"VIBE ZOO" Exclusive: Pretty Lights

Every week leading up to Electric Zoo 2012, VIBE will introduce you to a banger-producing-party inducing DJ that will make Randalls Island shake like a polaroid picture on speed come Labor Day Weekend. This week on the decks is Pretty Lights.

Colorado based producer Derek Vincent Smith, aka Pretty Lights is more than an EDM DJ. He's a rhythm risk-taker with a versatile ear for beats that match up in unique, and well-blended ways. With roots producing hip-hop back in high school, he’s effortlessly (or so it seems) managed to evolve his sound alongside an ever-changing music industry with myriad production methods. The banger tracks produced by Pretty Lights are methodical and cutting edge yet, each one still feels organic. It raises the chicken and the egg question—musically.

Did we mention he offers his music for free? Catch Pretty Lights live at Electric Zoo 2012 coming to Randalls Island once again this Labor Day Weekend.

VIBE: Describe your sonic style for an EDM novice in one sentence.
Pretty Lights: Bangin & Beautiful Future-Retro Electro Hip-Hop Analog Electronica

What does being on the lineup at Electric Zoo mean to you?
It means I get to rock out for the passionate music-loving people of NYC, which I love to love. Electric Zoo dude!!! I F**KING MADE IT!

List artists that you draw inspiration from.
DJ: DJ Shadow, Bonobo, Trentemoller
Singer: Syl Johnson, Nina Simone, Lightning Hopkins
Hip-Hop Artist: Atmosphere, Jay Z, Audio Two
Band: Poets Of Rhythm, Budos Band, Pink Floyd

If you could choose any artist in the world (living) to collaborate with on a track who would it be?
Jay Z and Slug

Who are you listening to on your iPod right now?
Eccentric Soul Compilations, Sergio Mendes, Miike Snow

Finish this sentence: "Electric Zoo is a festival that..."
I am anticipating with the excitement of a 14 year old seeing their first Skrillex concert. I just took my 14 year old brother, he was very excited.