Bad Boy Bill

The Exclaim! Questionnaire

Published Nov 17, 2016

Chicago's Bad Boy Bill is a DJ, producer, songwriter and entrepreneur. His latest mix CD is called Bangin' The Box, Vol. 5. He's currently working on an album of original material.

Current fixations:

I am really into my computer (not in that way, you sickos!). I am working in the studio on music everyday, and Protools running on my Mac has become the centre of my production universe.

Mind-altering work of art:

The Godfather series on DVD. Still my favourite movie(s).

Most memorable or inspirational gig and why?

Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver. Outdoor stadium venue, perfect weather, the sun had just gone down, set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, stunning visuals, the sound was incredible, the crowd was so into it....amazing!

What has been your career high and low?

Career high: Haven't hit it yet.

Low: There really hasn't been one. Everything happens for a reason, and what initially looked like a low, turned out to be the beginning of a new path to follow.

What should everyone shut up about?

Anything negative.

I would drop everything to play a benefit for?

The Exotic Dancer Implant Fund. If there isn't one yet, let's start one.

What trait do you like and dislike most about yourself?

Like: I work very hard when I am focused on a project.

Dislike: Sometimes I work too hard, and forget I have to have a life outside of work.

What would make you kick someone out of your band and/or bed, and have you?

I am a giving person, but if you take something from me without asking, that is called stealing, and "Billy" don't play that. Yes, I have had to remove a few people from my circle because of their thievery.

When I think of Canada I think?

Beautiful women, eh.

What is your vital daily ritual?

Sleep all day....F*** all night.

How do you spoil yourself?

I am a hotel junkie. I will try to stay at the nicest hotel in every city I go to; and if I stay at a hotel that I don't like, I make a note to never stay there again, and to try a different hotel in that city next time.

What was your most memorable day job?

I was doing shipping at one of the most famous house music labels, DJ International, when they were first starting out. I saw all the big DJs, artists and producers when they would come by the label. I was just starting to DJ, so it was very cool for me.

If I wasn't playing music I would be:

I would be a professional basketball player - I'm only 6' 1", but for a white boy I still got some skillz.

What is your greatest fear?

Not enough time.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation. That way I could play a gig in Europe, and blink my eyes, click my heels or whatever, and be at home in Chicago instantly.

What makes you want to take it off and get it on?

Bad music makes me want to take the needle off, and I'm always ready to get it on - music and otherwise.

Music and sex: Is there a difference? Why?

Yes. Music is what I do for a living, and sex is the reward I get for doing it well.

Strangest brush with celebrity:

A friend of mine invited me to a studio session. Upon walking in I realised it was a Dr. Dre (famous hip-hop producer) session. A couple minutes later I'm hangin' out watching Dre work and someone offers me a hit of a joint – I declined. I pass on grass.

Who would be your ideal dinner guest, living or dead, and what would you serve them?

Anthony Robbins. Since he's a vegetarian, it would probably be one of my favourite veggie burgers.

What does your mom wish you were doing instead?

I think she's happy with whatever, as long as I'm happy.


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