"Bring your own perspective, bring your culture into it, bring your background into it, bring your loves and likes into it," says DJ Madre, the Minneapolis DJ and owner of Wax World, whose journey from growing up poor in South Minneapolis to curating inclusive, community-driven dance floors is anything but typical.

On this episode of Behind the Decks MPLS, Rosa shares how her early memories of Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation tour, drumming lessons as a child, and coming up in immigrant-dense neighborhoods shaped her unique outlook on music and space-making. She dives deep into the real work of making Minneapolis’s DJ scene more equitable—whether that’s teaching others to spin vinyl, building nightlife experiences for queer and trans youth, or running her record shop as a true grassroots hub.

Rosa doesn't shy away from the tougher realities of the music world, sharing what it means to stand firm against racism and exclusion, and honestly reflecting on what it takes to “pay it forward” in an industry that hasn’t always valued her perspective. Her story is a blend of vulnerability, grit, and devotion to authentic community—a refreshing take on what DJing and dance floors can be.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/dBkv4-LnbvE

CATCH THE B2B:

DJ Madre + Harry Duran YouTube: https://youtu.be/pL4h6I_2Eso

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/dj-madre-b2b-harry-duran

5 Key Takeaways

1. Bring your authentic self—infuse your culture, background, and honest perspective into your DJ sets so the crowd sees the real you.
2. Build and nurture community—create safe, inclusive spaces where everyone feels seen, honored, and free to express themselves.
3. Don’t wait for access—get hands-on with the tools you have, start making mixes, and teach yourself relentlessly.
4. Support your scene—share opportunities, pay DJs fairly, and keep money circulating within your local creative community.
5. When setbacks hit, adapt and rebuild—transform loss into momentum by saying yes to new opportunities and collaborations.

Memorable Quotes

"I spent about 10 years of my DJ career teaching other people how to DJ and I still do. I've had my own naive ideas about helping people and what might happen for me if people were to pay it forward. I still do."

"I felt like once I borrowed my friend's DJ controller, it was like, I've been waiting for this. That's another part of being poor, not having access, having to survive, having to deal with so many things coming at me all the time just based on the conditions I brought in."

"Bring your own perspective, bring your culture into it, bring your background into it, bring your loves and likes into it. That was how I was able to start, being in those underground scenes and being able to curate the whole space."

Connect with Rosa AKA DJ Madre

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waxworldmn

Resources Mentioned

KFAI Radio (Minneapolis community radio station) - https://kfai.org/

District 202 (historic LGBTQ+ youth community center, Minneapolis) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/District_202

KDWB (Minnesota radio station) - https://kdwb.iheart.com/

Wax World (Minneapolis record store run by Rosa) - https://www.waxworldmpls.com/

Red Sea (Minneapolis venue) - https://redseamn.com/

Suede Studios (media production/streaming company) - https://suedestudios.com/

Technics 1200 (iconic DJ turntable) - https://www.technics.com/global/products/dj/

DVS1 (influential Minneapolis DJ/producer) - https://www.residentadvisor.net/dj/dvs1

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

“You gotta support the people that support you and don’t go overboard for people that don’t do shit for you, basically. And buy your friends’ fucking music and play your friend’s music and then everything will be all right,” says , a Colombian-born DJ and producer whose journey from the salsa-soaked parties of Cali to the legendary clubs of New York City, and now Minneapolis, is anything but ordinary.

Appearing on Behind the Decks MPLS, traces his path from a shy kid at family gatherings—intimidated by Colombia’s fiercely rhythmic salsa culture—to discovering personal freedom through electronic music and iconic DVDs of Tiesto in Amsterdam. He explains how crafting beats on FL Studio in his teens helped him find belonging, even before he stepped behind the decks. Now, after 15 years in the heart of NYC’s nightlife and a soulful restart in Minnesota, brings a unique, global sound and a spirit of community to the local scene. He gets candid about culture shock, the grind of immigrant life, why representation still matters at big shows, and shares real-world advice for aspiring DJs forging their own creative paths.

