Pride Toronto
What do DJs Micky Friedmann, Aron, Dave and Gerardo have in common? They’re all extremely talented and good-looking, but they’re also headlining what promise to be some of the most memorable events taking place in the 30th edition of Pride Toronto, from June 25 to July 4. We met these kings of house music to learn more about the men that will make Toronto dance.
By André Ferreira
Micky Friedman – Berlin
How did it all begin?
Music was a part of my life since I was a child. My parents used to listen to a lot of classical music, Latin music and electronic music that my father brought to Israel from the U.S.A.
I started dancing when I was 11. From then on music was around me eight hours every day.
As a teenager I started going out to clubs in Israel and was always interested in new music, the new mixes and new productions. I was dancing ballet during the week and went out to the clubs on the weekend.
A dancer’s life is very demanding and demands a lot of discipline, so in 1998 when I moved to Berlin to join the Berlin Ballet as a soloist, I bought two used turntables and a mixer. I then started teaching myself how to spin as a way to unwind and relax after a long day in the ballet studio. It was good to come home and enjoy playing different kind of music just for fun.
I never really thought that I would become a professional DJ. It was after I met Junior Vasquez that something clicked in my mind and with his support I felt I wanted to give it a try.
After I decided to end my ballet career I started playing in small lounges in Berlin and from then on everything started to role.
Who’s throwing the best parties at the moment?
Spain! The Spanish parties are the hottest parties in the world at the moment: Matinee, the new ´Circuit festival´ in Barcelona, ‘Supermartxe,’ ‘WE,’ ‘Space of sound’ in Madrid. There are other amazing parties in Europe, such as ´La Demence´ in Brussels, and ´Rapido´ in Amsterdam.
How do you feel physical appearance affects a DJ’s career? Do you think in this industry looks are as important as talent?
I believe one should never be credited for something they didn´t work hard for. Yes, it is a wonderful gift being born with the right genes, but it’s important to keep things in perspective. There are so many great looking guys around; the real magic is to shine for your talent, not only for your looks.
When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?
When I´m done I usually like to go back to my room and have a warm shower. It takes me a while to unwind and I always think about my set for a while after it´s finished. If my tall beautiful Russian boyfriend travels with me we chill out and spend quality time together. If there is a good after hours it is always fun to go listen to some great music and relax.
How do you feel about playing during Pride Toronto?
Canada and Toronto have a very special place in my heart. I was warmly embraced from the very first time I arrived to play here. It is a great honor to be a part of these incredible events of during Gay Pride Toronto.´ Playing two major events during Gay pride is an overwhelming blessing.
To hear Micky during Pride Toronto
July 3 at the Main Event: Olympus, Sound Academy. Admission: $60 advanced. More information: prismtoronto.com
July 4 at the Tree House Party, Green Space on Church (Cawthra Square Park). Free admission, contributions go to the 519 Community Centre. For more information: www.the519.org
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Aron
Tel Aviv, London
How did it all begin?
It all began when I lived in New York City ten years ago. I bought two turntables and some records and started to play for my friends in my house. From there I made some demo sets which I would distribute to promoters. I then started getting bookings. My first gig was for White Party Palm Springs.
Who’s throwing the best parties at the moment?
I now live in Europe so for me the best parties are ‘Supermartxe’ and ‘Circuit Festival’ in Barcelona.
How do you feel physical appearance affects a DJ’s career? Do you think in this industry looks are as important as talent?
I think it’s important to look good as a DJ, but you have to have a talent as well. If you have no talent, you won’t go far. It doesn’t matter if you look good because in the end, it’s the music that makes people dance.
When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?
It depends on where I’m playing. If I’m playing in a party where I’m alone without my friends around, I like to go back to the hotel and relax and get some sleep. If I have my friends around it’s an entirely different story!
How do you feel about playing during Pride Toronto?
I’m thrilled because it’s my first time in Toronto and I know many people in the city who are very excited to hear me live. I’m also very happy to share the decks with some of my DJ friends.
To hear Aron during Pride Toronto
July 4 at the Tree House Party, Green Space on Church (Cawthra Square Park). Free admission, contributions go to the 519 Community Centre. For more information: www.the519.org
July 5 Rise and Shine afterhours, Official PRISM after-hour at The Barn.
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Dave and Gerardo
New York
How did it all begin?
We started dating in 2007 and shortly after we purchased our first set of turntables together and began practicing every day. We each brought our own perspective and taste, but learned how to work together and create something cohesive. Our “big break” was an opening spot for Ana Paula in New York City. That set went really well and opened a lot of doors for us.
Who’s throwing the best parties at the moment?
That depends on the city. Rosane Amaral’s R:Evolution parties in Brazil have an incredible energy. Hilton Wolman has been throwing great parties in Florida for years, and Ric Sena’s Alegria in New York is consistently extravagant. At the same time, it’s also nice to see some up and coming promoters starting their own parties.
How do you feel physical appearance affects a DJ’s career? Do you think in this industry looks are as important as talent?
We both believe that talent trumps all else. There’s no doubt physical appearance may help a DJ get recognized, but they need to prove themselves once given the opportunity. For us, we want to be known for turning out the beats.
When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?
Immediately after a big party, we usually order a large pizza and pig out. But seriously, we just bought a condo together, so we have been really busy moving in, decorating, and spending time together.
How do you feel about playing during Pride Toronto?
We are honored to play in Toronto for the first time during Pride. We’re especially looking forward to playing at the Tree House Party. It’s such a large event that raises money for causes that are important to our community.
To hear Dave and Gerardo during Pride Toronto
July 4 at the Tree House Party, Green Space on Church (Cawthra Square Park). Free admission, contributions go to the 519 Community Centre. For more information: www.the519.org
