Black History Month: Stacey Pullen

Black History Month: Stacey Pullen

23 February, 2011 | 2.30AM

• Written by: Justin Jack
• Filed under: Music News: black history month, blackflag recordings, stacey pullen

Mentored by pioneers Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson, Stacey Pullen is an icon of Detroit’s “second wave.” A DJ and producer who continues to travel the world, flying the flag for the Motor City’s groundbreaking sound, Stacey talks to us about his inspirations, mentors, and musical accomplishments for Black History Month.

Can you tell us a little about your roots?

Born in Detroit! The city that brought you revolutionary black music starting with Berry Gordy’s Label Motown Records. My dad was performing with the group The Capitols, so there was always music in my early years. 

In recognition of Black History Month, who are your mentors or heroes within black culture, and how have they impacted your own music and career?

Creativity-wise, I would say people like Jean Michel Basquiat, who was just insane when it came to creativity. From an intellectual perspective, people like Cornel West, who is an excellent scholar and proof that “knowledge is power.” Musically speaking, I would have to say Berry Gordy, because his vision with giving the Motown sound still stands unprecedented.

And how have they inspired your own work?

Being inspired keeps me creative, musically speaking, and able to be socially aware of my presence. Oh, and of course being a part of my Detroit musical heritage. Further inspirations are Derrick May, Mr. Fingers, Detroit techno, Chicago house. Kyle Hall is the future of our music.

Did you have any help or mentors getting into the studio and learning the ropes?

Yes, and it was the first guy who I made music with to the last person with whom I was in the studio with—it’s never-ending.

For you, what are the important links between house/electronic music and African-American culture?

Naturally, coming straight from the soul is the link. What took place with my ancestors and with house/techno/electronic music was and is a Movement.

As electronic music has become more global, do you ever worry that it has lost contact with its roots?

Yes, that’s why me and my other comrades travel as ambassadors for our music, and there are not many of us.

At what point did you feel your career started to take off?

My first gig was the point where my career started to take off, because I knew from this point there was no turning back.

What’s happening with you right now?

My production schedule has been very busy. I just released “Limmo” with Nic Fancuilli; my new track “Get Up” is out in March on my label Blackflag Recordings; my collab with Mirko Loko is just about done, and a remix for the artist Manon is out soon on Desolat. And a heavy schedule of touring also.

Stacey Pullen & Nic Fancuilli, “Limmo” [Saved]

Stacey Pullen Black History Month Chart

Stacey Pullen

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