Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dj Mode. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
DJ , appreciate you joining us today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?
I am fortunate enough to have created a full-time living from my creative work. I have built my own sound agency and am the Music director of the New York City FC. I began my professional career at the age of 17 as an intern at a DJ school in New York City. I was privileged to interact with a group of exemplary DJ’s who all took a different approach to their careers. One particular DJ by the name of Todd Mallis and myself struck up a friendship and by proximity I was able to see him operate as both a club and corporate DJ who conducted himself in a professional manner. For me the major turn in the trajectory of my career came in 2008 when I was asked to DJ at the 2008 NBA All Star Weekend while djing a celebration event for Jimmy Rollins of the Philadelphia Phillies where he was named the MLB’s National League MVP of that year.
My music career pivoted when I was named associate music director at Madison Square Garden, from there I was named the Music director of the New York City FC. From there I produced music for commercials and television shows, and became an investor in Symphony no.3 rum.
It’s never too late to continue learning and growing in your field. Seeking out mentors with more experience in client communication and value proposition could help you further expand your reach and opportunities. I could have benefited from tapping into this earlier instead of being entirely self reliant. I can see how it would have sped up my process however the lessons learned Invaluable.
DJ , 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 started my DJ career at the age of 13 honing my skills. At just 19 years old I began playing nightclubs and corporate events. From there, I toured across the US for the Volkswagen brand, eventually landing the role of Associate Music Director at Madison Square Garden. I then stepped into the position of Music Director for the New York City FC in 2015.
In 2016, I founded My Music Experience Inc., and took on a music director role at the US Open. Alongside my DJ’ing skills, I excel in music production and sound design. With a diverse musical taste and a professionalism, I have accumulated over 20 years of experience and have worked with top brands such as Nike, Peloton, and Cadillac to name a few.
My ability to build trust with my clients by effectively delivering a music experience to elevate their creative vision. By
transforming their sonic ideas into reality we establish a trust and synergistic relationship.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
For me it is imperative to approach every live and recorded experience with integrity. My love and respect for the art form of dj’ing is one that I hold in high regard. When involved in a project I not only interpret the vision of the client but I am sure to allow space for genuine inspiration. I treat the music creation and curating process as a painter approaches a canvas with unlimited colors at their disposal. I draw from inspirations that span all cultures, genres, and rhythms. I want what I create to effectively articulate feelings.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
I find great fulfillment in my role as a live Music director. The instant reactions from the audience to my song choices are rewarding. I have the opportunity to enhance and complement the energy of the sporting events I am involved in through my music selections. Whether it’s adding to the intensity of a tennis rally or highlighting a crucial moment with a well-timed track during a timeout, I enjoy creating memorable experiences for those present.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djmodenyc/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammerced/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj5uZZ3uijdgz1oWzJ9Kggw
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/therealmode
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0x7Yi5PFZ94CpTYd5FJNm1?pi=u-NDftowcVRRSI&si=29ZFZ1vBQligDLVAf2ee6w&utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree&nd=1&dlsi=076d024ab3f44ed6
