Grandmaster Flash - The Science Of DJ-ing
Show notes
Grandmaster Flash talks to Caro C about the development of his pioneering DJ techniques, including the Quick Mix Theory, seamless looping and the custom modifications that helped turn the turntable into a musical instrument. He also discusses the early Bronx hip-hop scene and his new book, Birth of a Culture, which explores the technical innovations and community behind hip-hop’s origins.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:30 - Early Exposure To Music
06:04 - Developing The Quick Mix Theory
11:26 - Customising The Decks
17:50 - Starting A Movement
20:58 - Getting The First Gigs
23:08 - Honing The DJ Setup
27:14 - Selecting The Right Styluses
30:46 - Telling The Story In A Book
Grandmaster Flash Biog
Grandmaster Flash (Joseph Robert Saddler) is a pioneering hip-hop DJ credited with developing techniques that helped shape turntablism and rap music. His innovations include the Quik Mix Theory and the use of extended drum breaks, while his recordings include The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel (1981). He was the first hip-hop artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received several lifetime achievement honours.
His second book, Birth of a Culture, co-written with journalist Robert “Scoop” Jackson and published in September 2026, explores the techniques, artists and early history of hip-hop.
https://grandmasterflash.com
http://instagram.com/djflash4eva
https://www.facebook.com/grandmasterflashofficial
http://x.com/djflash4eva
Caro C Biog
Caro C is an artist, engineer and teacher specialising in electronic music. Her self-produced fourth album 'Electric Mountain' is out now. Described as a "one-woman electronic avalanche" (BBC), Caro started making music thanks to being laid up whilst living in a double decker bus and listening to the likes of Warp Records in the late 1990's. This 'sonic enchantress' (BBC Radio 3) has now played in most of the cultural hotspots of her current hometown of Manchester, UK. Caro is also the instigator and project manager of electronic music charity Delia Derbyshire Day.
Twitter: @carocsound
Inst: @carocsound
FB: https://www.facebook.com/carocsound/
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Chapters
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