Interview with Judge Jules ahead of Gatecrasher's Boxing Day White Party

Boxing Day sees veteran Dj and Radio 1 legend Judge Jules appear at Gatecrasher Birmingham's White Party. We caught up with him for a chat about 'survival of the fittest', new releases, and why he lovs playing at Gatecrasher.

You’ve had another storming year in Ibiza - tell us about that? 

With the world’s economy upside-down, you’d be surprised to hear that’s it’s been one of our busiest seasons to date. It’s survival of the fittest in the most competitive clubbing location in the world. To stay ‘fit’, we’re constantly thinking of ways to improve and keep things fresh.This applies to both décor/entertainment and the DJs we use. Roll on 2012.

You’ve had another phenomenal year, tell us about the highlights? 

The above-mentioned was certainly one of them. I also played many great gigs in all four corners of the world, but closer to home, the SW4 festival in London was definitely one of my highlights. There’s something special about playing a large-scale event in your hometown.

What can we expect from you in 2012?

I’ve got a backlog of completed singles, which will be winging their way to release in early 2012.  DJs are judged as artists predominantly on the basis of their production offerings, and I’ve got a shed load of absolutely wicked tunes ready to burst out.

Any New Year’s resolutions?

It’s a tricky one.  After being asked this question so many times (always going on to fail in my resolutions), I’m a little reticent to commit myself.  Let me think… attempting to go to the gym at least five times a week.

Any predictions on who will be big in 2012?

Russia’s Arty is making his mark massively on the scene.  I think 2012 will be his year!

Are you planning any new releases soon?

Yes, my next track is called “Madness”, and will be out to download very soon.

Any big acts you’d like to work with?

I’d love to collaborate on a track with Armin Van Buuren or Ferry Corsten- I think we’d cook up some Anglo-Dutch magic. They’re both good mates, but the distance between the UK and Holland is a bit of a factor counting against it.

 2012 marks your 15 year anniversary on Radio 1 – what your best and worst memories of working at the station? 

All my best memories come from the countless Radio 1 live events I’ve performed at.  It’s all very well doing your show in a subterranean studio with a few mates and production staff in tow, but screaming live crowds are where it’s at. The saddest memory was when John Peel died. He was a gent and a true legend.

How have things changed over the years?

Wow, that’s a massive question that would take a book (or at least a PHD thesis) to answer.  In SO many ways and in every aspect of what I do, principally driven by technology.  I could go on for hours…

Can you go another 15 years do you think? 

Clearly there will be a point when it’s time to pass the BBC mic (and headphones) over, but I haven’t reached it just yet. 15 years more DJing is clearly unlikely though…

What can we expect from you set at Gatecrasher? 

Chunky, uplifting with a gritty industrial groove!

It always feels like a homecoming when you are here? 

I’ve been playing Gatecrasher longer than any other UK club night and it definitely feels like home.  I’ve got a key to the venue somewhere on my keyring.

What do you think of the Birmingham club? 

Doubly excited because Boxing Day is such a massive clubbing night, possibly my favourite date of the year.

Judge Jules appears with Laidback Luke, Eddie Halliwell, Dash Berlin and more at Gatecrasher Birmingham's White Party this Boxing Day. 

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