InterviewwithDjVenanzion:TheEssenceofSelectionandCulturalResilienceinVenezuela
A journey from Venezuelan Minitecas to the soul of Jamaican Sound System culture
Dj Venanzion embodies the evolution of sound in Venezuela, bridging the gap between local 'Miniteca' traditions and the mystical depth of Jamaican Sound System culture. With a philosophy rooted in the tactile nature of vinyl and the spontaneous energy of live sets, his work as a selector aims to maintain the heartbeat of the culture amidst a rapidly digitizing world.
The Culture
/How did you find your way into Sound System culture, and what hooked you to stay?
A: My first connection with a Soundsystem was seeing a 'Miniteca' (the Venezuelan version of a Sound System) in person when I was about 7 years old. That's where I started playing DJ, drawing sound systems, and designing cover art for the cassettes I'd record from the radio. Without knowing it at the time, a huge part of the music I loved was reggae. By the time I was 25, I traveled to Jamaica; experiencing it in person made me realize that something like that had to happen in my country too.
/How would you describe the scene in your city or country? What makes it different?
A: The scene has always been growing, with everyone contributing from their own position. Undoubtedly, the economic crisis in Venezuela has had devastating consequences for the music industry, slowing down or interrupting many reggae-related cycles. However, the passion of many artists ensures that this movement has a very bright future.
/What would you like the next generation to understand about the Sound System?
A: It is essential that they understand that not everything is digital. There are frequencies and experiences that Spotify simply cannot provide; music shouldn't be condemned to live only on a digital platform. The musical tradition of having a physical record must not die. Roots are essential for the tree to stand tall and bear fruit.
As Selector
/What makes a good selector?
A: Improvisation. Knowing that every set will be unique because you are always playing for a different crowd. There is a unique thrill in creating a mix that only those present can dance to, a moment that may never be repeated exactly the same way again.
/How do you prepare for a session?
A: The energy of the music hits you depending on the moment. There are songs that, after years of knowing them, you finally connect with and decide to add to your list. Every session is about 80% improvisation and 20% of an order that I've only planned in my head. I find rehearsing sets boring; although I've developed some favorite transitions over time, I always look for ways to change them up.
/Do you improvise or plan everything out?
A: I improvise. And if the sound system is 100% formidable, the improvisation becomes even more daring.
/What do you try to create on the dancefloor?
A: The nostalgia of familiar songs is a foolproof way to connect, but since my beginnings, I have always sought to surprise the crowd with something new or a Dubplate that makes them feel proud to hear their country's name in the voice of a great singer. It all boils down to joy. You have to honor the effort that every person makes to support you on the dancefloor.