Where do you continue to seek musical inspiration?

My inspiration comes from many places all over the world, especially in New York. It can be a performance from an artist, my record collection, a night at Roots (my residency with Kevin Hedge of Blaze), even hanging out with family and friends. My mind is always moving with many musical ideas and collaborations that come to mind.

Everyone knows about your countless successes. Your discography is staggering. Behind all that, were there any bombs? In other words, songs you thought would blow up and didn't?

Of course there were flops. You learn from your mistakes. I've done songs that I hear today and say, "Why did I do that?" or "Why did we do that?" But I'm proud 98% of our work.

Do you and India still work together?

India and I have not worked since Nuyorican Soul's "Runaway" in 1997. About nine years.

Your thoughts on the whole Chicago vs. New York debate?

I didn't know there was a debate between New York and Chicago. I understand that was many years ago. New York had its style of House music and Chicago as well. But the term "House music" did come from Chicago. Uptempo dance music with drum machines was done in both places. When there was Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Mr. Fingers, JM Silk, Farley Jackmaster Funk and more in Chicago, [in New York] there was Larry Levan, Boyd Jarvis, Paul Simpson, Winston Jones, Blaze, Pal Joey and others. So there was House music being made simultaneously in the two cities. But the term "House music" was coined in Chicago.

I always ask this of all my interviewees... Where do you see House going 10 years from now? Will it ever get the commercial notoriety of Hip-Hop?

House music is like jazz music. Going live is it. When I brought Elements Of Life on the road, it really took our music in front of our fans eyes and came to life. We've crossed into other worlds of music and the audiences are growing. It also took our fans from the clubs to festival, live venue, atmospheres. It's about spreading our music to open-minded people who love feel good music. It's also a way of life for many of us. We've been with House music since the birth of House music. It will only leave if we stop making it. Dedicated is what we are. The people do this to us - all over the world there are many who seek this music and come to get enlightened through the DJ.

Can you name us 5 songs that you are listening to right now?

"Walking On Thin Ice" by Anane, "Put Your Drink Down" by Mr. V, "Cabo Parano" by Martin Solveig, "Born Again" by Pasta Boys, and "Put Your Back Into It" by Peven Everett.

Any advice to up and coming DJs and producers?

My advice to young producers and DJs is to learn an instrument, music, and the business. If you are ambitious, believe in yourself and stay true to what you love, you will have a good chance in some success. Study your craft and learn from experienced ones. If they invite you to a studio or you can get tips from a successful DJ, do so. I was a bedroom DJ, just like many of you with a dream...

Thank you so much for your time, we really appreciate it! Anything you'd like to plug for us to watch out for?

Watch out for full length CDs on Vega Records coming later this year and in '07, including Selections by Anane, Welcome Home by Mr. V and Elements Of Life II by Louie Vega.