Published 08.09.08 —

Bassline — So, who is B.A.D. Ass. Productions?

DVS — B.A.D. Ass. or the “Broke Ass DJ Association,” is a collective of hard-working and motivated disc jockeys from around the U.S. and hopefully one day the world. Different from most companies, we’ve designed various management programs in order to help our performers become more successful through their work ethic and dedication to music and entertainment. Through these programs, and their work ethic, our DJs are offered many perks including endless local gigs and the opportunity to travel and play at our other branches around the U.S.

Bassline — How long have you guys been around? Are you based in Cleveland?

DVS — We’re actually based in Pittsburgh, PA. B.A.D. Ass. was established in 2005, although, our management programs were not put into use until 2006 when we first expanded into Cleveland, OH and Morgantown, WV. Now in 2008, we currently have branches set up in eight major cities around the U.S.: Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Morgantown, Buffalo, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., San Francisco and Seattle.

Bassline — It seems that you guys have been bringing the bigger, quality events to the Cleveland area. From Dieselboy and Technical Itch to Atomic Babies. Can you talk about that and what events you've done in the past?

DVS — The Broke Ass DJs always aim to be the best we can be. Although we predominantly focus on our local talent, we still like to go over the top when the time and money is available. Guess you can call these bigger events a “thank you,” for all the continued support of our smaller events.

Bassline — Who have you collaborated with in the past?

DVS — Too many to list. Since the Broke Ass DJ Association is involved with a lot of different cities, we have the opportunity to work with a lot of outstanding companies.

Bassline — Do you primarily use Metropolis as your venue? Have you done shows in other locations?

DVS — In Cleveland, I think we’ve used Metropolis more then any other venue at this point. Our current AP (which means one manages B.A.D. Ass. within one's city ... events, artist management among other responsibilities) in our Cleveland branch, Evasion, has used numerous venues throughout the city over the last couple years.

Bassline — Who do you look to bring in the future? What events do you have lined up if any?

DVS — We always have events lined up in all of our branches, but refuse to let the cat out of the bag until everything is finalized. As far as who we decide to bring in as a exclusive act, we generally let the public make those decisions. We want to bring in acts that the public will enjoy, not necessarily our favorite performers.

Bassline — When planning shows, what do you hope to bring to the ravers and club-goers?

DVS — A good time, one to remember. We like to go the extra mile when it comes to the actual production. Quality acts, quality sound/lighting, quality décor, a fair price and a safe and secure venue. We’ll even go as far as “cherry-picking” while promoting, just to make sure the right kind of people come out and the wrong kind stay home.

Bassline — Would you say it's harder to throw events now, than say, 10 years ago?

DVS — Yes and no … 10 years ago the EDM Scene was 10 times bigger, so it was easier to make the money back on the event. But with 10 times the people, there were a lot more headaches.

Bassline — Anything else you'd like to add about your production crew?

DVS — Very few of the world’s DJs make their living off the music. The rest, we do it for the love. When I started the Broke Ass DJ Association, I wanted to start a group that every disc jockey could relate to. At the same time, I wanted a system that could help these DJs become more successful through continued hard work and dedication. Whether it's traveling from city to city to play records, or throwing a great party for our locals, our system has proven that any DJ with a positive attitude and a hard work-ethic can shine.

Upcoming B.A.D. Ass. productions include:

8.15.08 — "TriUMF" Butler, PA

8.29.08 — "Foundation" Pittsburgh, PA

9.21.08 — "5th Annual Walk in the Park"

9.27.08(day) — “Bitches and Gentlemen 2” Cincinnati, OH

9.27.08(night) — "Coexist" Pittsburgh, PA

10.17.08 — "Ultra Bar" Washington D.C.

10.31.08 — "Get Spooky 2" Pittsburgh, PA

For more info on these events, visit myspace.com/brokeassdjassociation