Austin Gives Back: A Benefit For DJ Melodic

Starsign and Melodic became friends back in 2000 while Starsign was living in Houston. "I was just starting to seriously pursue djing and I met Melodic and Chicken George, as they used to dj together every weekend. I was impressed by their style, chemistry and vibe because it was unlike anything I'd ever heard. We all eventually became friends because we were so fanatical about music and we shared a lot of similar views about life in general."

Chicken George: “I've had the honor of knowing and working with DJ Melodic for over 12 years. He's an extremely talented DJ, producer and music connoisseur with a gentle soul and a passion and dedication for music like no other. Melodic and I started spinning together all over Houston around 1995. On Monday nights we had a residency at Cafe Brasil, a small coffee shop in the Montrose area. It was where we first experimented with playing Jazzy beats and downtempo simultaneously on 4 turntables accompanied by live musicians. Some of the most memorable and influential music sessions that I'll never forget came from that night. I've always admired his humble and kind-hearted spirit. He has and will always be an inspiration and positive influence in my life.”

In 2003, Chicken George and Starsign moved to Austin, where they continued the tradition of playing downtempo and house records on 4 turntables. "We improvised everything, just doing our thing, and both of us eventually found our own audiences. But we felt that if Paco ever moved down here, he'd school all of us and dominate the underground scene."

It was this respect and admiration for Melodic which sounded a call-to-action for many in the Austin DJ community.

"After hearing the devastating news, I pulled myself together,” Starsign recollects. “I reached out to all my friends and connections to organize a benefit for Paco. Of course I knew Chicken George was in, and eventually, we got our dj homies to play and our friends around town who own record stores and retail shops have all generously donated giveaways. It's a real grassroots effort and we're donating all of the money we collect to our friend in need."

It is clear that Melodic’s influence on Austin DJ culture is deep, and the fact that these DJs want to do something for him to illuminate their respect, is inspiring in itself.

"I know Paco loves Austin's vibe and independent spirit, he loves Waterloo Records and was a huge fan of 33 Degrees. The guy is genuine and humble to the core and I feel like organizing this benefit was the very least I could do to help out someone who mentored me and befriended me when I was just getting my start. Lots of people in Austin have been indirectly influenced by Paco's creative spirit and now I think it's time we show him some love."

100% of the night’s proceeds will be pledged toward Melodic’s continued care and recovery.