Team Brisk Streamer of the Week: Johnny Rico

We are heading to Brisbane, Australia, to have a chat with local legend Johnny Rico! Immerse yourself in the creative process of one of Australia’s best producers with his distinctive sound that is firmly entrenched in Progressive House, Melodic House & Techno, a wealth of solo productions, and a brand-new record label. Read on, folks!

Where are you from and where are you living now?

I’m originally from Sydney, now relocated to Brisbane.

How did you come up with your DJ name?

I used to work in the film industry. Some movies included Star Wars Episode 3, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Mission Impossible 2, and a few others. The first film I worked on was with the guys from Tippet Studios who did the VFX on Starship Troopers. The lead actor was called Johnny Rico in the film, and apparently I look just like him. So the first day I walked on set, everyone said, ‘OMG, it’s Johnny Rico’ and the name has stuck ever since.

What’s your equipment list?

2 x Pioneer CDJ 3000s
Allen and Heath Xone 96 mixer
Technics 1200s turntables
Sony RX100 III camera
Elgato Cam Link 4K capture card
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 soundcard
Macbook Pro M3 laptop
Sennheiser HD25 headphones

Where did your musical journey begin?

When I first purchased my Technics 1200s in 2001, I began performing in Sydney’s pubs and clubs.

What made you decide to take up DJing?

I was exposed to house music since the late 1980s, participated in the Sydney party scene in the early 1990s, and then made the decision to purchase some decks.

What are some of your interests/hobbies/passions outside of streaming/DJing?

I spend a lot of time producing music, and I recently launched my own label, Naked Force. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games.

When did you start streaming on Twitch?

My streaming journey began in October 2021.

Is there anything you really hope to accomplish in your life, whether it be related to music or not?

I’ve reached the top 10 in Melodic House & Techno thus far, but my goal is to have a number one hit on Beatport.

Who are some of your favourite streamers? Why?

JilloBird – so supportive with a huge heart
Mila Pietrak – another supportive streamer who plays 8 hours plus
Zoltak – just a legend with similar tastes in music
Brisk – for starting an amazing team!

What is your favourite genre to play? Why?

Progressive House, Melodic House & Techno. I love chord progressions, uplifting melodies that stick in your subconscious

What are some of the most memorable events you’ve participated in or streamed?

Being a part of the Ken Jones charity event was a true pleasure, as it was for such a worthwhile cause.

What does Team Brisk mean to you?

Being part of a supportive community where we all have a common goal of sharing our passion of music.

What’s your favourite thing about DJing on Twitch?

Definitely the community, it’s amazing the people you meet from all around the world who appreciate your music.

What is a challenge you’ve faced as a DJ/streamer?

Probably time zones, a lot of my viewers are from the States so as I’m finishing my set, they are waking up. Oh and the crap NBN we have here in Australia, internet can just drop out with no warning.

Do you have any special projects, streams or events you would like to tell us about?

Every time I finish a new track, I always premiere it on Twitch. I love playing a newly produced track to the Twitch family.

Is there anyone you’d like to shout out and/or thank?

Special shout out to Liquid Bongo who convinced me to stream on Twitch, was a very memorable first kitchen stream to say the least.