Darone Sassounian

Darone Sassounian is a DJ, producer, and compiler from Los Angeles. He runs the label, Rocky Hill. Sassounian focuses on bringing an array of sounds into the world - ranging from styles introduced to him at an early age to sounds he sought after later on.

The name “Rocky Hill” is inspired by the neighborhood Sassounian was born and raised in. The neighborhood is a personal symbol of solace and safety, which correlates with the philosophy of the label. Varying in style, the label has a limitless viewpoint. Rocky Hill knows no boundaries, and its main purpose is to set out on an endless soul-searching musical expedition.

Influenced by music made in the 70’s and 80’s, his goal is to approach contemporary audiences by clashing the old with the new. Styles ranging from disco, soul, jazz, international obscurities, and house.​

In 2021, Darone released the celebrated compilation, “Silk Road: Journey of the Armenian Diaspora: 1971 - 1982” on Terrestrial Funk.

In 2022, he began releasing his solo projects on Rocky Hill. Darone Sassounian focuses on releasing music on his label that has no boundaries and no genre specifications. He focuses on releasing projects that have a rougher and rawer approach to house music, allowing him to express himself the best way he can without much pre-meditation.

Sassounian has had a monthly residency at Los Angeles venue, Club Tee Gee, since 2019. Curating and DJing Rocky Hill Residency nights with the art director of the label, Arthur Kaplan, and special guests.

In Spring of 2023, Darone Sassounian began his online radio residency at Los Angeles’s highly acclaimed, Dublab.