Most Beloved Dj” Dj Dan and
he also has another new CD releasing in 2007. Also expect new release from both of his
labels Eden Recordings and Durty Records. You have seen him use his musical talents from
bring his experience in playing bass, percussion, violin and then moving on to the turntable
just show us his grasp on music. To mastering the turntable and then on to recently turned
Serato user always expect the unexpected when you come see Donald Glaude………
Party People! Donald Glaude is @ WET NightClub (San Jose) on Nov 12th
MSFN!! Donald Glaude is @ The CELLAR 744 (Lahaina) on 11/20
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