A BOND OFFICIAL Summer Playlist By New York Based DJ, Mac Joseph
You Met Him Here First — Listen to New York’s Rising DJ Mac Joseph and his favorite summer hit Songs.
Words, Delanique Millwood
Photography, Caleb Thill
In an era where overnight sensations are on a rise in the music industry, becoming a DJ has never been a more sought-after career path. That is, thanks to platforms like Soundcloud and UnitedMasters that create accessibility for artists of all kind to distribute their talent to their fans, worldwide.
In the case of DJ Mac Joseph, he started his DJ career as underground as it gets — house parties, speakeasies, dive bars, the authentic New York nightlife style that he’s been around his entire teenage-to-adult life.
“I wasn’t really enjoying myself at a lot of events I was attending because the music just didn’t vibe right.” says Joseph. “There was always this room full of people who were all there to have a good time but the music vibe was so off. After a few of the same experiences, I kind of thought to myself, ‘I should do this,’ because all of my friends are always interested in the music I am listening to and I knew what a good party felt like. So one day I made the decision and bought myself a controller and taught myself how to DJ.”
Influenced by the likes of Kaytranada, the fusion of Hip Hop, Disco music and Latin sounds, he describes his mix as creating a fun space that keeps people dancing.
“Dance plays a big role in the way I mix and how I play at any given event.” he says. “I could be playing at a bar with only three people in sight and I will play music for those three people to dance and have a good time. It’s important to me that people feel good when I’m on set. Right now I’m not at the height of my career, but I am in a space where I am growing and building that momentum. Recently I was DJ-ing Kenneth Cole’s pride event and Nelson Mandela's grandson was there, and just the idea of having him hear me play music was amazing to me. Moments like those reassure me that I’m on the right path”
Scroll down for Mac Joseph's Top 6 Summer Song Highlights
“Summertime Magic” by Childish Gambino
(2018)
“The title pretty much sums up why it’s on this list. It feels fresh, effortless, and chilI. I typically play the remix by Zikomo and it’s a perfect track to hang out poolside.”
“Work” by Rihanna & Drake
(2016)
“This song always creeps up on every playlist. I love playing the intro to the song underneath whatever song I’m playing before it and you can visibility see the crowd’s reaction because they know they’re about to whine to RiRi.”
“Make It Hot” by Major Lazer & Anitta
(2019)
“This is a great song to play in the middle of the night when everyone wants to dance. Perfect for body rolling and whining after you’ve had a couple.”
“Truth Hurts” by Lizzo
(2019)
“I HAD to pick a Lizzo track and it was between this and Tempo. I’ve played this track in so many different scenarios and every time everyone has broken out and sung out the lyrics.”
“Con Altura” by Rosalia & J Balvin
(2019)
“If it was up to me, this would be the song of the summer at all costs. Makes you want to move your body and have a good time, any time.”
“Losing You” by Solange
(2002)
“This might be one of my favorite songs ever. It’s a breezy tune perfect for getting ready or dancing with your friends.”
Listen to the full playlist on Spotify.
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