We were lucky to catch up with Joey Tang recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Joey , thanks for joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

In a world that often equates success with stability and routine, I find joy in embracing my creativity. My journey as a DJ and music producer is a testament to the exhilarating highs of artistic expression, even as I navigate the uncertainties that come with a non-traditional lifestyle. While thoughts of a regular 9 to 5 job occasionally cross my mind, the freedom and fulfillment I derive from my craft far outweigh the allure of a predictable paycheck.

The allure of a consistent income is a persistent whisper in the back of my mind. It’s a voice that reminds me of the comfort that financial stability can bring, particularly when family needs arise. However, I quickly remind myself of the priceless value of time spent with loved ones. The moments I share with my family are irreplaceable, and I cherish the flexibility that my creative career affords me to be present during those moments. The ability to attend my child’s lion dance performances (shout out to the Immortals Lion Dance Troupe) or have brunch with family without the constraints of a rigid work schedule is a luxury that I hold dear.

Moreover, my freedom to come and go as I please is an essential aspect of my life. This freedom allows me to immerse myself in my passion for music and to dedicate time to honing my craft—a privilege that I do not take for granted. Each day offers me the opportunity to explore new sounds, experiment with different genres, and push the boundaries of my creativity. This time spent in my studio, lost amidst beats and melodies, is not merely an indulgence; it is a vital part of who I am.

Djing and making music serve as my escape, a sanctuary where I can shed the weight of the outside world. In those moments behind the turntables or in front of a computer screen, I can become whoever I wish to be. The music becomes a vessel through which I express emotions that words often fail to capture. When I step into that creative space, I am liberated from the constraints of my everyday life, and I find solace in the rhythm and harmony that surround me.

The satisfaction I experience after a gig is a feeling that is difficult to articulate. When the lights dim and the crowd erupts into cheers, time seems to freeze. In that euphoric moment, I am connected to something greater than myself, bound by the universal language of music. The energy in the room is palpable, and the shared experience of joy and celebration creates an unbreakable bond between the audience and me. It’s a high that transcends any temporary thrill, a feeling I never want to come down from.

Joey , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

When I was younger I would attend school dances and other social activities that included a DJ not to participate in the partying but to watch, listen and study the DJ. It was so fascinating to hear how songs were introduced in the DJ’s sets. The same songs can be played at a different party but feel completely different depending on how the DJ manipulates the track. I knew immediately this is what I wanted to do. I invested countless hours practicing at home, learning the intricacies of mixing tracks, beatmatching, and reading the crowd in the clubs. Each time I stepped behind the turntables, I felt a rush of exhilaration and a deep sense of purpose.

As I began to establish myself as a DJ, I quickly realized that my role extended beyond just playing music. It involved creating a complete experience for my clients and their guests. I took pride in every job, understanding that each event was a reflection of my brand and a chance to showcase my skills. From weddings to corporate events, I approached each gig with the same level of enthusiasm and professionalism. I meticulously planned every set, tailored my playlists to fit the unique vibe of each occasion, and paid close attention to the details that would elevate the overall experience.

One of the most rewarding aspects of building my DJing business has been the overwhelming support from my clients. The majority of my bookings come from word-of-mouth referrals, often stemming from a wedding or another event I’ve DJ’ed at. It is humbling to receive positive feedback and hear how my music contributed to the joy of their special moments. This support not only validates my hard work but also drives me to continually strive for excellence. I have learned that every interaction, from the initial consultation to the final song of the night, is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on my clients’ lives.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Initially, I felt a sense of embarrassment when confronted with the notion that my career choice was merely a “thing.” The term “DJ” can sometimes conjure images of a hobbyist playing music at parties, dismissing the dedication and artistry that go into the craft. It can be challenging to navigate interactions that invoke feelings of inadequacy. When asked, “Are you still doing the DJ thing?” I find myself grappling with a complex mix of emotions. This seemingly innocuous question often serves as a reminder of the societal tendency to downplay non-traditional careers. Yet, my journey as a DJ has been anything but ordinary. It has opened doors to new experiences, diverse cultures, and I now have an incredible team of talented audio engineers and lighting designers who help me transform events into unforgettable experiences.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

In an era dominated by social media, it often seems that the number of followers equates to success. Platforms like Instagram, and Facebook thrive on a culture of virality, where the pursuit of likes and shares can overshadow the intrinsic value of genuine connections. However, my approach to social media is decidedly different. Although my social media presence is not huge, I take pride in the fact that I have cultivated the right followers. My goal is not to accumulate a vast audience but to engage with individuals who resonate with my passion for DJing and appreciate the joy it brings.

Having the right followers means more than just numbers; it means fostering a community that appreciates the art of DJing and engages with the content I create. Each follower is a potential collaborator, a supporter, or simply someone who finds solace in the beats I share. It is not uncommon to receive messages from followers expressing how a particular clip brightened their day. My social media presence serves as a platform for learning and growth. The right followers are not just passive consumers of content; they are participants in a dialogue. Their feedback, suggestions, and encouragement help me refine my craft and encourage me to experiment with new styles and techniques.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thegreyorange.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegreyorange.creative
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/album/2eMa9RGjq2iZCSbfUkfasr?si=lGBDzo24TwehLL_dTBCndA

Image Credits

Photos by: Justin Tang & Sonny Gip