We had the good fortune of connecting with DJ Laggz and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi DJ Laggz, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The art of DJing has always caught my ear and at the young age of 5, I found myself listening to music in a way that others in my family did not. While they were singing along to the songs, I would listen to not only the vocals but the various instruments in the background. The moment I heard DJ’s like Mr.Choc and Coke-E mixing and scratching on the radio, I knew I wanted to learn what they were doing. At that moment, a lifelong passion was born and I pursued DJing as a career. I had my first paid gig when I was 17 years old and I loved being able to take a crowd of people on a musical journey that could uplift and excite them to escape the stresses of the day-to-day.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
DJing has been a lifelong passion that I have been blessed with pursuing as a career. Hard work, sleepless nights and practice, practice, practice! Consistency is key in any field and its no different when it comes to DJing. I like to say, a good DJ never stops learning.
From mobile gigs to club and radio jobs, I have always maintained a “clean sound” when it comes to mixing and scratching which in turn has opened the door for many opportunities such as corporate events and radio work. Reading a crowd and pivoting at a moments notice is important to maintain an energized dance floor.
I wouldn’t say being a good DJ is easy, there have definitely been challenges along the way that have shaped me into a better DJ by learning to adapt to any situation put in my way.
I always do my best to provide an unforgettable experience for my clients and listeners. Anyone can play music but it takes an experienced DJ to take you on a musical journey that uplifts and excites the soul!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them out to a few locally owned businesses such as The Federal in North Hollywood. Amazing food in a 1926 historic building. I’d also have to take them to one of the many rooftop cinemas out here in LA with breathtaking views of the city. For some drinks, I would take them to Fuego Bar & Grill located in Tarzana. Staff and food are next level!
Last but not least, I would take them around to the various museums and historic monuments in the city. Can you tell I love history? haha
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are countless people that have showed love and support over the years and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Starting with my friend Nick Garcia who always supported me from rides to my gigs to making sure I knew of the hottest new music and artists that were coming on to the scene. A true friend and supporter.
I also have to shoutout my good friend and MC, Cynthia Monique. She has had my back on the toughest days and inspired me to be better and reach for opportunities that seemed out of reach at the time.
Big shouout to my friend Gzus for always supporting, showing love and recommending me to Shoutout LA!
Last but not least, I have to shoutout my former Program Director, John Candelaria, for giving me countless opportunities in radio and giving me my first shot at DJing in an arena with attendance well over 18,000. I am forever grateful!
Website: http://www.mixcloud.com/djlaggz/
Instagram: @djlaggz
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@djlaggz
Other: Mixing Weeknights on 101.1 The Bounce https://101bounce.com/dj-laggz/