DJ Q Bert: A Pioneer in the World of Turntablism
Who is DJ Q Bert?
Richard Quitevis, better known as DJ Q Bert or Q Bert, is an accomplished American turntablist and composer. Born on October 7, 1969, he has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the most creative DJs in the world. His contributions to the art of turntablism are remarkable, with numerous accolades under his belt. In 1991, he clinched the DMC USA Champion title in the solo category, followed by back-to-back victories in the DMC World Championship in 1992 and 1993.
The Rise of a Pioneer
DJ Q Bert hails from the vibrant city of San Francisco, where he pioneered several intricate scratching techniques. Notably, he is credited with inventing the iconic crab scratch, which showcases his emphasis on rapid, percussion-driven movements and the innovative use of spoken word samples. Q Bert’s influence extends beyond his music releases. He founded an online DJ school, produced instructional films, and released a plethora of DJ battle tool records. He was a significant force in the Bay Area DJ collective known as the Invisibl Skratch Piklz, alongside Mix Master Mike, DJ Disk, D-Styles, and Yogafrog.
The Invisibl Skratch Piklz aimed to redefine the role of DJs in rap music. They sought to shift the focus from empty showmanship to the essential elements of technique and musicianship. The group’s members took on various roles, such as solos, basslines, and drums, resembling a band more than a traditional DJ crew. Q Bert, in particular, embarked on a mission to debunk misconceptions about the DJ craft by imparting knowledge and spreading the turntable gospel.
An Innovative Career
Q Bert’s expertise as a DJ was recognized as early as 1985. He started DJing alongside Mix Master Mike and DJ Apollo in 1990. Their talents caught the attention of the renowned Rock Steady Crew during a performance in New York City, leading to an invitation to join the crew. Q Bert and his crewmates, known as the Rock Steady DJs, proceeded to win the World Championship at the Disco Mixing Club (DMC) for three consecutive years, solidifying their position as the best in the business.
Taking their musical endeavors to the next level, Q Bert and the Rock Steady DJs released battle tools and breakbeat songs through their Dirt Style Records label in 1992. Additionally, Q Bert demonstrated his versatility by releasing fighting tool albums under the alias Darth Fader, collaborating with DJ Disk under the name Scarecrow Willy. His mixtape “Demolition Pumpkin Squeeze Musik” received widespread acclaim and further boosted his reputation in the turntablism community.
A Multifaceted Artist
Q Bert continued to innovate throughout his career. In collaboration with Vestax, he created the QFO, an all-in-one scratching tool that combined a mixer’s crossfader with a turntable. He also released the Ortofon Qbert turntable cartridge in 2006, catering to DJs seeking the perfect sound.
Beyond his contributions to the DJ scene, Q Bert launched the Qbert Skratch University through the ArtistWorks website in 2009. This online learning platform and community allowed aspiring DJs to learn from his extensive expertise. His commitment to the craft earned him a DMC Legend jacket during the DMC World DJ Championships event in 2016.
Awards and Recognition
- America’s Best DJ 2010
- DMC USA Champion 1991 (solo)
- DMC World Champion 1992 – Rock Steady DJs (Q Bert, Mix Master Mike & Apollo)
- DMC World Champion 1993 – Dreamteam (Q Bert & Mix Master Mike)
- DMC DJ Hall of Fame (along with Mix Master Mike)
- Featured in “Hang the DJ” by Marco & Mauro La Villa – Cannes Film Festival, France
- Appears in the documentary film “Modulations” – Sundance Festival, Utah
- Appears in the documentary “Scratch” – Sundance Festival, Utah
- Stars in his animated/live-action movie “Wave Twisters”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the real name of DJ Q Bert?
DJ Q Bert’s real name is Richard Quitevis.
Where is DJ Q Bert from?
DJ Q Bert hails from San Francisco, California.
How long has DJ Q Bert been DJing?
DJ Q Bert has been DJing since the early 1990s.
What are some of DJ Q Bert’s most popular songs?
Some of DJ Q Bert’s most popular songs include “Wave Twisters,” “Super Seal Scratch Sentences,” and “Skratch Makology.”
What is DJ Q Bert’s website?
DJ Q Bert’s website is http://www.djqbert.com/.
What is DJ Q Bert’s net worth?
DJ Q Bert’s net worth is estimated to be $8 million.
Where does DJ Q Bert live?
DJ Q Bert resides in San Francisco, California.
What is DJ Q Bert’s nationality?
DJ Q Bert is an American.
What turntables does DJ Q Bert use?
DJ Q Bert uses the Vestax QFO and the Rane TTM 57SL turntables.
What language does Q Bert speak?
DJ Q Bert is the owner of Skratch Makademiks.
Is Fix-It Felix a real game?
No, Fix-It Felix is not a real game. It is a character in the Disney film “Wreck-It Ralph.”
How did DJ Q Bert start his career?
DJ Q Bert kickstarted his career by winning a local DJ battle in San Francisco.
What is a DJ?
A DJ is a person who plays recorded music for an audience, typically using turntables, mixers, and headphones to control their sound.
What does a DJ do?
A DJ plays music for an audience, using turntables, mixers, and headphones to control their sound. DJs may also create remixes of songs or produce original tracks.
What is scratching?
Scratching is a technique used by DJs to create unique sound effects by moving a vinyl record back and forth on a turntable.
How do I become a DJ?
Becoming a DJ requires a combination of talent, practice, and networking. Some tips for becoming a successful DJ include studying the craft, honing your skills, and building industry connections.
How much do DJs earn?
DJs’ earnings vary depending on the size and location of the event. Rates can range from $50 per hour for small gigs to $500 or more per hour for larger festivals.
How many hours do DJs work?
DJs typically work for 4-8 hours at a time, although the duration can vary depending on the event. Small club performances may last 2-4 hours, while large festival sets can span 8 hours or more.
What is the difference between a DJ and a producer?
A DJ plays recorded music for an audience, while a producer creates music, either by writing and recording original tracks or by remixing existing songs. Some DJs also produce music, but it is not a requirement of the job.
What is the difference between a DJ and a turntablist?
A turntablist is a type of DJ who uses turntables to create music, often through scratching vinyl records. While all turntablists are DJs, not all DJs are turntablists.
What is the difference between a DJ and an MC?
An MC, or emcee, is a type of rapper who introduces and plays music for an audience. While all DJs play music for an audience, not all DJs are MCs, and not all MCs are DJs.
In Conclusion
If you’re intrigued by DJ Q Bert’s incredible career and life or wish to book him for an event, visit his website at DJ Oneman. We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of one of the industry’s most innovative and respected DJs.