Curious how a record gifted by his grandfather, late-night vinyl sessions at Cielo, and a family move to Minneapolis all fuse into one inspiring DJ philosophy? Listen to this electric episode of Behind the Decks MPLS.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/2gUI4YUFe2U

CATCH THE B2B:

GUEST + Harry Duran YouTube: https://youtu.be/U-C2S48ryAo

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/st-xose-b2b-harry-duran

5 Key Takeaways

1. Support those who support you—build your community by actively showing up for the people who show up for you.
2. Buy and play your friends’ music—directly invest in your network and lift others as you rise.
3. Get out of your comfort zone—go to events, network, and relentlessly seek out your music people wherever you land.
4. Do it from the heart—let passion drive your work, not just outcomes or trends.
5. Prioritize your health—drink electrolytes and care for your well-being so you can sustain late nights and long journeys.

Memorable Quotes

"You gotta support the people that support you and don’t go overboard for people that don’t do shit for you. Buy your friends’ music and play your friend’s music—everything will be all right. Do it from the heart."

"I was not able to get a girlfriend until I was probably 18 because I didn’t know how to dance salsa, and the only way for you to get a girlfriend is to know how to dance salsa."

"It was just a performance. I just saw the guy having the best time of his life, and people were enjoying it, they were having a good time. That’s what made me want to be a DJ."

Connect with St. Xose

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/st_xose

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/plush_mpls

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

"Take advantage of your circle and the people around you that are already doing it, and don't be afraid to ask for help," says TNA, a rising star in Minneapolis’ house and electronic music scene. In this episode of Behind the Decks MPLS, TNA shares how moving from Dallas, Texas to snowy Stillwater shaped her eclectic musical tastes—from her parents' soulful R&B and Nigerian influences to her solo trek into electronic music with a Disclosure concert that sparked her DJ journey.

She reveals how being active and intentional in the local scene—as both a partygoer and performer—helped her find her groove, eventually landing high-profile gigs opening for acts like Chris Lake. Now shifting her focus from gigging to honing her craft as a producer, TNA reflects on building community, the thrill and nerves of breaking into DJing, and how showing up, being authentic, and connecting with others opened every door. Whether you’re a Minneapolis music lover or an aspiring DJ, Tina’s story is a blueprint for finding your sound and your scene.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/rlzuU8fypJ4

CATCH THE B2B:

TNA + Harry Duran YouTube: https://youtu.be/WKY9h9HCMNU

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/tna-b2b-harry-duran-behind-the-decks-mpls

5 Key Takeaways

1. Don’t wait for invitations—attend local events, introduce yourself, and get your face in the scene.
2. Take advantage of your existing network—ask for help, collaborate, and practice with friends to sharpen your skills.
3. Say yes to opportunities early on—experience and “doing the reps” in different settings build real confidence.
4. Challenge yourself to find and play unique, underplayed tracks—curate intentionally to stand out from the crowd.
5. Shift from doing everything to being intentional—focus your energy where you can grow most, whether it’s gigging less or deepening your production craft.

Memorable Quotes

"Take advantage of your circle and the people around you that are already doing it, and don't be afraid to ask for help. For practice sessions, a lot of us practice by playing with one another, having sessions at someone's house before a show to get some practice and bounce ideas off each other."

"I just wanted to play as much as possible and get the practice so I wasn’t nervous about not exporting my music correctly, or not turning off the filter after it’s been on for thirty seconds, little things. I think I just kind of said yes to a lot, which was good because it gave me a good framework and good practice."

"I want to play less because I’ve done a lot already, and right now my focus is more on production and developing something that’s more unique to me. I’m still doing events and playing a decent amount, but just being more intentional about the shows that I’m doing and not saying yes to everything because I’m not really practicing anymore; I’m more solidifying the craft."

Connect with TNA

Instagram - https://instagram.com/akadjtna

Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/akadjtna

Resources Mentioned

RESOURCES

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

“When you talk to someone that you’ve never met, that is feeling a way—that you’ve created a space for them to have an emotion or a feeling or a connection or whatever that word is that they didn’t have when they walked in—that’s cool,” says Nick Gunz, Minneapolis DJ, party promoter, and community builder, who joins Behind the Decks MPLS to share how his journey from a small town in Wisconsin to the heart of Minneapolis’s house scene has been fueled by the pursuit of music-driven connection.

