Dj Joe Darque Farewell Address To Detroit Underground Scene

[Joe Darque]

As I sit here writing this it seems odd that it feels like only yesterday that I was hired at the City Club for a DJ position. I remember the first time I set foot in there as more than just a patron. I remember how nervous I was, and I remember how humbling it was. For the first time I felt like all the working I had done, up until that point, had finally paid off. Now it is time to say goodbye. Time to say farewell.

I can’t believe that over 8 years have passed since that day. It was January 1999, and I had turned in a demo tape, yeah remember those, reluctantly. After moving back home from my 4-year stay on the east coast I really had little interest in spinning any more. I started doing it for fun at parties and small occasions back when I was 15. Shortly after I moved out to the coast I was presented with an opportunity to DJ at a fairly well known club. I took the job on a probationary basis and was soon offered a full time slot. Who would have figured? From that position to special events or guest spots I began building up my resume. However, continuing it was the last thing on my mind after I moved home to Detroit. I couldn’t even begin to tell you why I applied. Maybe it was just to see if I could do it?

The City Club was always a special place for me. Ever since I first set foot in there, yeah thru the lobby, I was awestruck. Maybe it was the secrecy that went into it so many years ago, maybe the size, maybe its underground feeling, or maybe just because it was so dark? I know the club has undergone a lot of changes over the many years and it holds different experiences for everyone. I know the club isn’t what it used to be but it still holds its meaning inside. Just imagine how I felt when this entity that I held in such high regard now retained my services as a DJ. For many years, those who had gone before me at such an influential establishment influenced me. Now it was my turn, my turn to do what had been done for me, to try to influence so many patrons with the gift of new music.

I’m writing this because I wanted to say goodbye to those of you who have at one time or still continue to show your support of me as a DJ. I can’t begin to tell you how important it is and has been to me to be your City Club resident for so many years. Every time someone says “good job”, “great set”, “loved that mix”, “who was that you just played”, “can you write that band/song down for me”, or as of recently “we’ll miss you” has touched me. One thing I always wanted to do as a DJ was introduce new music to new people and even if I reached just one person that was all that mattered.

However, everything comes to an end. For those of you who don’t know I am in the military and duty calls. I will be leaving for destinations unknown at the end of the month. It has been an honor to keep you dancing for so many years, meet so many interesting people, and make a lot of new friends. Words can’t describe. Oddly enough I have always felt like part of a family at the City Club and I know I will always be welcome in my families home.

In my absence, Darque Productions will remain. Any rumors you hear otherwise are false. Once again something I would have never imagined when I started the company so many years ago. Continuing to bring you the best in underground music events is what we are all about. I can’t say how much it means to me that my partner and the Darque crew are willing to keep the business going. They are great bunch of guys who truly do it “for the love of the game”. Please continue to support us and we will continue to bring the music you love to the Motor-city. Not to mention, I’m not dying, just going away for a while. I will still be involved and return home to visit when I can.

Looking to the future, my love of music and being a DJ will prevent me from stepping down completely. I don’t foresee myself ever gaining a residency again but I will continue to DJ here and there as opportunities present themselves. I also will be releasing a CD soon so be on the lookout for that as well.

For the City Club and I, the party’s over. It was a good one!

Come out a party with me a few more times before I depart!

· Saturday May 12th I’m hosting a CD listening party @ City Club

· Wednesday May 16th is my “Official” send-off party @ LUNA

· Saturday May 19th is my last night @ City Club

DJ Joe Darque

8 ½ year Saturday Night Resident

Leland City Club, Detroit

[Onyx]

Wow.

Glad to hear your company will still be bringing good things to us.

Stay safe over there.

[Joe Darque]

Wow.

Glad to hear your company will still be bringing good things to us.

Stay safe over there.

Thank you I will try.

~J