Five Minutes With: Judge Jules

Boxing Day sees Radio 1 DJ Judge Jules appear at Gatecrasher Birmingham's White Party - The Student Guide caught up with him

Jules, you’ve had another storming year in Ibiza - tell us about that?

With the world’s economy upside-down, you’d be surprised to hear that’s it’s been one of our busiest seasons to date. It’s survival of the fittest in the most competitive clubbing location in the world.  To stay ‘fit’, we’re constantly thinking of ways to improve and keep things fresh. This applies to both décor/entertainment and the DJs we use.  Roll on 2012.

What are your highlights from this year?

The above-mentioned was certainly one of them. I also played many great gigs in all four corners of the world, but closer to home, the SW4 festival in London was definitely one of my highlights. There’s something special about playing a large-scale event in your hometown.

What can we expect from you in 2012?

I’ve got a backlog of completed singles, which will be winging their way to release in early 2012.  DJs are judged as artists predominantly on the basis of their production offerings, and I’ve got a shed load of absolutely wicked tunes ready to burst out.

Any predictions on who will be big in 2012?

Russia’s Arty is making his mark massively on the scene.  I think 2012 will be his year!

Any New Year’s resolutions?

It’s a tricky one - after being asked this question so many times (always going on to fail in my resolutions), I’m a little reticent to commit myself.  Let me think - attempting to go to the gym at least 5 times a week.

Any big acts you’d like to work with?

I’d love to collaborate on a track with Armin Van Buuren or Ferry Corsten- I think we’d cook up some Anglo-Dutch magic. They’re both good mates, but the distance between the UK and Holland is a bit of a factor counting against it.

2012 marks your 15 year anniversary on Radio 1 – what are your best memories?

All my best memories come from the countless Radio 1 live events I’ve performed at.  It’s all very well doing your show in a subterranean studio with a few mates and production staff in tow, but screaming live crowds are where it’s at. 

Next year will also see you bow out from Radio 1, what’s next?

I’ve had an incredible time over the last 14 years at Radio 1. I’m going to continue DJ’ing and I’m having a bit of a career change - I’m off to become an entertainment lawyer at Sheridans.

Finally, you’ve played at Gatecrasher a lot – how does it feel to be returning?

I’ve been playing Gatecrasher longer than any other UK club night and it definitely feels like home.  I’ve got a key to the venue somewhere on my keyring.

Judge Jules appears with Laidback Luke, Eddie Halliwell, Dash Berlin and more at Gatecrasher Birmingham's White Party this Boxing Day.

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