Experiencing Mr. V’s DJ sets, original productions, or remixes is like taking a trip back in time to dance music’s golden age. Before superstar DJs took over the spotlight, dance music was a cultural phenomenon that did what no other form of music could do – bring people together. It didn’t matter what race or sexual orientation you came from because dance music was all about embracing our differences and creating a homogeneous vibe. The music was built heavily on traditional song structures and lots of heart and soul. DJs played whatever it took to get the party going and the music was never predictable. It is with this classic spirit and enthusiasm that New York City’s Mr. V targets today’s dance music world. Mr. V is a throwback in the purest sense.

Growing up in the 1980’s the open-minded Mr. V was heavily influenced by House, Hip-Hop, Latin, Garage and Disco classics, Rhythm & Blues and Jazz. Mr. V was enamored by the role a DJ commanded over a crowd and was taken by the talents of his friend Lord G., who had a weekly Thursday night party in New York City. Despite wanting to be a professional DJ, it wasn’t until he met the legendary Louie Vega that he found his calling. “Louie used to have his party called “Underground Network,” and that’s where I discovered a deeper taste for house music. I always wanted to be a DJ, but Louie’s type of music – that whole soulful sound – is what I wanted to play,” says Mr. V. Louie Vega saw the drive and potential in Mr. V and hired the young Nuyorican DJ / producer as his assistant at the world famous Masters At Work label. In this position Mr. V was given a rare glimpse into the global dance scene and before long was taking to the decks alongside his mentor.

Stylistically, Mr. V has a wildly eclectic sound that brings spontaneity back to the art of DJing. “Sometimes I just pull stuff [out of the DJ bag] out of the blue. I like to keep people guessing. I play things that I don’t think other people are playing – I’ll play a house-rock record or some classic stuff. It’s always different and depends on the vibe,” he says.

In 2001, along with partner Alix Alvarez, Mr. V launched his own label Sole Channel Music as a way to release music with complete control and artistic freedom. 2006 was a breakout year for Mr. V as we saw the release of his much anticipated debut album, Welcome Home. Combining his multifaceted skills as a Dj / producer / remixer, and with an ear towards dance music’s roots, Mr. V is a name to watch out for!