We were lucky to catch up with DJ OMINAYA recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi DJ OMINAYA, thanks for joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

Success isn’t just based on talent. While talent is a part of the magic you have to be very intentional to ensure you are putting yourself in the best position to succeed. Above all you have to be committed to your dream and with commitment comes consistency. Every individual who has achieved a level of greatness has had to put countless hours of practice and preparation into honing their craft. This is a step that can’t be missed. Additionally, it is a must that you continue to adapt regardless of what you have already achieved. The world will continue to change and those that can evolve with trends, technology and culture are the ones who will lead the pack. Lastly, you have to enjoy the journey along the way. The small victories will keep you going!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Growing up in the heart of South Bronx I was exposed to music at a very early age. I started DJing at 14 and I was influenced by people like DJ Enuff, Kid Capri, and Brucie B. My start was a very humble one as I couldn’t afford the type of equipment I wanted, and I played house parties for little or no money. But I stuck to it and started to gain momentum, secured bigger bookings and got my name out there. Years later I was able to leave my job at H&M and became a DJ full time. From there I had to work even harder, but I saw things starting to come together. I started securing guest spots on SiriusXM, HOT 97 and became the DJ for The Wendy Williams Show. In 2017 I DJ’d for A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and we instantly clicked. Since then, I have been his official DJ. This has afforded me the opportunity to play some of the world’s most iconic venues and perform at large festivals. Even though I have several years in this industry I feel like I am just getting warmed up!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2020 the pandemic shut the entire world down thus I was not able to perform at any venues. It was a very rough period for everyone thus I took it upon myself to spin music live online. Not only did this provide a sense joy and distraction for my followers, it also better connected me with my fanbase. The online parties immediately took off and I branded each day with a specific theme (“Thankful Tuesdays”, “Throwback Thursdays”, etc.) so my fans knew they could expect variety each session. This not only kept me visible but inspired me to launch my merch line. In 2022 I was nominated for “Best Morning Show” award on Twitch.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me the most rewarding aspect of being a DJ is the crowd reaction. Seeing people get excited to the music I play and my work on the microphone is a feeling that can’t be explained. I just came back from the Canadian leg of Me Vs Myself tour with A Boogie and every night was insane. The energy from the crowd was incredible. I truly love what I do!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://good-job-orlando.square.site/
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/djominaya
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeeJayOminaya
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlando-minaya-642042171/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/djominaya
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/dj-ominaya-new-york

Image Credits
@DJOMINAYA