Much Respect | DJ Russ Rich
Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 12:17AM 
Hey there disco boys and girls-
This month's Much Respect posting features one of my favorite San Francisco DJ's, and someone who has become a very close friend over the past two years - DJ Russ Rich. Russ and I met while DJing together, and we quickly bonded over a shared love of sexy, vocal dance music. Russ has had an incredible influence on me, and we have spun together many times and even collaborated on a recent podcast together - one of my favorites, if I do say so myself.
If you've ever heard Russ spin, you've probably left the dance floor with a smile on your face. That's because the music he loves to play is big, happy, vocal house, with a touch of gospel, progressive, tribal and tech thrown in to keep things moving. Russ has been inspired by artists like Prince, Everything but the Girl, Madonna, and Peyton, as well as producers/DJ's the Freemasons, Moto Blanco, Victor Calderone, and Tony Moran.
Originally hailing from Minneapolis, Russ moved to San Francisco in 1997, and became immersed in San Francisco's dance music scene. Institutions like Club Universe, Mass @ 1015 Folsom and the End Up showcased some of his favorite DJs, like David Harness, Neal Lewis, and Phil B. A few years later, with clubs like Industry and Matinee emerging, Luke Johnstone and Jamie J. Sanchez became two inspirations, and Russ began venturing into the scene as a DJ.
Over the past few years, Russ has become quite an influence in the SF scene. He's recently headlined parties such as PLAY T-Dance at Lazy Bear, I Just Wanna F*ckin' Dance, Rub, Epic, and has been regularly seen spinning with the likes of The Freemasons, Hector Fonseca, Dave Aude, and other dance legends. He'll soon be spinning the new party Sauna with DJ Lee Decker on February 4th.
Russ has become an incredible mentor, a partner-in-crime, and an amazing friend over the past few years. He continually inspires and challenges me to become a better musician. I am truly honored to show Russ some well-deserved respect this month. You can find out more about DJ Russ Rich on his website and Facebook page. Much Respect, my friend!
DJ Craig Gaibler