For nearly 15 years Garth Trinidad has brought his mix of soul, R&B, hip hop and jazz to KCRW, the Santa Monica-based affiliate of NPR. Trinidad, who also programs music for film and television and runs his own multimedia company, spun at Zócalo’s second annual fundraiser. Before taking the stage, he took our In The Green Room Q&A.
Q. Where would we find you at 10 a.m. on a typical Saturday?
A. Hanging out with my children.
Q. What music have you listened to today?
A. I was going over different songs for tonight. I listened to “My Favorite Things” from John Coltrane, some classic prince, and probably a thousand other songs.
Q. What do you consider to be the greatest simple pleasure?
A. It’s probably corny or played, but, as a father, seeing my kids filled with joy for all the right reasons-when they come into knowledge or understand a principle.
Q. What surprises you most about your life right now?
A. That I have three kids and I’m married. I didn’t think I’d be married until my 40s, and children were a big question.
Q. What do you wish you had the nerve to do?
A. I have a lot of nerve.
Q. When do you feel most creative?
A. At night.
Q. What is your favorite cocktail?
A. Starr African Rum and some Coca-Cola. And sometimes the rum without the coke.
Q. What profession would you like to practice in your next life?
A. I think it’d be a good location scout.
Q. If you could take only one more journey, where would you go?
A. I’d spend the rest of my life exploring Africa.
Q. What is your most prized material possession?
A. My record collection.
Q. Who was your childhood hero?
A. All the mix masters on KDAY, Eric Dressen from Dogtown Skates, Stacy Peralta, a whole bunch of teachers, Ice T and Michael Jackson.
Q. Who is the one person living or dead you would most like to meet for dinner?
A. My aunt Michelle.
*Photo by Aaron Salcido.