Police found 36-year-old AdamGoldstein aka DJ AM dead in a New York City apartment last week, and
music lost one of its most uniquely popular, yet wildly
underappreciated talents. To many of the uninformed, Goldstein was
simply a spinner to the stars. His name often popped up on blogs and
entertainment sites amongst the details as the latest celebrity party
or international hipster bash was being recounted. His former
engagement to celebutante and tabloid fixture Nicole Ritchie and his
relationship with singer-songwriter Mandy Moore only furthered the
perception of AM as one of the Hollywood cool kids who only became
famous because of who they dated or happened to party with. But AM was
more than just a fixture among the A-listers. Beneath the surface, DJ
AM was quietly one of the more eclectic and adventurous DJs in the
country.
He had the technique and gall to mix
classic hip-hop, electronica and big band with rarities like the “Andy
Griffith Show” theme. He was unafraid to push the boldest musical
buttons even while catering to a client list that most DJs would kill
for. He played parties the world over and fans raved about his
willingness to take risks, no matter how rich and powerful the
clientele grew to become.
AM and longtime friend Travis Barker survived a horrific plane crash in
Georgia less than a year ago. Friends and associates stated that,
though Goldstein was working, he was having trouble dealing with the
post traumatic stress and the ongoing pain resulting from the accident.
He had battled addiction throughout much of his adult life, but it
seems that the crash had a negative affect on him physically and
mentally.
Authorities
have confirmed that drug paraphernalia was found at Goldstein’s
apartment and speculation is running high that his death was the result
of an accidental overdose. –todd williams
