Stereofunk creator loves his wild child

Apr 16 2009 by Graham Fraser, Hamilton Advertiser

STEREOFUNK co-founder Stevie Lennon admits that the event’s ever-growing status in the UK dance scene can be nerve-wracking at times.

But that’s nothing compared to the sense of satisfaction he gets afterwards, as the Strathclyde Park show has become a huge success in the four years it has been running.

This year’s event will take place in the park on Sunday, May 3, and runs from 12pm to 10pm.

The 30-year-old Bellshill man has been DJing in venues across Scotland, including Motherwell’s Mega Bar for around seven years, and came up with idea of a mini-festival in Strathclyde Park with fellow DJ and Stereofunk co-founder Craig Kelman, of East Kilbride.

Since then, the name has been synonymous with outdoor partying and unsigned talent.

Stevie said: “It’s Stereofunk’s fourth birthday this year and we have top tributes acts like the Complete Stone Roses and the Underground Jam playing.

“We’re trying to attract a wider audience this year by going down the band route. We had the unsigned bands stage last year and it worked really well.

“Rather than going and spending loads on international guest DJs we are bringing a different aspect to it. I suppose it’s all about trying to connect to different people in different ways.”

Also on this year’s bill are Radio Clyde’s breakfast DJ George Bowie and special guests from Colours Jon Mancini and Ian "Boney" Clark. Also playing is Stevie himself, alongside his Stereofunk partner Craig.

The duo are expecting a crowd of up to 2000 at the summer bash.

“I think it should be even bigger than last year,” said Stevie. “It’s a good group of people that go to Stereofunk and they are always up for it. They like what we do.”

“I suppose it is just a really good day out and it has gone from strength to strength. We have had a lot of recognition across the country for the brand now and we play Stereofunk nights in Edinburgh, Falkirk and Stirling regularly. The name is getting out their a bit more.”

Stevie and Craig were also involved in the organisation of last year’s massive Parklife event at Strathclyde Park and had Radio 1 dance legend Judge Jules playing in the Stereofunk tent.

Despite this, Stevie wants to keep his feet on the ground: “We still want to keep our hands on the event and make sure it keeps its nice intimate feel.

“We don’t want to lose that. There is always the danger that you could lose control of it. If you want to grow something you have to grow it in the right way.”

For information on tickets, visit www.ticket-scotland.co.uk Tickets can also be purchased on the day for £25.

To view footage of last year’s event visit our Video and Pics section of www.hamiltonadvertiser.co.uk