Marius Koopman has been DJing at corporate functions, parties, club events and productions for over 21 Years, and has shared the stage with some of South Africa’s finest artists such as Dr Victor & the Rasta Rebels, Vicky Sampson, The Parlotones, Denim, David Kau, Trevor Noah, Kurt Schoonraad, Kurt Darren, Dozi, and Theuns Jordaan, to mention a few. We are lucky he found some time in his busy schedule to chat to ZAlebs.
Do you have stage name?
My stage name is actually my real name. DJ Marius. This was the name I used since I started DJ'ing. And it is the same name that landed me all the achievements thus far.
What gave you that initial push? Did the Djing, production or promoting come first?
I would say that I always had a lively interest in music and my late uncle, who I grew up with, was actually a huge influence, in that he used to buy all the latest music and I was listening to it, with him of course. I first started doing DJ'ing, and then the promotion aspect came a little bit later. Now I'm considering the production part as a means of growing the brand.
Who's throwing the best parties at the moment?
Here in Johannesburg, where I'm residing at the moment, are quite a lot of promoters that throw the one killer party after the other in venues like Vacca Matta and Nikki beach.
Which other countries have you played in?
I was fortunate enough to do some gigs in our neighbouring countries like Namibia, Swaziland and Zambia.
What was the first event you ever played at?
I started out as a mobile DJ and the first gig I've ever done was in a hall on a farm. Humble beginnings...
What's the best event you've played at?
I was chosen as one of two DJs to perform at the New Year’s Eve party 2010 in the Superbowl, Sun City. The magnitude of this event was mind-blowing in every aspect.
What was your first record you bought?
The first vinyl I ever bought was Everybody, Everybody - Black Box.
Out of all the tunes you have, which one 'never fails’ to get people dancing?
Robin S - Show me love is such an epic song. It will just never go out of fashion; in fact it is becoming more popular by the day. And it is also a song that's been enjoyed by people from different races and cultures. Always guarantee to get the people going.
What's your favourite tune of all time?
Whitney Houston - How will I know. Girly song or not, it will always be my favourite. Whitney was and will always be a LEGEND.
When you play is it a pre-planned set or do you wing it?
I have never in my whole career of 23 years, played a pre-planned set. I go in, get a feel of the crowd and let them decide the mood and the style the music is gonna go on a specific night.
When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?
Going home and sleep. LOL. I like to switch off and just be chilled at home...WITH NO LOUD MUSIC.
How big is your vinyl collection? What do you think of CDJ's?
I still have a vinyl collection of over 400 records although I stopped using them long time ago. I use CDJ's at the moment, but I'm in the process of buying my first controller. So ja...I'm moving with the times. Technology waits for nobody.
Funniest thing that ever happened at an event?
At the same NYE party in the Superbowl, the lead singer of the band that was playing around midnight was supposed to do the countdown. Three minutes after midnight he still didn't do it, so the crowd started doing their own countdown. EPIC FAIL!
Other DJs you rate?
I think Gareth Cliff is quite a capable DJ. I was actually pleasantly surprised when I heard him play for the first time. But the DJ I think has got it all, is Cape Town DJ and resident Dj at the Galaxy, Dr Jules.
What do you do outside of the dance music scene?
I'm a keen rugby follower. And my favourite team is the Stormers and Western Province. So I like to go watch them whenever I get the chance.
What advice would you give to up and coming DJs/Promoters?
If you keep doing things the right way, surely you gonna have the right outcome. No shortcuts.
How can fans connect with you on social media?
I have a page on Facebook called DJ Marius - Resident DJ at Katzy's. My personal profile is Marius Koopman. And I also have my own band now. It is a corporate cover band, called Concert Boulevard and we also have a Facebook page called Concert Boulevard.
Pictures: http://www.5seasons.co.za and Facebook