If you’ve been out and about in the San Diego club scene, you’ve surely experienced the bass-pounding fun of DJ Bryan Pruett. With high-profile residencies at The Abbey (Los Angeles) and with Pulse Media events, Bryan has hit his stride, and is extending his influence and converting fans along the way.

Rocket: How did you get started DJing?

Bryan Pruett: I had the great fortune of starting my career as a DJ as the resident at Club Montage. Originally, I took a job there doing the lights so that I could work alongside the DJs that I had come there every weekend to listen to, but I had every hope of eventually moving over to the other side of the booth from day one. After a year of observing and listening to the top DJs on the circuit – and many, many hours of practicing at home – I got my shot and was the resident there for two and a half years.

Rocket: What’s been your most memorable gig to date?

BP: I would have to say that my most memorable gig was New Year’s Eve 2003 at Montage. There were close to a thousand people there that night and I was so nervous that I couldn’t have told you my own name. But the adrenaline rush that I had throughout the night is what I remember most.

Rocket: What’s your dream gig?

BP: I think that the ultimate gig for me would be the Closing Party at White Party – that’s where I usually have the most fun, so I think playing that would be pretty fierce!

Rocket: Who are your influences?

BP: There have been so many incredible DJs who’ve encouraged me along my journey, and I’m truly grateful for their help, support and encouragement: Bryan Pfeifer, Will James, Phil B., Mike Duretto, Alexander and Kimberly S., to name a few. One person in particular who was a big influence at a critical point in my decision making was Tracy Young. While working with her one night – and feeling completely unworthy of playing with the “big boys” – she gave me a pep talk and told me to follow my dreams. So I did.

Musically, however, the unbelievably talented DJs who’ve inspired my “style” with their production are: Alexander, Chris Cox, Tony Moran, Ralphi Rosario, Massi and De León, Scotty K., Ranny, Harrington, Peter Rauhofer, Paulo, Donut, Simon & Shaker, Thomas Penton, Mike Cruz, Mike Rizzo, Eddie X., Eddie Baez, Johnny Vicious, Offer Nissim, Stephan Grodin, Antoine Clamaran, Wayne G., Giuseppe D., Michael Diamond, Petyasb, Peter Presta, Jamie J. Sanchez, Anderstanding, Mark Von Der Heide, Jody den Broeder, Gil Schwartz, Cytric, Friscia & The Lamboy and Edson Pride, just to name a few. I wish I could list them all, because without them I wouldn’t have this awesome job!

Rocket: What are your current favorite remixes and what about them do you like?

BP: Really anything produced by the great artists that I mentioned above – their style drives my soul!

Rocket: What is your all-time favorite remix?

BP: There’s no way that I could narrow it down to just one, so here are a few of my all-time favs: John Lennon’s “Imagine” (Eddie Baez), Grace’s “Not Over Yet” (Planet Perfecto Mix), Antoine Clamaran’s “My Old Piano,” Jam & Spoon’s “Odyssey To Anyoona,” Paul Van Dyk’s “Nothing But You,” Soul Logic’s “Let’s Get Together” (Chicco Secci and Robbie Rivera), Safri Duo’s “Played-A-Live” and

Soulsearcher’s “I Can’t Get Enough” (Jonathan Peters).

Rocket: Who are some artists to look out for?

BP: Well, you recently introduced me to Breathwaite, who, in my opinion, is one of the best new male vocalists around. And in a field that’s dominated by thousands of incredible women (and a handful of average men), he’s a long-awaited and welcome addition. His first two singles, “Don’t Lie” and “Show You,” produced by you and De León are hot, hot, hot! He’s a sweet guy, too, so I wish him all the best.

Another new artist to look out for is Mona Chatterjee, whose new dance hit, “Move With Me,” remixed by Scotty K and Solar City, is now available at www.perfectbeat.com.

Rocket: How would you describe the genre of music you play?

BP: My sets consist of a mix of progressive and tribal house with a lot of vocals.

Rocket: Any advice for aspiring DJs?

BP: My advice for becoming a DJ isn’t really any different than my philosophy on everything, which is if you take yourself seriously and you set your mind to it, anything is possible. And don’t wait for someone else to make your dreams come true.

Rocket: Where and when in S.D. will you be spinning next?

BP: I’m really excited about my next event here in San Diego. It’s a pool party Pride weekend, on Friday, July 28, at the Lafayette Hotel. It’s gonna be an awesome party! Tickets are available at www.gaypridesandiego.com.

Rocket: Is there anything else you would like to say?

BP: Yes, a huge thank you to my partner, Tony, my friends, my family and my fans for all of your love and continued support. God bless!

You can find more information about Bryan, including his upcoming play dates, at www.myspace.com/djbryanpruett.