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More by Leah Batstone

John Newcombe killed

Halifax musician shot outside Winston's Pub.
- by Leah Batstone
- Jun 7, 2012
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DJ IV’s so vein

He probably thinks this article is about him. He’d be right.

by Leah Batstone

click to enlarge

Halifax's party-rocker, DJ IV, feels best when tucked away in his quiet Oxford Street studio. His modest recording booth, huge computer screen and equipment crowd the modernized attic. This is his comfort zone, his workshop, his easel, and every day spent here over his 13-year career has been preparation for one big night---Saturday at the Red Bull Thre3style Nationals.

This is IV's second Red Bull battle this year. In April, he joined five Maritime DJs to compete in the Thre3style regional final. He was sick with pneumonia after two months of touring with Classified, yet IV still managed to win. "I really thought my man Plaeboi should've won, he's my best DJ buddy," says IV.

Nevertheless, IV is moving to the next round. This weekend he'll be representing Atlantic Canada when he battles Canada's best. All five DJs get 15 minutes to rock the stage and must use three genres. Judges (including Skratch Bastid and DJ Jazzy Jeff) will be looking for originality, creativity and overall performance.

"I'm trying to draw every one of my people to come support me. Win, lose or draw, this is my moment."

It's been a long slog for IV, who started DJing after watching Jorun, the grandfather of Halifax hip-hop, perform with a dropped jaw. He has become the official DJ for Universal Soul and Classified, toured the world and created a recording space for young hip-hop artists.

When asked about a hometown advantage, IV said being born and raised in Halifax has its perks. "I'm gunning for all the competitors, but I'm going to do it my way, the way I know Halifax enjoys it." And if IV wins, he'll be celebrating Scotian-style. "I'll celebrate with the people who support me, and just keep things moving." --

Red Bull Thre3style Nationals w/ DJ IV, DJ Charly Hustle, DJ Friktion, DJ Shub, DJ Henward, Saturday, May 26 at The Palace, 1721 Brunswick Street, 9pm, Tickets at

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