Disco Daddy: 5 questions with DJ and producer Nate Euhus, a regular behind the turntables at Bonhomme’s Beatnik, Celeste and DISCO
After his band-playing days ran their course, Nate Euhus (pronounced YOO-hoo, in case you were wondering and, yes, we’re jealous too) needed to find a way to stay connected to music and performance.
Music for Nate runs deep. Or, as he says when asked to describe his job in 10 words or less, “Musical storyteller with a fundamental need to groove.” DJing gave him that opportunity. Also known as LA*Jesus, Nate is celebrated for his unique talent for telling improvisational musical stories that never fail to leave his audience feeling good. (Come hear for yourself Wednesday evenings at Beatnik, and Saturdays at DISCO and Celeste’s Garden). Discover more about Nate below.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It’s equal parts for me and for the audience, whether it’s the dance floor at DISCO or the dining room at Beatnik. I’m having a good time while trying to exceed expectations. To be supported in my part-time ‘left field journeyman’/part-time ‘disco daddy’ DJ career is a privilege.
WHAT SKILLS DOES SOMEONE NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL AT YOUR JOB?
The technical skills are one thing (actually lots of things, which take years to perfect). People have asked me about what it takes to be a DJ and the first thing that always comes to mind is, Well, do you REALLY LOVE MUSIC? Like is it an addiction? A thirst that shall never be quenched? If so, maybe you can make it.
WHERE DO YOU GO FOR INSPIRATION?
An obvious answer is someplace warm and beautiful, maybe that I’ve never been to before. I certainly feel inspired and energized after a vacation. But honestly, inspiration is all around. I find myself taking pics of all kinds of ordinary things while just walking down the street, things which, given a different context or perspective become beautiful or cool. I feel inspired in those moments.
DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY OFF.
My perfect day off would be amidst many other days off, spent in a tropical place, preferably Kauai, with Dana, my bride-to-be, hearing good music we’ve never heard before.
IF YOU WERE A SONG WHICH ONE WOULD YOU BE?
Might seem funny, but I’ve got to go with “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. Just really resonates and has a universal appeal: the resistance to being held down, believing in and trusting oneself, and confidently marching forward against all odds. I think it is without a doubt *THE* top tune of the Disco era, worthy of more respect than it’s given, and when I drop it on a Saturday night at DISCO I treat it as such. The full, eight minute 12” remix plays every time, and everyone just basks in the glory.
