Station 23 Celebrates 2-year Anniversary

In Southern California, Los Angeles is rightfully considered the Mecca of entertainment where musicians strive to earn a living and harbor hopes of achieving success that few ever realize.  These musicians include disc jockeys (djs) who are just as celebrated for their musical selections, whatever genre that may be.  A particular niche of eclectic djs have spawned in recent years, and have provided a basis for counterculture that refutes mainstream music centered on big money and heavy commercial radio rotation.  These djs spin records of varying genres, including hip hop, funk, soul, Latin, and much more.  Roughly 30 minutes southeast of Los Angeles is the city of Fullerton in Orange County where Station 23 currently throws their event.  Station 23 started as an internet radio show that focused on eclectic music and djs, but has now become a live event in the Soco District of downtown Fullerton.  Dubbed as the “music journalism jam” by its founder, Os-B, Station 23 recently celebrated its 2-year anniversary of bringing their music to the masses.

“In Orange County, not many events exist that cater to our specific niche,” says Os-B. “Station 23 celebrates these musical selections as well as the local djs who are at the forefront of exposing the music to their respective audience.”

At a Station 23 event, a guest dj will usually mix records (a “set”) for about 30 to 45 minutes and receive an interview from the hosts.  It is a melding of a live performance and radio show at a venue, which is currently at the Continental Room in downtown Fullerton.  The objective is for audiences to enjoy the records spun by the dj and to also learn more about the dj, as well as the inspirations that back their musical selections.  While the shows are being conducted, they are simultaneously recorded and podcasted.  By utilizing podcast technology, the shows can obtain a global audience via the internet.  

“We had over 200 downloads from China one day,” says resident dj and current show director, DJ 671. “It’s amazing how someone in China can be listening to a dj spinning in Southern California on their iPod.”

Live recordings occur every first Saturday of the month from 3pm to 7pm at the Continental Room, giving Station 23 a unique time slot that defies the normal 10pm to 2am club event.  Only the true music fans usually show up and when they do, they are treated to four hours full of unique musical flavors.  Guests have spun a wide variety of music not heard on commercial radio, including, but not limited to organic/conscious hip hop, neosoul, jazz, blues, Afro beat, Brazilian, cumbia, reggae, and varying sub-genres of funk.  Along with guest djs are resident Station 23 selectors, DJ Shortstack, J-Twist, 671, Os-B, and music producer, Ill Wrekrd.