In 2002 you were awarded an MBE for “DJing and services to music.” How has that impacted you as a person and your career in music?
I can’t really measure it. But it has afforded me a kind of respect from the government, establishments and royalty. Since then, I’ve been called Sir, Godfather, Your Highness, the works. It is a nice feeling to be respected for the thing that you love doing. Just last week, I got a call from The University of Hertfordshire and they will be honoring me with a Doctorate in music in October this year. It is truly an honor.
How has your year been?
It has been a fantastic year! I had my best start in three years with wonderful gigs in New Zealand, China and South Africa. Not to mention, the ones I had in UK and Europe. I am heading up to play in some of the biggest UK festivals like Glastonbury and V Festival and am expecting around 50,000 people for the party.
From helping set up KISS.FM in the 80s till now, how do you think music has evolved?
Radically. We are in the digital revolution and that explains everything. Live music is being recorded digitally in the studios and bedroom DJs and producers are manipulating sounds to create something new. I am comfortable in both areas. I never thought I would ever be reliant on technology but times have changed.
We can’t wait to be partying with you at Zouk Sir!
Come with an open mind, a big smile and a good attitude. You’ll be hearing house, some old classics, jazz, disco and even some dubstep if I feel like it.
Hail the music of Sir Norman Jay at SOUL:FUNK:DISCO:VERY, May 20, 10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $28-35 includes two drinks.
