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Based in Tokyo, DJ SARASA a.k.a. Silverboombox’s crossover selection of Hip Hop, Funk, Disco, Soul, Breakbeats and House music, enables her to cater to any crowd at ease. Her turntablist party rocking skills, stage presence which includes breakdancing while DJing, and overall zest for music makes her one of the most acclaimed DJs in Japan.
After starting her career at the age of 18 as a college radio DJ in Canada, in 2006, she was involved in the marketing campaign for the launch of the movies “Dave Chappelle’s Block Party” and “RIZE” nationwide.
Having performed and U.S.A., Canada, Japan, Dubai, Malasia and many more, DJ SARASA is a proven world-class performer. She continues to make contribution to the music scene with her eclectic selection, and without a doubt became the promoter’s first choice to open up for overseas acts when they come to Japan.
What are your earliest memories of music?
When I was in New York growing up and my parents and I were in the car listening to soul music driving on the Brooklyn Bridge, it really synced well to the scenery overlooking Manhattan. That is probably my earliest memory of music influencing me.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a DJ?
I never knew that I would want to be a full-time DJ until I worked for a film production company in Japan. I did the Japanese production and marketing for Dave LaChappelle’s film, RIZE. I was working really hard, 24/7, and I realized that I wanted to work for myself.
Who were your influences when starting out?
I became a full-time DJ from 2006 and my biggest influence at that time was DJ Krush for the reason that he was a great example of a successful Japanese artist making it all over the world.
What was your first big break as a DJ?
My first big break was 10 months into my career when I opened for Lupe Fiasco for the G-Shock 25th Anniversary and I played right after DJ Muro’s set. That was an extremely nerve-wrecking but amazing experience for me.
You have released a variety of mixtapes over the years how do you approach making them?
Yes, I have released 16 mixtapes in total so far. I have a special mixtape crate that gets filled up on the daily and I create each mixtape based on a specific concept. For example, the concept of KWANZAA (2010) is based on the diaspora of influential African roots artists where I translated their message and lyrics in Japanese for my fans in Japan to understand.
You are a member of the Universal Zulu Nation how important is to be a part of it?
It is an honor to be a part of an organization that represents like-minded people who have a universal consciousness and who represent the hip hop movement in a positive way.
Describe to us the Hip Hop scene in Japan?
The hip hop scene in Japan is unfortunately not as poppin’ as it used to be because of the closing down of record shops and also the bad economy from mid 2000s. However, Japanese hip hop heads still continue to appreciate the roots and history of the hip hop culture so it is still growing. There is also a great respect in Japan for DJs and I am definitely proud to be a part of the Japanese hip hop scene.
Which artists do you think best represent Japanese Hip Hop?
BUDDHA BRAND, DJ Kentaro, and Shing02.
What one thing does Hip Hop in Japan need right now?
More international collaborations.
You have your own clothing and accessory label Mynority Classics what is the meaning behind the brand?
The MY in MYNORTY represents your own identity as in it’s MY style and also to not let your individual uniqueness to classify you as a minority in the negative sense of the word. There is nothing wrong with NOT being part of the majority.
Where do you draw your inspiration from for your designs?
I get inspired in every place I visit and tour so the design of each MYC (Mynority Classics) piece is pretty much a reflection of the different hip hop influences that surround me during my journeys.
What are some of your best selling items?
The best selling item so far are the hip hop playing cards.
What 5 songs are you currently listening to?
I am currently listening to Julien Dyne- Rago, Masia One- Errrybody Get It Up (feat. Isis Salam & DJ Dopey), Onra- Sitting Back, Hudson People- Trip to Your Mind, Ghost- Basic Instinct.
What advice would you give to aspiring DJ’s wanting to make it a career?
Practice hard, take risks that will determine your skills as a DJ, and market yourself with a lot of thought.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?
When I went to India this year in May, I rocked a crowd of kids who didn’t even own a pair of shoes. That is definitely my most memorable moment for me as a DJ, when I felt no boundaries through music.
What does the future hold for DJ SARASA?
For the rest of 2012, I will be touring Australia, Canada, New York, and then going back to Tokyo for end of the year events. In 2013, so far I am booked for shows in India and am playing with Illa J in Detroit. After that I don’t know what the future holds but I am excited to find out!
What’s your definition of Grindin’?
Grindin’ to me means… to do the best you can in the situation without complaining.