Shoulder to shoulder radio: a deep story in every beat
Shoulder to Shoulder Radio was born out of a desire to create something more than just a music stream. It’s an experience—a space where the raw energy of house and hip-hop collide, sparking new conversations and perspectives. Fueled by Monkey Shoulder, this 27-hour journey invited listeners to explore the space between genres and discover how music evolves in the hands of artists who see beyond labels. It's not just about the beats or the rhythm, but the connections these sounds foster—the stories that live within the music.
From the moment the stream went live, it was clear this was no ordinary mix. Artists connected to both movements were given a chance to reveal the side of themselves that often remains hidden behind the beats. They were more than DJs; they were storytellers. The result? A captivating array of sounds—perfect for any time of the day. Whether it was the gentle, hypnotic beats to wake up to, the energetic tracks for cruising through the city, or the deep, reflective sets for after-hours, each set was a reflection of personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs.
One of the standout contributions came from Jerrau, whose set fluidly wove together hip-hop, house, and experimental electronica. The depth of his selection and his ability to move between genres with ease made for a listening experience that was both electrifying and introspective. His approach to music is instinctive, pushing beyond genre labels to create something uniquely his own. For him, it’s about the connection—connecting to the music, the moment, and the listener. It was a raw yet polished performance that stayed with you long after the final track faded out.
Then there was Elias Mazian, who took us on a journey through his musical roots. In a deeply personal reflection, Mazian described how hip-hop was his first love. As a teenager, the beats from legends like Pete Rock, DJ Premier, and Q-Tip shaped his formative years. This wasn’t just a walk down memory lane; it was a declaration of how those early experiences with music have shaped him as an artist today. His 90-minute set for Shoulder to Shoulder Radio was a tribute to those iconic 90s hip-hop tracks that first captivated him, mixed with precision and care. Mazian was more than just a DJ; he was a time traveler, revisiting his musical past while carving out new moments for today.
And let’s not forget Doudou MD, whose journey was one of both physical and spiritual movement. Known for her connection to R&B and hip-hop, her set was an embodiment of her artistic growth. In a candid conversation with Job Woesthuis, Doudou shared how growing up in a musical family and discovering dance was a gateway to her passion. For Doudou, music isn’t just sound—it’s a language that speaks to the soul, a tool for both expression and healing. Her set was powerful, with every track chosen reflecting her journey from the underground to the mainstream, all while maintaining a strong sense of individuality.
The entire Shoulder to Shoulder Radio experience went beyond music—it was a space where artists and listeners could dive deep into the stories that shape the sounds. The conversations were just as compelling as the music itself, offering an unfiltered look into the minds of some of the most exciting artists in the scene today. The Monkey Shoulder living room at Radio Radio served as a relaxed yet intimate space where artists felt free to open up about their creative processes, their influences, and the deeper meaning behind their music.
Ultimately, Shoulder to Shoulder Radio isn’t just about exploring genres. It’s about the energies these genres represent. House music’s hypnotic pulse and hip-hop’s rhythmic storytelling come together to celebrate movement, evolution, and connection. It’s about finding common ground between different sounds, stories, and people. It’s a reminder that music is more than just entertainment—it’s a form of resistance, a way to tell stories, and a universal language that connects us all.
So, if you haven’t already, dive into the full 27-hour journey and let yourself be transported into a world where music, culture, and conversation collide. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it.
About Monkey Shoulder
Monkey Shoulder is the world’s first triple malt whisky, introduced in 2003 and crafted from three 100% single malts from Scotland’s Speyside region. While it can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, its smooth and versatile character makes it ideal for whisky cocktails. This inspired the brand’s "Made for Mixing" slogan, positioning Monkey Shoulder as a pioneer in breaking conventions and creating innovative experiences.
The name Monkey Shoulder pays homage to a historic shoulder injury that maltmen in distilleries used to develop from manually turning malted barley. Once known as "Monkey Shoulder," this condition now serves as a tribute to the craftsmanship and tradition of whisky-making.
