By Donnie E. Sauls
Introducing Haskell DJ Spider Greenidge, acclaimed DJ and producer, born in Barbados and known across the globe for his music, production and collaborations. He recently won the prestigious Soca Collaboration of the Year Award at the Caribbean Music Awards with his collaboration partner GBM Nutron.
This interview is conducted with the acclaimed DJ and producer, DJ Spider, as we learn how his passion for fusing several genres and creating unique melodies has won him several accolades over the years.
Donnie Sauls: Welcome DJ Spider, it is a pleasure to have you speak with me regarding your huge win at the 2023 Caribbean Music Awards. I want your fans to get to know a little more about you. So here are some questions I have for you. First, how did you feel about your recent win at the Caribbean Music Festival?
DJ Spider: I was honored to have received the Caribbean Music Award for collaboration of the year. Being recognized for your hard work on such an historic night is one for the books.
Donnie Sauls: What inspired you to start playing and making music?
DJ Spider: Well, my love for music stems from my years of experience as a DJ. I started very young, working as a helper to my brother-in-law. My experience as a helper allowed me the knowledge needed into to continue with my newfound love of music. I decided to transitions into production to expand my brand and longevity. I’m able to blend several sounds together to create unique sounds in my production. In short, I love making beats.
Donnie Sauls: What do you like most about performing music?
DJ Spider: I enjoy seeing everyone have a great time. It brings me joy and happiness knowing that I’m part of someone’s memory at that moment. So, I always try my hardest to give it my all when I play music. It’s the language that moves the spirit.
Donnie Sauls: Describe your creative process when you write new music.
DJ Spider This is an interesting question; depending on my mood you can get several different song ideas. Once I catch the vibe, I go to the lab, and the process starts. If the beat is rocking, it’s easy to start writing and immediately after, I work on the demo. The rest is history!
Donnie Sauls: How would you describe the music that you typically create?
DJ Spider: I create uplifting Caribbean Music. A world fusion feel–an uplifting Caribbean feel with guitars, drums, bass melodies and a very slight Dance/Afrobeats feel.
Donnie Sauls: Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?
DJ Spider: They say those that listen learn. I’m blessed to have great musicians, engineers, artists, and songwriters in my network. Hearing stories both good and bad about the music industry has allowed me to have a good understanding on the business side of things.
Donnie Sauls: Which qualities do you think make a great musician?
DJ Spider: I’m able to fine tune my sound in order to stand out. I’m very consistent with approach to the industry by thriving to be different.
Donnie Sauls: Is there another musician you consider at mentor?
DJ Spider: Yes I can say I’ve studied production style from Peter Copin a producer from Barbados. I also learned the quality of how music should sound from Andrew Denny, Parry Jack and Johann Seaton. DJ Norie introduced me to his network, and that’s how I learned the business of selling records.
Donnie Sauls: Describe what you’ve done to help them.
DJ Spider: We helped each other, and that’s how it works. My success is theirs because they can gain new clients for the work they have done with me.
Photo courtesy DJ Spider
Donnie Sauls: As a producer, you have some artists you are promoting, who are they?
DJ Spider: The artist I’m promoting is “DJ Spider” to brand myself to the like of a DJ Khalid etc. I work with many artists, so the focus is the promotion of all artists on any of the projects. However I’ve had huge success with Marzville, GBMNUTRON, Klassik Frescobar, Lyrikal & Nessa Preppy currently. My goal is to work with new talented artists to help streamline theirs.
Donnie Sauls: What is the best advice you can give to new artists starting in the business?
DJ Spider: Giving up isn’t the option, be yourself, and have fun. Always be true to your craft and know thyself. Don’t look for instant gratification; keep pushing & continue to market your records.
Donnie Sauls: What is one message you would give to your fans?
DJ Spider: I’m thankful for the love and support of DJ Spider GW Music, with the help of fans allows you to win. In return we all win, because I give it my all for you.
Donnie Sauls: Do you have any upcoming shows?
DJ Spider: Visit my Instagram account @djspider411. Click the link in my bio for all upcoming information or visit https://www.djspider411.com.
Donnie Sauls: What’s next for you?
DJ Spider: The album..you’re gonna love it!
