Spinner Remembers DJ AM as 'The People's DJ'

Back in 2006, AOL Music was presented with the opportunity to host a radio station programmed by DJ AM. As music director of all DJ-oriented stations, I jumped at the opportunity. My eagerness to work with Adam Goldstein wasn't because of his rising celebrity status but rather because he was one of the most uniquely talented DJs I had ever experienced. Many DJs are niche experts, be it in downtempo, minimal techno, hip-hop, house, funk, etc. Adam was an expert in all. More so, he could seamlessly fuse these together, making a sound all his own -- one that appealed to all listeners. He was the people's DJ but he was also the DJ's DJ.

In many ways, Adam's track selection on the AOL radio station told his story. Well, at least half of it. His lightning quick skills on the turntables certainly told the other half. Adam's radio station and live sets were a place of musical harmony; a place where Bill Withers, Britney Spears, Justice, Led Zeppelin, White Snake and Stevie Wonder were given equal respect and equal touch. Adam -- a true music lover -- could easily pluck the latest and greatest while giving new life to lost classics.

When Michael Jackson passed away in June, Adam told Spinner that the King of Pop would live on through his turntables. Now, Adam will live on through our speakers.

Adam, it was an honor. Rest in peace.