WESU DJs in the World with Miles Brooks ’20
We’re back with another edition of WESU in the World, a series that will feature interviews from various WESU DJs and fans from around the world to check in with them to see how they’re doing and what they’re up to as we face the covid-19 crisis together. We hope these interviews will remind you of the value of the non-commercial content WESU provides to the Middletown community, and the world. Right now, WESU must raise more than usual to balance our books. If you are feeling particularly inspired or generous, please feel free to donate to our Spring Pledge Drive at http://wesufm.org/pledge to keep Free-Form Radio alive! We recognize that times are tough for all and not everyone has the ability to give, but we would be grateful for any amount you can contribute. Even a penny counts!
Our second guest in the series features Miles Brooks ’20, a soon to be former DJ at the station (single tear). Check out the interview below!
Luke: Thanks for taking the time to talk with me Miles! First off, where are you and how are you?
Miles: No problem Luke! Hope you are doing well. I am currently in Seattle, WA sheltering with my girlfriend’s family. I am doing well especially since I finished my last final recently!
What do you miss most about pre-quarantine life that you weren’t expecting to miss?
Honestly hugs and friendly touch. Other than those I am quarantining with, I have not been able to hug or ‘dap up’ my friends. I definitely find comfort in friendly touch, so it’s been hard to fill that void
What are some of the things that have been on your mind while staying at home?
I’ve been thinking a lot about the environment and our future as a society. Will COVID-19 be the catalyst to more social policies or action on climate change? Because people are being laid off, losing health-care, and unable to pay for COVID treatment, I believe there is a strong case for medicare-for-all. Also during shelter-in-place, emissions from transportation are dramatically lower and overall consumption is lower. I hope that this time makes people realize what is truly essential. Maybe driving a personal vehicle 50 miles everyday or buying new clothes every month is not necessary anymore. These decisions will have substantial effects on our society and environment if everyone does it. I’ve also been thinking about food distribution. Currently farms have so much food and no where to sell them because restaurants and stores are using a lot less produce. Meanwhile, people are unable to afford food and going hungry. There needs to be better ways to get food directly to people. Nur Fitzpatrick (aka DJ Window) and GRO Dreamville are working to get food from farms to people during SIP through the Middletown Mutual Aid. I am impressed by people’s generosity and initiative during this time.
Any new hobbies?
I have been working out much more than usual. Warm, sunny weather on the West Coast means I can hang outside and exercise more. I have also been gardening and planted some tomatoes, sunflowers, and native bushes in my parent’s yard.
How long have you been a DJ?
Since Spring 2017 — 3 years.
What show(s) have you broadcast in the past at WESU?
Jazzalicious Definition with MC Macgee. And Middletown Youth Radio Project
Do you remember your first show?
I do not remember my first show… but I do remember my first internship. I think it was on 75% folk with Michael Benson. I played some Miles Davis tunes and hip-hop that sampled him. That became a staple for Jazzalicious Definition.
Do you miss being on air at WESU?
I miss kicking back with the studio volume high and lights off. I miss rambling with MC Macgee and DJ Window about random things from basketball to community gardens. I also really miss MYRP and the kids from the neighborhood.
What kind of music are you listening to right now?
Right now St. Germain, a house and jazz fusion artist. Great for dancing or doing homework to. I also made a playlist full of songs recommended by friends. The prompt was “a song that makes you happy, like driving by the beach with the windows down when the sun is out, or sitting in the garden”. It was cool to get a range of new music from people. Some songs include “Hunnybee” by Unknown Mortal Orchestra, “Feel Good Song” by Solange, and “Warm Love” by Van Morrison.
Do you have any favorite moments or memories associated with WESU?
I’ve had some amazing guests in the studio including CT rapper Ny Navy and the Chicago-based Circles and Ciphers group. Those were both really fun because they brought lots of energy and talent to the studio. It was awesome to hear them freestyle live on air!
Why should people care about WESU?
People should care about WESU because it is the most authentic insight into non-mainstream music. You have many experienced music listeners and public affairs broadcasters who will give you lots of great content to keep you occupied and mentally stimulated during quarantine.
Thanks to Miles again for taking the time to speak with us. If you’re feeling generous, you can donate to wesufm.org/pledge to donate to our Spring Pledge Drive. Free Form Forever!
