TWELV takes a step back and visits the masterminds behind the camera.
DJ-ing his Way From England to L.A.: Zen Freeman Opens up to TWELV About his Latest Endeavors
May 01, 2012 10:08 AM
“A celebrity in his own right, [Zen Freeman] DJs and promotes for the hottest events and venues worldwide. Celebs from Miley Cyrus to Justin Timberlake have retained his services and he’s proven to be a fave of such world-renown DJ talents as Paul Oakenfold and Sasha & Digweed with whom he frequently collaborates.”
1. When did you realize you wanted to become a DJ? And what has the journey to becoming the success you are today been like?
I knew I wanted to be a DJ from the time I was really young, about age 13. The journey has been a long one and a good one. Sometimes hard to recall. It began so long ago that I had to have a fake ID to even play at the clubs I was spinning at and it took me all around the world. All kinds of venues and all kinds of clients. A few detours along the way, but all in all a pretty fun ride.
2. What was the biggest turning point in your career?
I'd definitely say that would be when I got signed by Paul Oakenfold and Perfecto Records.
3. If you weren't a DJ what other profession would you pursue?
That depends, do I have to be good at it? I mean, if it was up to me, I'd be playing for Manchester United, but I'm not so sure Sir Alex would be too keen on that.
4. Since you are a DJ so I have to ask, what is your favorite type of music? Or sounds to mix?
I play all kinds of music in all kinds of situations. And I really do enjoy a wide variety of music. But the type of music I really get excited about is Electronic Dance Music. It's the dynamic production and the energy of the crowd that really gets me going.
5.You've been here for over 10 years now, but when you first came to America did you experience any culture shock? Are there still things you don't understand about American culture?
America wasn't too much of a culture shock for me. I had recently been living in Tokyo before I came here and that was definitely a culture shock. It was sushi for breakfast and underwear in a vending machine. So after that experience America seemed pretty familiar. Not to mention in the UK we grow up watching so much American Television you kind of get it.
6. Last but not least, what is absolutely proven to make you laugh?
My 2 1/2 year old daughter. Just about everything she does.
By: Jessica Appelstein
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