WQSV Profile:
Darell Hyden
How did you come to be involved with WQSV? And how long have you been involved?
Two very influential and kind people made this happen.
When did you start DJing? Are there any DJs who influenced you? Or something/someone else who influenced you?
I started DJing at WRIR in Richmond, co-hosting The Crypt Shift with Nancy Fisler from the punk band Nancy and the Knockers in 2006. We played Garage Rock mainly, and I mostly just grunted every now and then whenever she asked me a question. I was also heavily influenced by the folks from WTJU, and Fontaine from WDCE and WRIR. Oh, and the Bopst Show at the turn of the century was cool too. These days I really enjoy Astral Traveling with Ben and Tony! Not only do they play the music, but they discuss it in detail. You can tell they really care, and have a great passion about the tunes that they play.
Talk about your connection to music/the role music plays in your life.
I am not only a DJ at this fine establishment, but I am a musician. I have also been in quite a few bands off and on for over thirty years. I played shows at the old Visulite. Played everywhere from CBGB’s and Music Festivals, to Church Revivals opening up for a puppet show. I am also a songwriter, or SONGWRONGER, depending on who you ask. I have hundreds of recordings collecting dust, and hope to get back into playing shows one day.
Music is crucial. Music colors our lives.
Describe your show.
My show is like a flaming aluminum garbage can full of empty beer bottles falling down a flight of stairs.
Who are some of your favorite musicians and why?
My favorite musicians are my friends and other people I’ve played with over the years. I have learned almost everything I know about understanding and playing music from watching my peers, and I thank them.
My taste in music is all over the Map really… I love everyone from Genesis P. Orridge to Bubble Gum, and sometimes it’s beneficial to get obsessed with as many as you can handle.
What is your first memory involving music?
I remember hearing songs on the car radio when I was incredibly young. Mostly AM Radio like Bread, Maureen McGovern, and Gilbert O’Sullivan. It wasn’t fun. Musical notes, harmonies, song structures, and melodies can still make me cry, but back then it was a little more traumatic…
What was the first concert you attended?
Hmm. Details hazy. Either The Easter Brothers (A gospel bluegrass band that my uncle played with), The Statler Brothers at Gypsy Hill Park, or Foghat at Expoland.
How do you go about building your show?
I start with a song. The fun and the bad ideas come later.
Do you have any particular criteria when selecting music for your show?
Music selection sometimes is determined by my mood or sheer whim.