With candor and humor, Nick Gunz traces his evolution from car-bound tape deck mixtape obsession and youthful dreams of hitting Chicago, to years spent throwing warehouse parties, promoting shows, and cultivating the city’s beloved Day Funk event series. He explains the high (and sometimes losses) of storytelling as party promotion, the philosophy behind curating inclusive, all-ages spaces, and why—after years of making a party about himself—he finds the lasting joy is in focusing on how people feel together in the moment. If you want house music with heart, vision, and a piece of Minneapolis history, you’ll want to hear Nick Gunz’s journey on Behind the Decks MPLS.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/PK5ZUyOrL5Q

CATCH THE B2B:

Nick Gunz + Harry Duran YouTube: https://youtu.be/RqCBz-mVlyY

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/nick-gunz-b2b-harry-duran

5 Key Takeaways

1. Make your events less about yourself and more about the experience you create—focus on the feeling your audience walks away with, not your personal spotlight.
2. Tell powerful stories when promoting—don’t just push DJs or lineups, craft a narrative that gets people emotionally invested before they even arrive.
3. Invest in infrastructure—own your gear, stay on top of maintenance, and be ready for the chaos and cable mishaps that nonstop event production brings.
4. Move with generosity—build a culture where people keep coming back because they feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for.
5. Don’t wait—if you see what could work, take action; create the space, book the lineup, and bring your vision to life without overthinking.

Memorable Quotes

"When you talk to someone that you've never met who is feeling a way, and you've created a space for them to have an emotion or a connection they didn't have when they walked in, that's cool."

"The payoff now is this idea of creating something that didn't exist yesterday, that won't exist tomorrow, where people come in and experience something that's about them."

"If I was up and coming and trying to build an audience, I would figure out a way to make it less about me and more about the people I'm trying to make feel a certain way."

Connect with Nick

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsallhappeningrightnow

Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/WbhvNplhovfZp9mqKk

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

“It’s like a charcuterie board of music—variety is the spice of life,” says Dazy Haze, Minneapolis-based DJ, public health professional, and creator who joins Behind the Decks MPLS to share her journey from classically trained pianist in Wisconsin to dynamic force in the Twin Cities’ electronic scene. As Dazy Haze explains, her musical palette was shaped by dissecting orchestral layers, jamming on jock jams in grade school, and eventually diving deep into the Burning Man scene in California, where the fusion of art, music, and community ignited her passion for DJing.

Today on Behind the Decks MPLS, Dazy Haze reflects on how post-COVID Minneapolis feels ripe for creative rebirth, why she’s intentionally committing to playing what’s in her heart—including melodic house, tech house, acid, and pop remixes—and how she’s balancing her drive for production with a mission to give back. She discusses her disciplined approach to lifelong learning, the challenges of incorporating live instruments into electronic sets, and why donating a portion of her DJ earnings is non-negotiable. If you’re curious about the artistic evolution of a DJ blending musical flavors, openly navigating personal rebrands, and striving to make an impact, you’ll want to hear Dazy Haze’s story.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/1R1BoC4O3tE

CATCH THE B2B:

Dazy Haze + Harry Duran YouTube: https://youtu.be/KdgHfXwi-jw

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/btd003-dazy-haze-b2b-harry

5 Key Takeaways

1. Define your creative goals—get specific, make a plan, and execute with intention instead of drifting aimlessly.
2. Put in the reps—practice your craft daily, whether it’s DJing, producing, or learning new skills. Consistency wins.
3. Stay true to your sound—play what ignites your passion, not just what you think others want. Authenticity attracts the right opportunities.
4. Connect with your community—reach out, share, and learn from others. Every conversation holds a lesson, every collaboration opens doors.
5. Give back—use your platform and resources to help causes you care about. Generosity multiplies impact far beyond the dance floor.

Memorable Quotes

"Over time you will learn more finesse. That's just taken time to keep practicing, keep understanding the capabilities of this musical instrument, and then playing around, finding that space, taking the time is really important."

"It all always would center around: just be yourself. But it's still a journey to find out what that is. You still have to talk with yourself, be with yourself, and explore your library or explore the sounds you like."

"When it came to this latest rebrand, it was easy to just focus around creation and others finding joy through art and music—what I can open up portals to help people see through, walk through, or dance through. Maybe they like what's on the other side, and we’re all just creating little portals for each other to walk through."

Connect with Dazy Haze

Instagram: http://instagram.com/dazyhazemusic

Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/qacvW6UhcUR6lMQc5P

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

Discover in-depth DJ interviews, music production tips, and mental health discussions with Minneapolis artist Noel Jean in this Behind the Decks podcast episode! This conversation dives into DJ culture, house music influences, and authentic creative journeys, exploring Noel Jean’s transition from hip-hop roots to electronic music, the impact of vinyl, Chicago house, European sounds, and meaningful approaches to balancing social media and artistry. Perfect for musicians, DJs, producers, and music lovers seeking real insights on building a lasting career in the music industry, intentional community building, and creative growth. Join host Harry Duran for a thoughtful look at leadership, strategy, personal growth, and building something that actually lasts—substance over hype, every episode. Subscribe for inspiring stories and actionable wisdom from passionate visionaries shaping the future of music.

