KERB’s Social Media Manager, Ellen, caught up with Sam Middleton for a Q and A ahead of joining KERB as a journalist.
Sam is an established DJ with a history of working within the industry. Starting his career studying media and journalism at West Cheshire College, Sam then found his love for DJing and went on to hold residencies at several of Liverpool’s most prolific venues such as Highball Club and Einsteins as well as playing various bars such as Heebee Jeebies, Baa Bar and Mccooleys.
Sam signed with Koda Recordings in 2023 and has released several tracks with them since.
To give you an insight into what Sam will be bringing to the team, read ahead:
What was it that made you want to join KERB Productions?
When Ryan approached me and asked if I’d like to join the team, I couldn’t say no! Myself and Ryan’s friendship goes back a long time, and Ry’s passion and energy for music matches mine. There are not enough new and local platforms for getting music heard so I loved the idea behind it.
When did you first get into the music industry?
So, after playing house parties from approximately 17 years old, I got my first sets playing at Maddison’s Pub in Ellesmere Port. That then progressed onto club gigs at NGHTWRK events in Chester and eventually bars and clubs around Liverpool. I got into producing music around 19 years old as it felt like a natural progression to just playing music.
What are your favourite gigs that you’ve played?
I once played at the O2 Ritz in Manchester to just over 3000 people, I was so nervous walking out to that crowd ! Another standout gig for me was the first time I played in Heebie Jeebies, in Liverpool. I’d been there before as a punter but being on the other side watching the whole crowd’s energy was such a brilliant experience!
Do you have any plans to collaborate with other artists within your music?
So next year I’ve got plans to release more music with my friend Michael Conroy, who runs Koda recordings. This is also where my other releases have been signed to. I’m also hoping that 2026 is the year that I work with vocalists – including yourself! *Sam gestures towards Ellen*. I’m also looking at expanding my skills, and writing lyrics for the tracks too, which will be an entirely new experience to me, so, I’m looking forward to pushing myself!
Who are your biggest influences?
Pete Tong the legendary Radio 1 DJ – his track selection and longevity in the industry is second to none! Producer-wise, I love Duke Dumont. The way he brought a new style of dance music, with elements of classic house, to a new generation was just sensational. I’ve been playing tunes of his from my house party days and still play them in my sets now!
What are your favourite genres, other than the ones that we’d expect?
I’m a sucker for Hip Hop; I love the style, the flows, and the attitude that the veterans such as Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg had, and the way they’d take old soul music samples and turn them into something new. Another one you probably wouldn’t expect is metal. I love bands like Slipknot and Iron Maiden, although I don’t get to play them much in my sets!
What will you be able to bring to KERB Productions that sets you apart from the other members?
I think my knowledge in the dance music and club side of things brings an edge, as KERB has been focussed solely on bands and solo artists so far. My joining will definitely help expand KERB’s reach to both artists and readers alike.
What type of content are you excited about creating with us?
I’m really looking forward to interviewing artists face to face as I love sharing my passion, and the emotions that music can convey with people, and really understanding how they feel about performing/writing music. To be honest I’m just so grateful to lend a hand in anything I can for the team, I live and breathe music, and can’t wait to show that!
What do you have coming up, personally, within your music career?
At the moment, continuing with my Friday night residency at Einstein’s Concert Square and getting more original music released next year, and possibly some cheeky edits/remixes of some well-known classic tunes!
Keep an eye out for Sam’s upcoming work both behind a DJ booth and behind the pen!
