I was delighted to give a talk and demonstration on the history of 78 rpm records at the Sister Bay/ Liberty Grove Library in Door County, Wisconsin on July 6th. We listened to some rare records from my collection (including Blind Lemon Jefferson on Paramount!) as we learned about the history of recorded music from the first half of the twentieth century. Thanks so much to Christina for inviting me and all the great folks at the library!
DAVID WATKINS DJ: VINTAGE MUSIC - REAL RECORDS
"The party rode on the wings of David’s sensational selections, setting the perfect mood for the fab festivities!" --Charles Phoenix, The Ambassador of Americana
“If you want an eclectic mix of music that is fun and varied and all full of cheer, you should check out David Watkins. He is… Awesome!” — DJ Lance Rock, Yo Gabba Gabba
Specializing in unique and sophisticated vintage music in a wide variety of styles, as well as Christmas music people actually want to listen to, Los Angeles DJ David Watkins spins thoughtfully curated sets from real records (78s, 45s & LPs) on modern equipment, bringing an analog feel to a digital world. Clients include Charles Phoenix, Bob Baker Marionette Theater, Live Nation, and the Magic Castle.
Find me on Instagram here!
Well folks, spinning 78s at the legendary Hollywood Palladium for The Growlers was the biggest Halloween thrill I could ask for.
I feel lucky to have played some of the most historic places in Los Angeles, and being on that iconic stage is something I'll never forget! You can see video below.
I had a great time spinning ukulele and Hawaiian music from the 1920s to the 1940s on 78rpm at an anniversary party for the Jumpin’ Flea Circus, a group of ukulele enthusiasts who’ve been meeting to strum their ukes in Sherman Oaks for 15 years! Thanks to all the fleas for the warm welcome and the chance to spin some of my all time favorite records. The joint was jumpin’!
I had the opportunity to work a lot of great events this spring, including spinning a swinging all-45rpm set for the incomparable Charles Phoenix at the spectacular Valley Relics Museum in May. The cars, the neon, the Kodachrome! An outrageously fun time was had by all.
Other cool gigs included Ladies Night at Playclothes Vintage Fashions in Burbank and a private party and performance on Museum Row in L.A.!
Check out the photos below.
I’m available to bring my collection of rare vinyl or shellac (78rpm records) to your event, and can spin on modern gear or on two wind-up Victolas. See my sample set lists to inspire ideas for your spring or summer bash!
My new "victrola" service is up and running. I can DJ your event on two wind-up record players from the 1930s -- no electricity required. It's a fun, portable, and highly engaging show. (I have to crank the players and change the needle between each song!) It allows me to bring music almost anywhere. Sets include wild, weird, and wonderfully evocative 1920s and 30s dance, jazz, international, Hawaiian, hillbilly music and more, all on 78rpm records. See pics below or more photos and video here.
If you want to hear for yourself, I'll be cranking it up at the Topanga Vintage Market on November 25.
I'll be launching my new "victrola" service at several events starting this Sunday. I can now DJ your event on two wind-up record players from the 1930s -- no electricity required. It's a fun, portable, and highly engaging show. (I have to crank the players and change the needle between each song!) It allows me to bring music almost anywhere. Sets include wild, weird, and wonderful 1920s and 30s dance, jazz, international, Hawaiian, hillbilly music and more, all on 78rpm records. See pics from a private party below.
If you want to hear for yourself, I'll be cranking it up at the Encino Farmer's Market this Sunday, August 26th, and at the Topanga Vintage Mart on November 25.
Hello Friends,
It's the hottest L.A. summer on record, so I've been breaking out the beach and BBQ tunes! I've got a variety of sets to keep your summer soirees cool including vintage Hawaiian music, classic R&B and blues, and 60s surf & beach instrumentals. As always, sets are all vinyl or shellac (78rpm). Check out my set lists here or email me for more details.
Best,
David
I rang in the New Year in my straw boater with the Great Cardini playing a four hour all-78rpm set from the 1920s at one of my very favorite places in the world -- the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood -- for their roaring 20's New Year's Eve celebration. What a way to begin 2018!
Photo by AMA photographer Taylor Wong.