Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Aiko Finesse . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Aiko, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?
It’s my birth name. My mom named me Aiko Finesse. My first name came from a Japanese movie in 1987 “Kiss of Death.” Finesse came from the shampoo company. I honestly use too hate my name because people always say it wrong. In 2011 I auditioned for 106 & Park in New York. At that time I was going by Ak Lyrics. One one the judges asked me what did Ak stand for, I told her my first name. She said is was different and unique and from that day on go by Aiko. Please was using Finesse heavy so I added it on.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was born and raised in a small town, Newberry South Carolina. I’ve always had a passion for the arts. Music, dance, fashion, writing. Music and writing has always been an outlet for me growing up. Poetry, music. I was on the rap scene awhile. I slowly started to lose interest. As I got into my mid twenties, I picked up dj’ing. Which at first was a hobby. But the more I got into, it became a passion I then created into a business. When people think of dj’ing, they think of the funny side, the partying. But for me, its so much deeper. I love to. see people enjoying life. Smiling, dancing. Creating memories. And it’s because of the music I play. In this business you can’t just play whatever whenever. You have to study the crowd, their energy. Thats’s what sets me aside from everybody else. I’m proud of the great memories I build for others. From their weddings, to family events. They’ll always remember how good the music was. My craft has been tested when it came to the genre of music. Even though I’m R&B/Hip Hop, I’ve had Jazz only events. Pop and country. And even though I was a nervous wreak, my clients were very very pleased with my services. That makes me proud. It always lets me know that no matter the setting, I can and will succeed.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
Professionalize and how I present myself. Not most Dj’s focus on the business side. I feel that when you put that business look in front, people take you serious.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
My supporters, my clients. When I look at how far I came, where I came from. If it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in. Because they allowed me in the room to show what I can do, it opens up door after door. Like a domino affect. Them plus my skills is the key.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.aikofinesse.com
- Instagram: aikofinesse
- Facebook: aikofinesse
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/aikofinesse
Image Credits
Alex Fuller