A word from DJ Shadow on regards to DJ Hero.

Since the announcement of the development of DJ Hero the internet has been constantly buzzing on mixed reactions and anticipation for the release of what could be the video game of the year. As many critics, I was skeptical about the concept (seeing what the success of Guitar Hero did for Rock). But then after the names of the artists attached began to surface I was intrigued. Premier Mainstream acts like Black Eye Peas, Jay-Z, Eminem, Pussy Cat Dolls where listed with underground cats like Dj Shadow, Q-Bert and Mix Master Mike. All of the sudden the underground (some of the most hermetic crowd you'll ever encounter) felt that Shadow and the rest of the DJs attached were using the game as a tool to jump in the mainstream and go pop. Dj Shadow, one of my personal favorite Djs of all time, decided to answer critics and underground heads that kept on criticizing his involvement with the video game and released this statement

Now that DJ Hero has been officially announced, I feel it appropriate to make a few (overdue) comments.

Firstly, I would like to thank the Activision and Freestyle team for reaching out and asking me to be involved with the game. I suppose I don’t immediately spring to mind when “party-rocking DJ” is the prerequisite, although throughout my career I have strived for the opportunity to demonstrate my versatility. In any case, I appreciate them taking the chance, and have been thrilled with the fruits borne of the relationship thus far.

As a DJ I have accomplished many things, from clubs to radio, television and beyond. I have made bedroom mixes, and worked in the most elaborate studios. I have demonstrated scratch solos in front of disinterested, if not hostile picnic-goers (as a sophomore in High School), and co-headlined the Hollywood Bowl (with Cut Chemist.) I have performed on both ‘Top of the Pops” and the David Letterman show. I have imitated my heroes, and watched with quiet satisfaction as others have imitated me. I think it’s time I recognize publicly what even my most ardent critic would concede: I have paid my dues.

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