Launching the second season of Where It’s At, Jefferson Hack is joined by Mark Ronson to discuss the release of his new memoir, Night People
Where It’s At returns for its second season with host Jefferson Hack in conversation with Grammy-winning producer and DJ Mark Ronson. The episode dives into Ronson’s new memoir, Night People, a vivid chronicle of 1990s New York club and hip hop culture. Ronson traces the pulse of a city alive with creativity, recounting nights behind the decks with icons like Prince, Lady Gaga and Amy Winehouse. With humour and honesty, Ronson and Hack reflect on the hedonism and hustle that shaped Ronson’s sound and story.
In the episode, Ronson recounts anecdotes such as DJing at Sweet Thing with Biggie Smalls and Big Frank, reflecting on the thrill and pressure of spinning records in a scene that was transforming music history in real time. He reveals that he interviewed around 150 people while researching the book, capturing the vivid stories that pay tribute to the heroes of early hip hop. He talks about his obsession with music, in particular hip hop – from discovering Public Enemy and the Beastie Boys to digging through crates for obscure 60s and 70s vinyls that would later define his sound.
The conversation turns deeply personal as Ronson opens up about the darker side of nightlife – panic attacks, addiction and the relentless drive that both propelled and nearly consumed him. He recalls surreal moments like DJing at a Prince party and accidentally playing a Michael Jackson song, and reflects on the grounding influence of mentors and friends who helped him navigate fame.
Season 2 of Where It’s At is available now on podcast platforms.