Watch the Interview with Noel Jean + Harry Duran

https://youtu.be/NvU66mTqKf4

Connect with Noel Jean

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noeljeanmusic

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/noeljeanmusic

Bandcamp: https://noeljeanmusic.bandcamp.com/

Soul Exchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulexchange.us

Soul Exchange YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoulExchangeUS

Soul Exchange Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/soulexchange-us

Behind the Decks MPLS Podcast Elsewhere

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/sets/behind-the-decks-mpls

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎧 Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast → https://fullcast.co

🎧 About Behind the Decks MPLS

============

Electronic music scenes don’t grow from algorithms—they grow from people, late nights, and local rooms that shape the sound.

Each episode of Behind the Decks MPLS features an in-depth interview with a DJ from the Minneapolis–Twin Cities scene, followed by a back-to-back DJ set that captures their style, influences, and energy behind the decks.

If you love house and electronic music, DJ culture, local scenes, and discovering the stories behind the music—this show is for you.

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

“So that really just like that first experience of being up till the break of dawn and, you know, hearing vinyl for the first time, that just triggered me of like, this is what I'm supposed to be listening to,” says Noel Jean, the Haitian-Tanzanian producer and DJ, who joins Start a Conversation to share the unlikely journey that transformed him from a poet and Southern hip-hop fan into a passionate house and techno artist with a relentless drive to craft the Minneapolis scene.

Raised amid a whirlwind of late-night studio sessions, rap influences, and soulful family barbecues, Noel’s story is equal parts vulnerability and hustle. He opens up about using writing—first poetry, now music—as a tool for self-connection and discusses how his background in social work and therapy shapes not only his presence as a DJ, but also his advocacy for mental health in an industry obsessed with social media virality. Noel offers an honest take on the struggle to balance privacy with visibility and why blending influences from African rhythms, disco, and European loopy grooves has helped him find his true sound.

Tune in to this episode of Start a Conversation to follow Noel’s journey from shy covers on YouTube, through silent disco battles and Chicago rooftop parties, to building the Soul Exchange event series—and discover why embracing community over clout is the real path forward for emerging artists.

Catch the B2B with Harry Duran

YouTube: https://youtu.be/NvU66mTqKf4

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-344089927/noel-jean-b2b-harry-duran

5 Key Takeaways

1. Don’t wait to create—just start DJing, producing, and building your skill at home or local events. Progress is made in motion, not hesitation.
2. Community fuels growth—show up, support local DJs, and connect authentically. Your presence unlocks opportunities faster than self-promotion.
3. Stay true to your style—resist viral trends and curate your music with honesty. Authenticity attracts real fans and opens doors with integrity.
4. Keep learning actively—dig deep into music history, crate digging, and seek feedback from mentors. Mastery follows curiosity, not comfort.
5. Pair creativity with organization—build templates, set up playlists for samples, and plan releases ahead. Structured habits turn inspiration into impact.

Memorable Quotes

"So that really just, that first experience of being up till the break of dawn and hearing vinyl for the first time triggered me to realize this is what I'm supposed to be listening to."

"Simple is good. I finally understood my sound, which is that loopy, funky groove—sampling songs, keeping things repetitive but interesting with small variations, not overcomplicating things."

"One of the most important things for me is journaling and being honest with myself about what I'm putting out—making sure it reflects who I am and staying true to my craft rather than just doing it for likes."

