This week our Creative Learning team kicks off a brand-new Roundtable series (14 December), offering our Young Creatives Network the chance to gain valuable insights and inspiration from professionals within the creative industries. The debut event will feature none other than music legend, Hot Chip’s Alexis Taylor. Not only that, but Alexis will then be joining local and upcoming DJs by performing a set at Rhythm Stick (14 December) – our inclusive club night curated by and for adults with disabilities.

With all this going on, we had to chat to the man himself…

Alexis, how did you come to DJ at Rhythm Stick? 

I have been working with Alexandra Palace to plan some events with and around what they organise, and Mark Civil (the Palace’s Head of Creative Learning) suggested I get involved in this which sounds very interesting to me. Having an inclusive and safe space to listen and to DJ or perform is so important for young music makers and fans of music. There isn’t one type of musician, or one way to do things, and I think it’s so brilliant that Rhythm Stick is promoting the idea of a creative place for all to get involved.

How important was music to you when you were growing up – and how vital is it that initiatives continue to provide people opportunities like this?

Music was everything to me growing up. And having spaces to work on music with school friends (at lunch time at school) was essential to me finding my way into music.

Can you let us know what to expect from your DJ set on the night?

I often play dance and pop music, as well as reggae and soul. I like to play an eclectic mix which is up tempo and fun and throw in things people may not know alongside some undeniable electro pop masterworks.

What are your top DJing tips?

Try to read the room but at the same time be confident in what you want to play, as ultimately you’re not a Spotify playlist, and if people just want that they can have it. Listen carefully for the energy of the music, and don’t be drawn too far in by diagrams of wave forms, peaks and troughs, and tempos. Usually, you are right when the DJ software is a bit off. Look after your hearing!!! I said don’t have the booth too loud and wear earplugs!!

What is your advice to young creatives looking to develop their career in the industry?

Be yourself, try to find your own voice. Don’t manufacture something false. Find collaborators who help make what you do something better and something elevated beyond what you could do alone. If you find good collaborators stick with them. Try new things, experiment, enjoy playing.

What is your connection with Alexandra Palace – and can you tell us a bit about performing there?

I live next to the Palace and walk through Alexandra Park every day, and now work on music in a studio there too. The leafy surroundings and the space of the park, and nature, have been transformative for me, and the event spaces are wonderful as are the staff who work there. I have been offered a great opportunity to work on music inside the Palace which is a rare treat, and seeing certain bands play there, as well as getting to collaborate with the BBC Concert Orchestra for Radio 3, in the newly renovated theatre, was a life highlight.

Rhythm Stick Inclusive Club Night ft. Alexis Taylor and A Roundtable with… both take place on 14 December at Marcus Garvey Library in Tottenham. Full details here