DJ Smokey’s Collaborative Magic with Skrillex on ‘Fuck u Skrillex’
In a surprising release earlier this week, Skrillex unveiled his latest album, Fuck u Skrillex, showcasing an unexpected blend of EDM infused with elements from the hip-hop mixtape culture. This project features distinct producer tags reminiscent of the early 2000s, courtesy of DJ Smokey, a notable figure from Montreal’s underground music scene.
The Unique Sound of DJ Smokey
DJ Smokey emerged during the early SoundCloud era, gaining recognition for his beats influenced by Memphis rap. His producer tag, “Legalization of Nuclear Bombs,” became a viral sensation on TikTok, introducing his style to a new audience. In a recent Zoom interview, Smokey expressed appreciation for the mixtape aesthetic, stating, “One of the fun things about listening to mixtapes was the crazy pocket outtag that sounded ten times more than the song. I’ve always fallen in love with something like that.” He believes that many young listeners might not be familiar with figures like Trapaholic or DJ Drama, but his work pays homage to that era.
Background and Influences
Born in Ontario and trained in classical piano, DJ Smokey gradually transitioned to digital production software like FL Studio. His journey through the underground music scene earned him collaborations with prominent artists such as Yung Lean and Lil Peep. He spoke with Rolling Stone about his experience working with Skrillex and the ongoing evolution of EDM.
Inside the Studio with Skrillex
When asked about the process of releasing such a significant record, Smokey shared, “That’s great. I’m really excited. I think people reacted positively, so I’m happy with it.” He described Skrillex as a “grand man,” recognizing his influence in electronic music and expressing gratitude for the collaboration. Although he was uncertain about how much Skrillex knew of his previous work, he noted that his collaborator, Varg, played a pivotal role in connecting them.
Reflecting on their time in the studio, Smokey said, “The energy was wonderful. He just let you do what you’re doing.” This supportive atmosphere allowed them to share ideas freely, with Smokey having direct access to Skrillex’s studio to refine and iterate on their collaborative project.
Producer Tags: The Heart of the Album
Smokey emphasized the significance of the producer tags in making the album enjoyable. “Tags are the most important thing,” he stated, contributing to the record’s playful essence. He added humorous elements and created diverse sounds, enhancing the listening experience while maintaining Skrillex’s artistic vision.
Expanding the Narrative
As for the notable producer tags featured on the album, Smokey hinted at the involvement of iconic voices known for their classic drops. “I don’t want to give it to you much, but the guy I use now did a lot of old iconic tags,” he shared, underscoring the blend of nostalgia and modern creativity in the project.
Discussing the humor within the work, Smokey noted that nothing crossed the line, as Skrillex possesses a great sense of humor. “He has a sense of humor, and while what I came up with went too far, he was never mad about it,” Smokey explained.
Future Projects and Artistic Direction
Looking forward, DJ Smokey is excited to announce a new project with Varg titled EDM, describing it as “evil dance music” that represents their unique blend of electronic and underground influences. Smokey affirmed the role of the “Shadow Wizard Money Gang” from Montreal in shaping his current artistic trajectory, emphasizing collaborations that continue to push boundaries in music.
As he prepares to tour and showcase his new music, Smokey remains dedicated to bringing fresh perspectives to the EDM scene, embodying influences from across his diverse musical journey.