1. Tell us a little about yourself and your company! I began my career as a DJ in 1988 as a club and lounge DJ in New York City and through the years have mastered the art of mixing and music programming. My style is wildly eclectic. I play music from all around the world, from rock to jazz, funk to classics (70’s & 80’s), house to hip-hop, and beyond. If it has soul and personality, I'm on board! My philosophy is simple, the party begins when I arrive. There is no lapse in the quality of music, and I work the entire time. I'm not the type of DJ who blabs on the mic all night. I connect with the crowd through the best music and proper programming, that's all you need. By taking music you have requested and infusing songs I feel will compliment your selections, together we can create the perfect atmosphere for your event. In 1995 I began a career as the National Director Of Promotion for various Major and Independent record companies. Some of the artists I have promoted include Gloria Estefan, Celine Dion, George Michael, Jamiroquai, and Donna Summer. 2. Why Dis You Decide to Get Into the Business Music is the one constant in my life. From an early age, it has touched my soul more than anything else. I used to listen to dJ’s mixing on the radio and was fascinated how they blended songs. I wanted to do that. Djing was the obvious next step for me. My parents didn’t believe in my choice to become a dJ but I did it anyway. I was 15 and had no money so I pieced together the lousiest dj setup and learned on that. It was two different turntables, an amplifieer with an 8 track player, small speakers, and a cheap mixer my friend gave me. Thirty years later I am glad I didn’t listen to my parents! 3. What Is Your Favorite Part of Your Job Watching people go off on the dance floor to their favorite song. I love what music does to people. there is no better feeling than giving in to the music and letting your body do its thing! 4. What’s Something You Learned Over the Years You Would Pass Along to Others Looking to Start Their Own Business? Don’t ever think you are bigger than the music. stay humble, listen to many genres, and focus on creating a vibe with your music. Being a good DJ isn’t about having the latest equipment and pumping your fists. you have to be able to read a crowd and be eclectic so everybody has a good time. stay true to your sound and work the gigs that allow you to be creative and suit your style. the client should always feel they have a voice and you value their opinion. 5. What Do You Like To To In Your Time Away From Work? I have many sides. I have an insatiable appetite for learning new things and helping others. I love being outdoors and foraging for wild food, medicinal mushrooms, and living off the land as much as possible. This is one of the reasons I moved to Maine. 6. What Has Been Your Favorite Moment In Your Business? I’ve had so many. One would be playing to a sea of people at the legendary Ministry of Sound Club in London 1997. 7. What Makes You Different From Others In Your Field? My experience and knowledge of so many genres of music. My ability to create an incredible eclectic vibe. My business is strictly word of mouth and I purposely keep it that way. I don’t use the mic unless I have to. One of my gifts is connecting with people the various styles of music. If you play great music from beginning to end, you don’t need to get on the mic and motivate the crowd. 8. Are There Any Trends That You Absolutely Love of Would Love to See Left Behind? Many big name Dj’s around the world have become pop stars and do more posing than creative music programming. they are paid tons of money, their sets are pre-planned and generic. I come from the school of DJ’s where we play the entire night and it’s about the music and not us. 9. If You Could Anything Else In The World, What Would You Do? Nothing. I’m doing it right now. I have three career paths that are the result of my journey through life. I wouldn’t trade being an entrepreneur for anything. If you want to contact Funky DJ, feel free to email him at [email protected]
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