DJ Shiftee (born Samuel Morris Zornow on January 27, 1986) is an American DJ and turntablist renowned for his technical mastery, world-championship titles including the 2009 world DMC title.
Growing up in New York City, Shiftee began DJing around the age of 13 after receiving his first turntables and mixer. He quickly immersed himself in the competitive side of DJ culture, becoming the youngest champion of the DMC New York Regional in 2003 at age 17.
Competitive Achievements
- In 2007, Shiftee won the DMC Battle for World Supremacy.
- In 2009, he captured the DMC World DJ Championship title, earning induction into the DMC Hall of Fame.
- His accolades also include regional titles (such as DMC USA and DMC East Coast) and an IDA/ITF world vice-champion finish in 2008.
Style & Innovation
Shiftee is celebrated not only for blazing technical skills—scratch patterns, beat-juggling, rapid fader work—but also for his musicality and versatility. He often blends hip-hop roots with modern production elements, live performance flair, and teaching/educational roles in DJ culture.
DJ Shiftee is more than a champion—he’s a key figure in the evolution of turntablism over the last two decades. From his early dominance as a teenager in NYC, to world titles, to his role in education and live performance, he bridges raw technique and creative expression.