Profile: Tony Humphries

DJ/Producer Tony Humphries

Tony Humphries, a name synonymous with the golden era of dance music, is not just a DJ; he’s a living legend, an icon whose influence has reverberated through the realms of KISS FM, the legendary Zanzibar, and the walls adorned with gold discs from Indeep to Janet Jackson. However, Tony is not one to rest on his laurels; his insatiable quest for new challenges defines the Tony of today.

Born into a family deeply rooted in performance, with a father, Rene Grand, who stood shoulder to shoulder with music luminaries like Tito Puente, Tony Humphries was destined for greatness. His DJ journey, spanning an impressive 35 years, began with a fateful encounter with Mastermixer Shep Pettibone at Prelude Records, catapulting him into the limelight.

While Brooklyn raised him, New Jersey shaped him, courtesy of his enduring residency at Club Zanzibar since 1982. Tony’s eclectic touch defined the Jersey sound, a soulful electronic symphony that transcended genres. His studio ventures, though often overshadowed by his DJ prowess, produced iconic remixes, like the sampled ‘Juicy Fruit’ and the disco masterpiece ‘Come Back Lover.’

In the ’90s, Europe embraced Tony’s artistry, echoing through influential venues like Ministry of Sound and Echoes in Rimini. Yellorange and Tony Records, his label ventures, showcased a diverse range of styles, from soulful vocals to Afro-Cuban flavors.

Tony’s journey took an unexpected turn in 2009 when he joined forces with ‘Little’ Louie Vega and David Morales for the Kings of House at Webster Hall, a global phenomenon that transcended continents.

Today, Tony’s legacy extends beyond the past; it’s about where he’s heading. As Eli Goldstein of Soul Clap attests, Tony Humphries embodies the spirit of the New York house scene, seamlessly blending the old with a unique modern house sound. Tony Humphries isn’t just a man or a musician; he’s a living testament to the evolution of dance music—a legend in perpetual motion.