DJ Sumation made a splash on the music scene when he co-founded AsianXPress (AKA AX) in 2000 and started throwing the first gay Asian-themed parties in Toronto. Now a fixture on the nightlife scene, his schedule is beyond packed for World Pride 2014, but he still took time out of his busy life to fill us in on where we can find him spinning this week. Hint: everywhere.
Tell us a bit about yourself. What should people know?
I was introduced to dance music around age 5 when my parents took me out to watch them ballroom dance. Since then, I have been spending hours listening to all genres of dance music and watching people dance. By chance, I started DJing as an amateur in November of 2000 when I co-founded AX and continued at various venues. My big break came when AX landed at 5ive Nightclub in 2003. I was very fortunate to have the owners and manager take a chance on me to become one of the resident DJs until the club closed its doors in 2006.
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After that I was given many opportunities to continue DJing at amazing venues like Circa, Comfort Zone, FLY Nightclub, the BARN, CLUB120, and many others. A few highlight events in Toronto: WinterCity Festival 2010, TIFF Grand Opening Gala, Fashion Cares 2006, Pride Toronto Spotlight DJ 2008, and many PRISM events. On the international front I got the chance to play at Splash (New York), and in Brazil, Vietnam, and Japan over the last few years. I love DJing, sending out positive energy, and partying with everyone on the floor.
A few more things people to know about me? I love cooking and fashion as well.
Where will you be performing at World Pride Toronto and what can we expect?
I’ve performed at a few events for World Pride already, and here are the shows still coming up…
1. Zipperz/Cellblock, late hour set, June 26th (THURS)
2. Babylon Pride 2014 at FLY Nightclub, extended set, June 27th (FRI)
3. WorldPride 2014 at the Central Stage, 3:30pm set, June 28th (SAT)
4. Welcome World 2014 Follow The Rainbow at RYZE Nightclub, June 28th (SAT)
5. CAMP & KITSCH World Pride Brunch at Screen Lounge Noon, 5pm set, June 29th (SUN)
6. Deko-ze & CZ presents: CGYFB Pride Edition, 11pm set, June 29th (SUN)
Expect the best of my signature sound with the energetic frequency of musical vibes in all music genres that taps into my fans and audience.
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What events are you most looking forward to at World Pride?
I most looking forward to meeting new fans/friends from all over the world coming to #WP14TO, the premiere union of House of Clubs performance at Pop Asia, catching Courtney Act at Pride by Design, last farewell spin at Babylon Pride at FLY, spinning along side with Jed Harper at RYZE, and World Pride Central Stage.
What is it about Toronto that will make this World Pride so special?
Diversity, vibrant multicultural communities, and the talents in the city.
Favourite restaurant?
I have so many favourite restaurants, but to name a few: RYUS Noodle Bar, very down to earth, friendly staff, and the yummy ramen that you can mix and match; Rol San Restaurant, best dim sum… period; Rodney’s Oyster House, love oysters and everything there tastes so delicious.
What are three things you can’t live without?
Music, movies, and great food.
Let’s get social for a mo’. How do we stay up-to-date with you?
I’m on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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