This week, I’m joined by Nancy Cook – aka DJ Crash Doll – a true multi-hyphenate whose creative world spans art, styling, record collecting, and, of course, vinyl DJing, all filtered through a distinctly vintage lens.
Nancy first fell for DJing back in college in the late ’80s, and has been dipping in and out of the scene ever since. Now she’s getting people grooving at some of the coolest underground clubs in New York City and New Jersey.
In our conversation, Nancy shares the records that got her hooked, a few top tips for anyone curious about vinyl DJing, and lets us in on her favourite crate-digging spots:
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m Nancy a record collector, DJ, radio host, vintage seller, talent booker, stylist and artist. I DJ under Crash Doll in bars, clubs, music shows, radio and events. I also recently started a radio show on Radio Garden State on Wednesdays from 12-1 which I do from my home. I’m very involved in the vintage, art and music scene in New York and New Jersey. As a talent booker it’s extremely important for me to put women artists on stage so 9/10 shows will always include women.
“When I DJ my mood is elevated the moment I start”
What sparked your interest in collecting records?
I’ve always loved records ever since my first childhood 45s and Disney records. My first record that I purchased was Echo and the Bunnymen, Songs to Learn and Sing. That first record was played so much and still comes out with me to gigs.
I loved being able to walk into record shops that would play whatever caught my eye and learned about so much music that way before the digital age which inspired me to keep going.
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
Vinyl is physical and personal. Listening and playing vinyl is completely different than streaming. When I put the needle on the record I’m transported and present and all in. When I DJ my mood is elevated the moment I start. There is so much to say about the difference in sound quality that you just don’t get from any other medium and I love physical media.
When did you start DJ’ing, and what got you behind the decks?
I started DJing in 1988 in college in Pennsylvania and also in New Jersey when I transferred schools. It was definitely one of my favourite things about college and I’m so glad I made the plunge. I also DJ’d places like the Limelight in NYC in the early 90s.
After a 20 year break I returned to DJing in 2016 and now DJ all the time. I honestly love it so much and it brings me so much joy.
What can we expect from one of your sets?
I spin a high energy set that brings the heat and keeps your toes tapping and hips shaking! You can expect indie pop, punk, garage rock, jangle pop, post punk, 60s Yé-yé, rockabilly, surf and more.
What advice would you give someone wanting to try vinyl DJ’ing?
I would suggest going to see other DJs spin and vinyl meet ups and open turntables and just throwing yourself into it. These types of events have short sets (usually 20-30 minutes) so low pressure and you will get to meet other DJs and learn from each other.
What’s the most prized record in your collection?
So hard to choose… All of my records by The Cramps and all of my riot girl 45s from the 90s – Huggy Bear’s “Her Jazz” is one favourite.
Where do you like to go crate-digging?
I love digging at record fairs especially ones I participate in – WFMU Record Fair and Maplewood Record Fair. I always love seeing what’s in at my local shop, Soma Sounds. I also recently enjoyed a visit to women owned Boro Records in Freehold. Rough Trade is always fun too. And of course when I’m out sourcing vintage I always check out the records. I have several friends who sell records and I get sweet deals from them as well.
Follow Nancy and get your toes tapping over on Instagram.
Support Vinylettes: buy me a coffee.