Connect with Noel Jean

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noeljeanmusic

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/noeljeanmusic

Bandcamp: https://noeljeanmusic.bandcamp.com/

Soul Exchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulexchange.us

Soul Exchange YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoulExchangeUS

Soul Exchange Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/soulexchange-us

Resources Mentioned

Dubspot - https://www.dubspot.com/

Dojo by Ben Rau (music production course/platform) - https://dojomusic.net/

Shazam (music identification app mentioned for track discovery) - https://www.shazam.com/

ARK Music Festival (Chicago house & electronic festival) - https://arcmusicfestival.com/

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

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Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

Discover the vibrant Minneapolis–Twin Cities house and electronic music scene with Behind the Decks MPLS! In this premiere episode, host Harry Duran sits down with DJ Turnstyle for an in-depth conversation on DJ culture, local music history, breakdancing, and the roots of hip-hop and house in Minnesota. Featuring inspiring stories from the dancefloor to the club booth, this podcast is a must-watch for fans of electronic music, DJ interviews, local scenes, and anyone looking to hear real stories behind the music. After the interview, dive into a back-to-back DJ set that brings the Twin Cities energy to life! Subscribe for unmatched insights into house music, Minneapolis DJs, and the people driving electronic dance culture forward. #HouseMusic #MinneapolisDJ #ElectronicMusicPodcast

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

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Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

"Love music. If you don't love music, if you're doing it for all the wrong reasons, that sincerity or lack of sincerity is going to show to the audience," says DJ Turnstyle, Minneapolis-based DJ, dancer, and lifelong explorer of hip-hop and house culture. As the inaugural guest on Behind the Decks MPLS, DJ Turnstyle shares the remarkable journey that started with being mesmerized by “Beat Street” and b-boy battles at a childhood drive-in, and led to sneaking into legendary Minneapolis clubs at 14 before ultimately becoming a mainstay of the local music scene.

Turnstyle traces his deep-rooted obsession with music to his musician father, cable TV, and the burning curiosity that compelled him to hunt down the origins of every sample, every beat, every style—from Prince and Michael Jackson dance moves to the surprise discovery of house music during a traffic jam in Chicago. He explains the philosophy behind being a true selector and conductor, driving a crowd with intention and reverence for the artistry in every track. He also describes why Minneapolis’ multicultural music ecosystem—hungry and eclectic—shaped his genre-blending, crowd-moving approach.

In this conversation with host Harry Duran, Turnstyle opens up about the heartbreak of selling his first decks, the DJ’s deeper responsibility to honor forgotten artists, and the advice he gives to anyone thinking about stepping behind the decks: bring love, curiosity, and purpose to the music above all else.

Tune in to Behind the Decks MPLS to discover how Turnstyle weaves together history, dance, hip-hop, and house into one electric journey—and why the best DJs, he insists, are always the biggest music lovers.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Love music first—true passion is felt by everyone in the room. Honor your taste and let sincerity drive your set.
2. Embrace your curiosity—explore every genre, dig for samples, and never stop learning. The more you know, the better your craft.
3. Use your platform to elevate artists—respect the creators whose beats and records power your mixes. Be a responsible selector.
4. Curate the experience—think like a conductor and guide your crowd on a journey, not just with tracks but with intention behind every transition.
5. Start wherever you are—don’t wait for perfect gear. Mix with what you have, make the mixes you want to hear, and build momentum from there.

Memorable Quotes

"Love music. If you don't love music, if you're doing it for all the wrong reasons, that sincerity or lack of sincerity is going to show to the audience."

"I loved the idea of curating a set and really living up to the idea of not just being a DJ but being a selector. How do I—what do I want to say tonight to people?"

"I feel like what we're doing as selectors and DJs is we have to love music and honor the artists who create this, because without it, we wouldn't have anything."

Connect with DJ Turnstyle

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turnstyledj

Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/MDnrlsD2uhiVWDeJ7n

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

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Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co

Each episode of Behind the Decks features an in-depth interview with a DJ from the Minneapolis–Twin Cities scene, followed by a back-to-back DJ set that captures their style, influences, and energy behind the decks.

If you love house and electronic music, DJ culture, local scenes, and discovering the stories behind the music—this show is for you.

Connect with Us

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkPG6MJDADxPDad9Dkzg2ewN4Ry7BOnnL

Listen + Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0nuAdLB1RSemf51PCsTLba?si=ea696f6013d542ba

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-decks-mpls/id1868466897

MPLSHOUSE

Website: https://www.mplshouse.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/mplshouse

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mplshouse3333

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mplshouse

Angel Sandro on Instagram: http://instagram.com/angelmsandro

Credits

Podcast Track ID: (Feel For Yuh) - Jeff Swiff feat. MPLSHOUSE on Real Feel Records

https://itstherealfeel.bandcamp.com/album/jeff-swiff-mplshouse-six-won-two-ep-rfr004

Hosted by Harry Duran

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djhdbeats

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djhd

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production & Marketing by FullCast - https://fullcast.co