We recently connected with Dj Mucho and have shared our conversation below.
Dj , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I taught myself how to play music by attending shows and watching the greats who paved the way before me. The only thing that could have helped me speed up my process would be paying attention to the small details. The two most essential skills would have to be timing and learning how to groove. The biggest obstacle was myself. Learning how to navigate in an extroverted industry as an introverted individual.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I got into the industry by being an intern. I would sell merchandise. At the age of 13, I was good enough to play drums in a backing band. I ended up playing for Mr. Hopeton Lewis, the man who sings the Jamaican National Anthem and a Rocksteady Legend in Jamaica for 10 years. I was teaching myself how to DJ on the side. After he stopped touring, I transitioned to mostly Deejaying. I started the traditional way in the Caribbean on a sound system. I played a few sounds, but I played a sound called Earthquake International Sound the longest. I was blessed with the opportunity to play numerous regional and international shows during my tenure. I learned the basics of mixing and an eclectic style of deejaying. Since 2017, I’ve been resident Dj at the world-famous Dubwise Miami Wynwood Miami at Coyo Taco in the art district. I’ve been blessed to be able to open for countless artists and perform at different Festivals around the world, including Reggae Sumfest, CaliRoots Fest, The Kaya Fest and The Marley Cup, just to name a few. I experienced life in a few places. Growing up, I learned a lot of different genres of music. That played a big role in the way I express my art. I learned the way I express my art is a glimpse of my personality but never make music about me. People come to have a good time and create memories and I feel honored to be able to be part of that. I appreciate everyone who has ever and or still continues to support me. I still play drums and do studio sessions from time to time. You can find an in-depth look into my story on my website, Djmuchomusic.com and Follow me on instagram @imdjmucho
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Pursuing music taught me how to be resilient in life. My personal faith differed from family and most of my friends. That created an uphill battle I had to face for people to take me and my work seriously. It taught me that I need resistance in some capacity to grow. I was put in a situation where I had to stand on my principles. I was taught to defend what’s right and not who i like. As a result I had to figure out how to withstand smear campaigns against my name and my character. That cost me relationships with people I’ve known for decades. I paid the price for standing on my principles and I am still willing to pay that price. The resistance taught me a few things, and it didn’t make me bitter. When someone doesn’t know the deal with you is based on what they are used to, it’s not a reflection of your worth, nor is it a testament to who you are, and it’s not personal. Some of the people who used to show me hate now show me love because they are able to see the vision. I don’t take it personally, and I love them anyway. Sometimes you have to give people the love they aren’t used too seeing or experiencing. That’s how you make a change.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Attending shows and watching the musicians. Watching hours of stage shows and concert performances. The Autobiography Of Haile Selassie I. The Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey, The 48 laws of Power.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://DjMuchomusic.com
- Instagram: Iamdjmucho
- Facebook: Iamdjmucho
