BEHIND THE SOUND

Jason Whitmire.

DJAlchemy · WE Records · Photography

Jason Whitmire, DJAlchemy, performing at the mixing decks
DJAlchemy, in his element.

Jason Whitmire, also known in the music circles as DJAlchemy, embarked on his musical journey in 1988, deeply inspired by a Skinny Puppy concert in Houston, TX. His initial musical explorations were rooted in the industrial and techno genres of the late '80s and early '90s. Whitmire's passion for music expanded after being introduced to underground techno through Chris Anderson's KTRU radio show in 1991, leading him to delve deeper into the scene at Megazone Records, managed by Andrei Morant.

Beyond his contributions as a DJ and promoter, Whitmire made significant strides in artist management, public relations, marketing, and serving as a booking agent. His entrepreneurial endeavors led to the creation of WE (Whitmire Empire) Records in 1996, diving into indie rock with the management of Secret Sunday and the release of their debut album. This move was pivotal, with WE Records becoming renowned for the “Please Rewind And Play Again” compilation CD series, which highlighted the eclectic nature of electronic music.

Whitmire's client roster speaks volumes of his industry versatility, managing acts such as Turquoise Insomnia, Secret Sunday (1999 Houston Press Music Awards winner for Album of the Year), I-45 (1999 winner for Best Rap/Hip-Hop), DETHKULTUR BBQ, Alien Swirl, Vertigo Blue, and overseeing Broken Note Records (winner of the 1999 Houston Press Music Award for Best Record Label).

Simultaneously, Whitmire cultivated a professional photography career from 2003 to 2011, freelancing for esteemed publications like Spin, Alternative Press, Urb, and capturing music events for Scion. This period marked a significant expansion of his artistic expression, allowing him to document vibrant musical moments through his lens. Whitmire plans to release a book documenting the Austin Electronic Dance Music scene from 2003 to 2008, providing an intimate look at the community and culture before the widespread adoption of the iPhone, highlighting a pivotal era in music history.

As DJAlchemy, Whitmire traversed the US, spinning an eclectic mix from techno to trance until the early 2000s. Following a brief hiatus, he returned with a focus on downtempo and acid jazz, securing residencies and championing the downtempo scene. Despite another break to focus on photography, Whitmire returned to manage bands and DJ, proving his enduring influence in the music scene.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

In the press.

Stories from Houston’s music scene, and the moments behind the sound.

HOUSTON PRESS ·

Static

Houston Press covers Jason Whitmire’s tribute concert for Skinny Puppy’s Dwayne Goettel at the Abyss, tracing the industrial music influences behind his early work as a promoter.

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HOUSTON PRESS ·

Breakin’ Up the Bands

Spotlight: Slipstream Sensations

In the column’s “’Round Town” section, Mariani previews Slipstream Sensations, Jason Whitmire’s first outing as a rave promoter. The May 27, 2000 event brought DJs to Houston’s Amadeus Ballroom.

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Slipstream Sensations · May 27, 2000

Slipstream Sensations

Full Slipstream Sensations flyer with the event lineup, venue and ticket information

May 27, 2000 · Amadeus Ballroom · Houston, Texas