Meet Al Cuevas | High School Teacher & DJ

We had the good fortune of connecting with Al Cuevas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Al, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
“The most important factor behind my success—and the success of my brand—has been the commitment to relentless improvement and balance. I believe success is never final; there’s always room to grow, new skills to master, and new sounds to explore. What people see at an event or a set is just the tip of the iceberg. Behind the scenes, we put in countless hours prepping, finding music, practicing transitions, and staying current with music trends. It’s a craft that requires dedication far beyond the event itself. And on top of that, balancing family life and my regular teaching job is something I take seriously. It’s about setting priorities and being intentional with my time, but most importantly, it’s about loving what I do and bringing that passion to every aspect of my life. That balance keeps me grounded, focused, and inspired to keep pushing forward.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art as a DJ is about connecting people through music that sparks a feeling and creates an experience they’ll remember. What sets me apart is the intentional blending of genres—hip hop, freestyle, high-energy tracks, classic house, funk, and old school. I’m always working to make my sets feel fresh, with a storytelling arc that lets people tap into the familiar and the unexpected, blending nostalgia with something new.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my commitment to constant learning and skill-building. Taking classes at the Beat Junkies Institute of Sound has been a game-changer for me, adding layers of technical skill and confidence I didn’t have before. The journey to get here wasn’t easy. Balancing DJing with family life and a full-time teaching job means there’s always a challenge, whether it’s finding time to prep for a set, learning new techniques, or even showing up with energy after a long week. But overcoming these challenges comes down to passion and resilience.

A major lesson I’ve learned is that DJing is as much about community as it is about music. Every night isn’t going to be perfect, and that’s okay. What matters is staying humble, working hard behind the scenes, and staying inspired by the people around me. I want the world to know that my story is one of dedication, and that I’m here to bring people together through music. My brand and my story are about creating a vibe where everyone feels part of something bigger, and there’s no better feeling than that

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As an old-school soul, I’d give my best friend a classic LA experience, hitting up iconic spots that have a timeless vibe. We’d start with breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe, a true LA institution, then spend a beach day in Venice, cruising along the boardwalk, grabbing lunch at Great White, and finishing with drinks at The Bungalow. For music, we’d catch a DJ show or live event at The Echoplex in Echo Park, a perfect spot for unforgettable nights. Late-night cravings? We’d head to Sanamluang Cafe in Hollywood for some incredible Thai food. And if it’s basketball season, catching a Lakers game at Crypto Arena would be a must to really experience LA’s sports culture and energy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, my journey wouldn’t be possible without the support and encouragement from the people around me. First and foremost, I have to shout out my family—Matty, Alyana, and Jr.—for their constant love and understanding. They make sacrifices so I can pursue my passion, and their support means everything.

In my DJ crew, I’m especially grateful to Hugo and Aielo. We’re like a family within the music, constantly pushing each other to grow and try new things. We motivate and keep each other accountable to our goals, and that’s something I value deeply.

And finally, I owe so much to the masters at The Beat Junkies Institute of Sound. Their mentorship has pushed my skills to another level. They’ve shown me not just the technical side, but the heart and discipline that true artistry requires. Each of these people has been a huge part of my journey, and I wouldn’t be here without them.

Instagram: @thedjbigal

Twitter: @thedjbigal

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@the.djbigal

Image Credits
All photos/images © The DJ Big Al