Tim Sweeney's been hosting WNYU's Beats in Space radio program since he was the tender age of 18. Over a decade later, he's still bringing a range of the best in electronic music to the airwaves, hosting big names such as Matthew Dear and Carl Craig, all while touring the world.
The DFA artist will be bringing his beats into our space this Saturday, headlining a show at the Electric Pickle along with opener Entresol, not to mention DJ Mike Sike and DHM. We were able to catch up with Sweeney and ask him a few probing questions, like what he'd put on a mixtape for a crush. He was super cool and told us! We love an honest guy with a sense of humor. Oh, and tons of talent.
Crossfade: Can you share one of the most interesting guests or stories from Beats in Space?
Tim Sweeney: Well, I have a crazy radio show listener right now who calls me up my BIS Hotline number and leaves long rants about what he doesn't like on the show and then how I should either leave America or get beat up. Have you ever seen the movie "Talk Radio" directed by Oliver Stone from 1988? I'm slightly afraid it's going to go the same way as that. Crazy caller ends up killing radio host! But, his messages can be pretty entertaining! He really hates it if I interview someone for too long or play anything outside of what he thinks is "dance music".
What's your favorite thing about doing a radio show?
It's fun do be in the radio studio with a few friends and not have to worry about any dance party or people watching you. You know there could be thousands of people listening, but it's just like you're playing records at home. I really enjoy that time, especially after a weekend of playing parties or festivals. It's nice to come back and just sit in the studio and play some music for people.
I read that you've never missed a week on your show. Where's the strangest place you've aired from, or do you always end up in New York on Tuesdays?
Okay, well, that's not exactly true. I usually miss maybe one show a year and for those shows I will just end up prerecording it at the radio station before I leave. But I really try and always be there on Tuesday nights because I think the feeling in the studio is just a lot more exciting when we're broadcasting live. You can't fix any mistakes!
If you were making a mix tape for a crush, what songs would you include on it?
-Screamin' Jay Hawkins's "I Put A Spell On You"
-Sylvester's "I Need Somebody to Love Tonight"
-Farley Jackmaster Funk's "Love Can't Turn Around" feat. Daryl Pandy
-White Noise's "Love Without Sound"
Can you tell us who your favorite DFA artist is or one that you're most excited about at the moment?
Gavin Russom is on a roll right now. His new "Night Sky" twelve-inch is amazing and I love his other project: The Crystal Ark.
What was last playing on your iPod?
Kenji Takimi from Crue-L Records in Japan. His mix from last year on BIS. It's giving me some inspiration before I head out to Japan next week for a couple shows there.
What's your favorite thing about coming to Miami?
Is that a trick question? Beaches and Cuban food.
Tim Sweeney with Entresol, DJ Mike Sike, and Edwin Adams and Terence Tabeau of DHM. Saturday, August 27. Electric Pickle, 2826 N. Miami Ave., Miami. The beats begin at 10 p.m. Call 305-456-5613 or visit electricpicklemiami.com.
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