Born and raised in Jersey, Steve Powers knew at a young age that he wanted to pursue the entertainment and music culture that the Big Apple had to offer. In college, Steve's aspirations became a reality, as he quickly became the go-to emcee for spring break Acapulco. Today, Steve is one of the most sought after DJ's in the country, performing at the hottest nightclubs in NYC and all over the nation. His music defies the boundaries of any genre or style, which is perhaps why superstars such as Rihanna, Derek Jeter and Leonardo DiCaprio have enjoyed his performances. We were lucky enough to sit down with the man whose incredible energy is able to get anyone on the dance floor. 

Steve, you are originally from New Jersey! What part are you from?

I grew up in Wayne, which is in North Jersey about fifteen minutes outside of the city.

Are you friends with DJ Pauly D?

It's funny you ask that because about a month ago, the cast was out one night at one of my gigs at GreenHouse. He came in the booth for a few pictures, and we talked for a few. He was a nice guy.

How old were you when you first started to spin in New York? Where was it?

I got my start two and a half years ago at G-Spa on Thursdays and Libation on Saturdays. It was cool because they were two completely different venues, and they gave me a chance to explore my sound.

How do you feel your vibe has progressed from the beginning of your career until now?

I feel that the vibe has always remained the same. I want people to come out and party all night long, and that hasn't changed - no matter where I am taking a room.

How would you best describe your sound?

High energy. I want people to be angry when the lights come on because they don't want to leave. Playing music and making people dance is something that I enjoy doing, and when I can get people to sing songs at the top of their lungs and jump up on the tables it's the best feeling. 

What kind of NY scene do you feel you best represent?

I represent what New York should be. The trendsetters that know what's cool set the tone for the rest of the country.  

How do you feel fashion and music play a part in each others' world?

They go hand in hand. Wherever there is fashion, music is there. Whether it's on the runway, or in the background of a photo shoot, the two are together. Cutting edge music sometimes defines a brand, and can take them to the next level.  

Who are some of your favorite designers?

John Varvatos always works for me. No matter what he comes out with it always fits my image, and it's like a tailored fit to me. D&G is my go-to for more formal, dressed up affairs.

What are some of your favorite NYC venues to spin at?

Kiss & Fly is such a great room for so many reasons as a DJ. They did it right with the lasers and the new lights behind the booth. GreenHouse is another place I love for the pure energy in the room. When you get that room rocking, it is one of those spaces that really can explode. For me, the bigger the better.  

Where else have you traveled to for DJing?

It really is one of the perks of this job. I've gotten to travel all over the country, whether it be Miami, Scottsdale, Dallas, or Park City. Also, outside the country to Acapulco, Cabo, and Madrid, just to name a few. I feel everyone who is a DJ loves this aspect of their job. It's great to be abroad and be playing songs that aren't even the native language of the country you're in, and have people singing along and enjoying the moment.

How was the Joonbug event in Miami?

It was awesome. Joonbug did a great job putting it all together. I can't think of a better way to ring in the New Year than on the rooftop of the Gansevoort Hotel in Miami on a beautiful night. 

Who are some musicians/DJs that you have collaborated with in the past?

That's another thing that I enjoy a lot - the ability to create music, and perform on so many different platforms with so many different people. I focus a lot of my producing and remixing with a NYC based DJ/Producer Brian Morse. I've gotten the opportunity to perform with Danity Kane, Naughty by Nature, Slick Rick, and DJ Red Alert.  

What is your personal trick as a DJ to keep the energy high while it's your set?

For me, it's to stay connected with the crowd. When you get the crowd feeling your music, and into your set, they really are under your spell. The true skill of a DJ is to know when to drop the right songs.  

What has been your favorite live set?

Last year, for Winter Music Conference down in Miami, I had an event that I was only supposed to go on for an hour and ended up staying on until the sun came up. It was extra special for me because a lot of the tracks that I was playing were some of my own that I have been working on with Brian, and seeing people lose their minds over them was awesome. We really take pride in our tracks and focus a lot of our time on them. That made it so great because it was a coming out party for our music, and it really put us on the map.

Do you have a fashion icon, if so who is it, why?

I've always liked anyone that takes chances, and pulls off multiple looks. Someone like Ashton Kutcher, or even Justin Timberlake or Usher, who always seem ahead of the curve. They set trends without even trying.  

How do you practice?

Either in the studio, or by rolling into clubs during off hours. Staying fresh is just as important as staying on top of the music.  

Do you have a planned set before you go on or do you wing it as you go?

DJ's that pre-plan their sets are not DJ's, they are called iPods. So I guess the answer to your question is no, I do not pre-plan my set.

What is this logo you use? Who came up with him?

It's funny you ask that, because I am currently getting a new one. That was something we came up with a while back that was kinda cool - having a cartoon image of myself as a logo.

Our Events Director wants to learn how to spin. Do you think you could teach her?

Of course. It's a skill that can be taught, but the knowledge of music and reading a crowd is something that takes time and practice.