Several nights a week one can hear the sounds of Steve Sidewalk echoing throughout New York city’s venues. as one of gay nightlife’s top DJs, his sounds are crisp and varied. He has an unbelievable following and a unique style of spinning, plus having had a personal experience with him, i can say that he is one of those DJs who is actually not a diva. Last year Steve did the GET OUT! AWARDS, and happily he will be DJing again at this year’s awards on October 5.
What brought you into the business of DJing, and how long have you been doing it?
I’ve been DJing for over 15 years. I started when I was a teenager promoting Gay Youth Dances with my local LGBT group, and I would hire the DJ and tell them what my friends and I wanted to hear, since I was in charge. Once I turned 18 I started going to clubs and would try to get the DJs to play songs by bands like Blink 182 and ska covers of ‘80s songs. Most said no. So I became a DJ to play them. Still to this day when I spin “All the Small Things” by Blink, people go crazy, and it’s a nice reminder of my early days.
You are one of the most popular DJs in NYC. Why do you think that is?
Thanks. I try to be very modest. I don’t ever let the DJ ego get the best of me. I also know that the only reason why I get to do this job that I love night after night is because of the customers. Most DJs hate requests. I welcome them. I also shout out birthdays and anniversaries. I am here for the people who want to party. I want to give them the best time possible.
A lot of the other DJs say that you are a Top 40 DJ; however, I have heard you on several occasions and have not found that to be true. What’s your “spin” on that?
I read the crowd. When I see it’s a house-type crowd, I actually play house. Or EDM, or hip hop, or diva anthems, disco, Latin or Top 40 music. I am proud to say I really know music very well, and I am very versatile in my style. Every party is different, and it’s my job as the DJ to figure out what the crowd wants to hear. Bottom line, if you have a crazy dance floor, that’s all that matters. Some DJs in a smaller room try too hard to be that DJ that spins at a circuit party, or they DJ for themselves, and they end up with no dance floor. I DJ for everyone in my room and try to make the majority happy.
You are going to do the Get Out! Awards again this year. How did it go last year?
It was so much fun! I really enjoyed seeing the “who’s who” in nightlife. Always an honor to be involved with this magazine!
What do you see in the near future in music styles or genres?
I think hip hop music and dance music will always be popular. Maybe in different forms, but still there. Personally, I’d like to see music with guitars make a comeback. I really love guitars, but that’s me personally.
How about the future for the New York club scene, gay and straight?
With more and more acceptance, it seems to be becoming mixed. But I think gays will always want a place they can go to where they can meet other guys who like guys. Also, straight people aren’t always into the same music. I can’t always get away with Britney Spears and Lady Gaga marathon sets in the straight world. Gays love their divas.
Tell me a little bit about you: Where were you born and raised?
I’ve been born and raised and always lived in Bergen County, New Jersey, just minutes from NYC. In fact, I can see the skyline well. I do consider myself a New Yorker as well. I’ve been there enough to practically live there. And where I am from is really just like another borough to the city.
If you were a porn star, what would your name be?
Steve Sidewalk! I’d keep my name but add a perverted twist that I have sex only on public sidewalks. I am sure there is a market for that!
If you were a superhero, what would your powers be and why?
I know this is not a superhero, but being a vampire would be awesome. I like the idea of flying and living forever. Immortality is really the superpower I’d love the most. I really love being alive and experiencing as much a I can. Also, vampires are hot.
Favorite color?
Yellow. It was the only color I had a hard time pronouncing as a toddler. I used to say “lellow,” but soon overcame it, and it became my favorite. I guess I always loved a challenge.
Favorite cocktail?
The Sidewalk, as I call it: vanilla Vodka and Diet Coke!
Tell us where and when you can be found?
Gay College Tuesdays at BPM Nightclub (18+). Wednesdays at Feathers in River Edge, New Jersey (21+). Evoke Thursdays at Eve in Staten Island (18+). Viva Saturdays at Stage 48 (21+).
I also do rotating spots on Fridays, including clubs in New England and the NYC area.
