We all know DJ Suss One as a talented DJ, distinguished radio personality, and an exceptional music producer. However, we have yet to be taken into his world before his DJing days. What helped build the DJ we see today? Who is the man behind the highly respected name he has made for himself throughout the music industry? We sat down with DJ Suss One to talk about Steven Sussman, the man, not the DJ.
DJ Suss One was born in Brooklyn on November 8th to Raymond and Peggy Sussman. His father, Roman, found a career as a successful criminal lawyer. When Suss was 8 years old, they moved to Westchester, NY; here is where his passion for DJing was founded and developed. Aside from several retail jobs he held throughout his teenage years such as an employee at his local CVS, Suss’ passion has always remained in the DJing world. Starting in his house when he was only 13 years old, DJ Suss One quickly graduated from his in-home performances to DJing in a professional capacity during events in high school. During our interview, he recalled a high school party in which he surprised and impressed his friends by mixing four records; the crowd went crazy.
When asked what prompted him to start DJing, he talked about how his uncle would always give him mixtapes which fostered his love for music. Having always listened to mixtapes in the car with his uncle, he fell in love with how his idols blended and brought mixes together. Some of his biggest influences include: Ron G, Kid Capri, Red Alert, DJ Clue, and SNS. One of his biggest hobbies is collecting retro items that remind him of his childhood. He even owns an Instagram account displaying these items called @thatsclassic.
DJ Suss One began his foothold within the music industry as an intern for Sony music. Occupying a small part in one of the industry’s largest names, he was able to create an immediate strong foundation in New York City’s music scene. He later went on to DJ for iHeart Radio‘s Power 104.1 and eventually moved on to one of the largest stations in the country iHeart Radio’s Power 105.1. Through this exposure he was later connected with Mariah Carey and served as her DJ during her 2006 residency with Caesars in Las Vegas. With so much experience, it is no surprise that DJ Suss One had been awarded a Global Spin Award presented by Revolt TV and named Online Satellite DJ of the year.
When talking about his latest venture, Feature Presentation, he mentioned Jay Z and Puff Daddy as the businessmen he looks up to. The Feature Presentation is a company created by DJ Suss One to combine his passion for music and movies. Website visitors are provided with the latest information regarding artists and actors, upcoming films, TV shows, and streaming services through articles, music videos, and movie trailers. This website is an all-in-one solution to headline-worthy stories within the entertainment industry.
Written by: Shivani Chauhan and Celia Richie
Edited by: Alex Poulios