In October 2019, I had the opportunity to sit down with DJ Gringo for a conversation that, at the time, was simply about music, DJing, and the culture surrounding it. I had been attending his parties for a while—first discovering him at Bar 13 in New York City during a Sunday event promoted by Lady Tia, and later at his Tune In Tuesdays party at Kinfolk. From the moment I first heard him play, I knew he had something special. His ability to blend roots reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats while keeping the crowd fully engaged stood out immediately. Over time, I irregularly attended his events, not just for the music but for the overall vibe and the community that formed around them.
Here's a video I shot back in July 2018, while attending DJ Gringo's 'Tune In Tuesdays' party.
That community was a big part of the experience. Through nights at Kinfolk and Bar 13, I met people who started as “party friends” and became lasting connections—people I still see and hang out with today. In our interview, he spoke about his journey—from playing vinyl sets for hours at major events like Rebel Salute in Jamaica to adapting to the modern DJ landscape shaped by technology and social media. He emphasized the importance of reading the crowd, staying authentic, and understanding that real skill goes beyond just having access to music—it’s about knowing how to move people.
Now, that conversation holds a deeper meaning. DJ Gringo passed away in February 2026, and his loss is felt by many who experienced his music and presence firsthand. Looking back, I’m grateful that he took the time to sit down with me, especially when others wouldn’t. This interview serves not only as a snapshot of his mindset and passion in 2019, but also as a tribute to the impact he had on the dance floor and within the community. DJ Gringo was more than just a DJ—he brought people together, and he will be missed.
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