A Minute With… DJ Tony Moran

A Minute With… DJ Tony Moran

Tony Moran gives new definition to the concept of multi-hyphenate. The DJ/Producer/Remixer/Singer/Songwriter has dominated music charts and dance floors around the world. Ask any record spinner: a song remixed by Moran is practically guaranteed anthem status. Chances are, if you’ve stepped foot in a gay nightclub in the past 20 years, you’ve at least tapped your toes—if not danced your ass off—to at least one song worked on by Moran.

The list of singers Moran has worked with reads like a “Who’s Who” of pop culture divas: Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion, Cyndi Lauper, Gloria Estefan and Cher. Though he’s been at the forefront of gay club remixes and a fixture on the circuit scene for well over a decade, Moran’s career goes back to 1981.

While gearing up to spin the inaugural Stratosphere party during Gay Days Weekend at Universal Studios, Moran shared his reflections on Gay Days past, and well as his take on the so-called downward turn of the circuit scene.
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What is one of your favorite Gay Days Weekend memories?
My most significant immediate everlasting memories as a patron are that of Manny Lehman’s phenomenal performance at that first Stars party that Mark Baker created. By far it’s the best party I’ve ever experienced.

As a performer, my first MGM party and the magnitude of energy that Johnny Chisholm brought to life was again, a gay history note and I had Mickey Mouse to witness it with me!

Whether it’s the economy, promoters falling by the wayside, scrutiny into some events charitable aspects, circuit parties don’t seem to have the same impact or importance that they once had. What can promoters do to keep the party going?
Since I participate on some level in all of them, both in America and abroad, I beg to highly differ. Yes it is true that controversy has plagued many a significant party, but have you gone to White Party Miami last year or Jeffrey Sanker’s White Party this year? Or how about some of these Atlantis cruises? They’ve all had more people than ever. Don’t let a few localized problems spoil the whole bunch. That train of thinking sets the catalyst for pessimism that is contagious and hurtful to those trying to keep it going

What do you think it is about Gay Days Weekend to make it seemingly survive all the negative trends and continue to grow as a gay destination event?
Gay Days is a monster that created itself. Meaning, it has became bigger than what could ever have been expected. To keep that bar at the same level is a huge undertaking and maybe it’s time to invest the energy that people use to fight with one another and re-direct it to work with one another. That includes not only the producers and the artists, but the patrons. The wonderful thing about history is that history has way more to offer than to just repeat itself. Don’t lower your expectations of what you deserve, but try to encourage those involved to collaborate.

Has the economy and possible fewer events affected you?
I am in this for 25 years now. I love to work and work has always found me because my goal is to have the opportunity to create; the price tag attached is not always primary.

What are your thoughts on the influence of music in media today, particularly with shows like American Idol…Do you vote…and for whom if you do?
I vote for Kara to remain as a judge.

What up-and-coming artists do you think “have it” to make it to the next level? What are some artists that you’ve not yet worked with, but would like to?
I love Kimberly Locke. I recently worked with her and just love her. Lady Gaga is all that. I’m dying to work with Usher.

Many artists that you’ve remixed in the past have been somewhat dormant as of late—Gloria Estefan, Cher, Duran Duran. How do you take an iconic act and make them “fresh” again?

I would produce them from scratch rather than attempt to make them sound fresh via a remix.
 
How does being an openly gay man affect your work? (As opposed to, say, another DJ who might be a straight man, or a lesbian?)

Behind the booth or in the studio I am first and foremost an artist. I don’t feel that I am viewed by my contemporaries as a gay artist, but simply as an artist. But if I’m asked, yes, I am gay and proud.

Everyone likes to remember their “best” moments, but what’s been one of your most embarrassing moments spinning?
I love to interact with the audience and I love to dance. One time I was dancing so hard and did a twirl and fell right off the stage. Embarrassing, yes, but I got up, bruises and all, and was supported by the crowd to keep the party going.
 
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
That I am grateful and thankful for every gift given and that I wear every emotion for all to see. And that I am afraid of many things except the willingness to try.

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