We recently connected with Sparks Thee and have shared our conversation below.

Sparks, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

I didn’t grow up with both of my parents. I lost my dad when I was really young, so most of my upbringing came from my mom, and later my grandfather stepping in as a big influence in my life.

My mom did what I think a lot of people underestimate: she took me seriously. When I started getting into DJing and music, she didn’t brush it off as a phase. Before I could even drive, she was the one taking me to events, gigs, or anywhere I needed. That kind of support matters more than people realize, especially when you’re young and trying to figure out what you want to do. It showed me that if I was willing to work at something, it deserved to be taken seriously. She also instilled a strong sense of priority and safety. Working in nightlife and entertainment can pull people in a lot of different directions, but from early on I was taught to move smart, protect myself, and understand that opportunities aren’t worth much if you lose yourself along the way.

My grandfather stepped in as another huge source of support. He believed in the legacy of what I was doing and helped tremendously early on. When you’re starting out, even small things like that can make a massive difference. He also helped me get some of my first opportunities and starter gigs, which gave me a real foothold in the industry.

Looking back, what they did right was simple but powerful: they supported my interests, they believed in my work ethic, and they made sure I stayed grounded while chasing what I wanted to do. That combination shaped not just my career path, but the way I approach everything. I take opportunities seriously, I work hard when someone believes in me, and I try to build pride in the people who’ve supported me.

Sparks, 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?

I’ve been DJing most of my life. I started when I was about 12 years old, and even back then I realized how powerful music could be. What hooked me wasn’t just playing songs, it was watching how the right music could completely change the energy of a room. Seeing people smile, dance, and forget about everything for a moment because of something I played made me fall in love with the craft early on.

Over the years I’ve had the chance to DJ for just about every type of crowd you can imagine. I’ve played everything from packed clubs and concerts to frat lots, private events, and very personal life celebrations. Each environment is different, but the goal is always the same: read the room, understand the moment, and give people an experience they’ll remember. Professionally, I DJ under my own brand while also serving clients such as Jay’s Bar and Grill in the Vista in Columbia, South Carolina. In that role I help manage talent, organize events, and shape the entertainment experience at the venue. Through my team I’m also able to provide more than just DJ services, including things like photography, photo booths, games, and full entertainment packages for larger events.

What I’m most proud of is that I still approach every gig with the same passion I had when I first started. Whether it’s a huge crowd or a small celebration, I take pride in doing the job right. My goal has always been simple: create real moments for real people.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

One of the most rewarding parts of being a creative is the feeling of connection with people. There’s a certain kind of “glory” in it, but not in a vain way. It’s more about the exchange of energy between you and the people experiencing what you create. When you put something into the world and people genuinely love it, respond to it, or feel something because of it, that feeling is incredibly powerful.

For me, I’ve always loved that moment when music or a creative idea brings people together. I love seeing people happy, dancing, celebrating, or just enjoying themselves because of something I helped create. That kind of appreciation reminds me why I started doing this in the first place. It’s not just about performing or making things, it’s about creating moments people connect with and remembering that the work actually means something to others.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

One book that has influenced my thinking around strategy and entrepreneurship is The 33 Strategies of War by Robert Greene. While the book uses the language of warfare, the lessons really translate into navigating competitive industries and understanding how people move, think, and make decisions. It helped me look at the music and nightlife world a little differently, not just as entertainment, but as an environment where timing, positioning, and awareness of the bigger picture matter.

One idea that stuck with me is learning how to navigate the winding path of an industry while building relationships you can genuinely rely on. Success rarely comes from trying to do everything alone. Greene talks a lot about understanding allies, knowing when to move forward and when to stay patient, and making decisions with long-term strategy in mind. That perspective helped me focus on building real connections and moving thoughtfully through opportunities rather than just reacting to whatever

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparksthee