Episode 101 - DJ Freddy Fresh
WFNU Frogtown Community Radio Edit
Podcast Episode
Freddy Fresh’s Funeral Music Playlist
Personal Connections to Funeral Music
One of the most striking aspects of selecting funeral music is the personal connection individuals have to these songs. For DJ Freddy Fresh, the songs he has chosen are deeply meaningful—not just for a funeral setting, but also as tracks that resonate with his life experiences. As he explains, "These are songs that I do listen to. They're not songs that I only would listen to at my funeral; they're songs that I really like." This sentiment highlights the dual purpose of music in both life and legacy: to celebrate, to mourn, and to encapsulate moments.
Authenticity in Artistic Expression
DJ Freddy Fresh shared an intimate perspective on his creative process, particularly regarding one of his own compositions, "I Cry to Pieces." Created in his studio, this track draws upon riffs and melodies he first explored as a child. Recalling hours spent at a piano in his stepmother's and father's home, Freddy described how these early experiences continue to influence his music today. "When I play music in my studio, a lot of those riffs that I practiced with when I was a kid are what I'm playing again," he shared. For Freddy, this track stands out as a rare piece of work with which he is truly satisfied—a significant achievement given the self-critical nature of many artists.
The Balance Between Art and Marketability
As Freddy pointed out, creating music often involves navigating the tension between personal authenticity and external expectations. While he strives to stay true to his feelings in the moment, he acknowledges the challenge of balancing artistic expression with market considerations. "Music is more of an artistic expression," he explained. "It's about being authentic to what you're feeling in the moment, as opposed to what will someone think? Is this going to be marketable?" This philosophy underscores the deeply personal nature of his work, even as he grapples with the unpredictable reception of his songs.
Revisiting Childhood Through Music
Michael Venske, the host, drew an insightful parallel between Freddy's childhood piano riffs and the tendency of individuals nearing the end of their lives to revert to a childlike state. This observation resonated with Freddy, further emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and creativity. It also illustrates how music can serve as a bridge between past and present, connecting different stages of a person's life.
A Lifelong Love for Boards of Canada
Freddy also shared a memorable anecdote about his introduction to Boards of Canada, a Scottish electronic music duo. The moment took place during a pivotal time in his career, on the way to perform at the legendary Glastonbury Festival. Listening to Boards of Canada's album "Music Has the Right to Children" while passing Stonehenge was a transformative experience for him. "It was almost a spiritual experience," Freddy recalled, describing the convergence of the music, the iconic setting, and the anticipation of performing at one of his biggest gigs. This connection underscores the profound emotional and situational ties that music can create.
Music as a Keeper of Memories
Freddy's story about his connection to Boards of Canada led to a broader reflection on how music often evokes specific memories and emotions. Whether it’s a song tied to a first date or a family request at a wedding, music holds the power to preserve moments and feelings in ways that few other art forms can. For Freddy, his role as a DJ allows him to witness and contribute to these meaningful connections, further enriching his appreciation for music's enduring impact.
The Importance of Open Dialogue
As the conversation came to a close, Freddy emphasized the vital role of open dialogue in fostering understanding and growth. "If we get to a point in our lives where we're not allowed to have this conversation I'm having right now with you, then we know there was a sinister problem behind this all," he remarked. This statement reflects his commitment to maintaining spaces where diverse perspectives can be shared freely.
Michael Venske echoed this sentiment, appreciating the refreshing nature of their discussion. "It's refreshing to have a conversation like this that doesn't just end in an argument or unfriending someone," he noted. Freddy agreed, underscoring the value of offering new perspectives and remaining open to ideas that might challenge our own.
Closing Notes and Continuing the Journey
The show concluded with gratitude from both the host and guest. Freddy expressed his appreciation for being part of such a thought-provoking conversation, and Michael encouraged listeners to explore more about Freddy's work online. For those interested in the unique premise of the show, "Your Funeral Music," Michael invited them to share their own funeral playlists and join the ongoing dialogue about life, music, and legacy.
As the final notes of the day's show played, listeners were reminded of the power of music to connect us—to our past, to each other, and to the enduring question of how we wish to be remembered.
