Mink, a talented DJ and producer from Brooklyn, has become well-known in both the local and international nightlife scenes for his exceptional and refined sets.
Photo credit: Mink – Official
Expanding on his success, Mink recently launched his own record label called Love On Cropsey. The label aims to capture the essence of past and present musical eras. The name of the label holds sentimental value as it pays tribute to the street where Mink’s grandparents once lived.
Their debut EP, ‘NY/LDN,’ is a collaboration with the emerging artist Azaad from London.
In a recent interview with EG, Mink shared insights about his musical journey, his vision for the label, and his unwavering passion for delivering high-quality music experiences.
EG: Hi, Mink! Welcome to EG. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us. How have you been? Where are you right now?
Mink: Hello EG! I’ve been doing well and staying focused. I’m currently in Brooklyn.
EG: First of all, congratulations on the release of your new EP, ‘NY/LDN’! You must be very excited to finally share this one. What has the initial reception been like? Do you remember the first time you played these tracks live?
Mink: The support has been amazing! It’s been surreal to see videos of some of the most respected DJs in the game playing the EP. Some of those videos were recorded at Amnesia Ibiza, Hi Ibiza, Sunwaves Romania, and Space Miami. The first time I played ‘Be My Love’ by Azaad was at DC10 Ibiza for Circoloco. One word, goosebumps. When I first got to play in New York (Teksupport) after the Ibiza season, I instantly felt the dance floors’ uplifting energy to all the EP tracks.
EG: So, what can your fans expect to find on ‘NY/LDN’? Is there an emotional trigger or backstory driving these tracks?
Mink: I wanted to honor my grandparents who lived on Cropsey Avenue in Brooklyn. They lived a few blocks from Coney Island boardwalk, which I can honestly say was the first place I heard house music. I remember the late 90s and early 2000s on that boardwalk, hearing tracks from MAW, Danny Tenaglia, David Morales, and other legendary NY pioneers! This label will forever be a testament to my experiences and love for quality music.
EG: And ‘NY/LDN’ is the first release of your newly launched Love On Cropsey imprint. Congratulations, again! What was it that compelled you to have your own label? Why did you decide to begin your journey with this EP?
Mink: I always felt like I didn’t fit in with too many labels and wanted to break away from the stigma of needing to be on a big label to see positive results. Mainly though, it was an outlet to be myself and share music that’s important to me, on my own terms! This EP was a no-brainer. Linking up with Azaad was easy for me because we share a lot of the same inspirations and love for the scene. I approached him on Instagram about his track, and he sent it after months of playing it all over Ibiza last season. I asked him to sign it to a new label I’m starting, and the rest is history!
“Linking up with Azaad was easy for me because we share a lot of the same inspirations and love for the scene”
EG: So, what kind of music can we expect from Love On Cropsey in the future? What’s the plan here?
Mink: From dancefloor bangers to forward-thinking deep cuts. I’m modeling this label after some of my favorite 90’s artists. Different tracks and vibes that all fit together. This label is for the music enthusiasts, the purists, and the dancers.
EG: Just how much research did you do prior to the launch? In your opinion, what are some of the standout or key areas to focus on with a new imprint?
Mink: I did research day and night for months! It’s hard work to start a label and do it smoothly. I asked many of my peers for advice and compared. Prioritizing all your tasks and tackling them one by one. Give yourself time because unexpected errors will arise along the way.
EG: Stepping outside of the studio for a moment… How do you feel about the impact of social media on an artist’s chances of “making it”? Does it feel like we’re selling more than just music now?
Mink: I think social media is a valuable tool, but if I’m being honest, this scene was built on how a DJ can make you feel with their collection and presence – while nowadays, social media can make a DJ popular through silly videos. In my opinion, the most professional DJs in 2023-2024 would do the following: Always strive to discover timeless music, whether it’s popular or not (from any era), work on producing sounds that are different from what’s currently trending, and maintain a positive presence on social media. It shouldn’t be just the last one.
EG: The incorporation of AI in electronic music seems to be on the rise, whether it is in the music, the album covers, and beyond. Do you have a particular stance on this?
Mink: AI could also be a great tool but also scary. Making music for you and having the world asking “do we need artists anymore?” Well, I’ll say this… AI isn’t you, so you’re already at an advantage. Your soul can’t be duplicated.
“Always strive to discover timeless music, whether it’s popular or not (from any era), work on producing sounds that are different from what’s currently trending, and maintain a positive presence on social media”
EG: Finally, can you provide some insights into what’s next for Mink and Love On Cropsey? What’s in store for 2024? Where can your fans catch you next?
Mink: A lot of surprises are coming on this label. We have some timeless cuts from amazing up-and-comers and some legendary producers & vocalists. I’m really looking forward to LOC002 as well; it will show the range of this imprint. Expect seductive, deep, sexy blends of house, more house & techno. As for me, I will be spending many hours in my studio and continuing my residencies in New York & beyond this fall. It’s going to be a busy 2024!
EG: Thank you so much for your time, Mink! We wish you all the best for the future. Take care!
Mink: Thank you, EG. I appreciate the love and support on this project. Love, Minky
Mink’s ‘NY/LDN,’ is out now via Love On Cropsey. Stream and download here.
Follow Mink: Spotify | Facebook | Instagram I Soundcloud
