We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dj Roots Queen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dj below.

Dj Roots Queen, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

It all started with a phone call from Fletcher Baats. DJ Clue had invited me to be on Desert Storm Radio, and I immediately said yes. At the time, I was deep into curating a roots and culture reggae mix called Rude Girl Rock. But with this new opportunity in front of me, I saw something bigger than just a mixtape. I saw a platform.

Radio had always been a force in music, but something was missing. An authentic space that could bridge underground and mainstream while giving artists, especially women, a true voice. I wasn’t just looking to play music. I wanted to set the tone, break records, and build a movement. So I took Rude Girl Rock and shifted the name to Rude Girl Radio, a name that embodied strength, culture, and rebellious energy.

At the time, hip hop radio was heavily gatekept, and unless you had major label backing, it was hard to get real visibility. Independent artists and producers weren’t getting the shine they deserved, and female DJs had to fight twice as hard to be taken seriously. I knew there was a demand for something fresh, something raw. A station that wasn’t afraid to take risks and push boundaries.

I had already built credibility in the industry, working with some of the biggest names in music. Artists trusted my ear, and listeners knew I delivered quality. But more than that, I understood culture, timing, and positioning. If we did this right, Rude Girl Radio could become a trusted tastemaker, a launchpad for artists, and a go to for music lovers craving authenticity.

This wasn’t just business, this was passion. I had spent years navigating a male dominated space, proving myself over and over. With Rude Girl Radio, I was creating a lane that didn’t exist yet, not just for me but for the artists and fans who felt overlooked. The excitement came from knowing I wasn’t just following trends, I was setting them.

And that’s how Rude Girl Radio was born, out of a mix, a moment, and a mission to change the game.

Dj, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m DJ Roots Queen, a DJ, music curator, and businesswoman deeply rooted in hip hop, reggae, drum and bass, and jungle culture. My journey into the music industry started with a love for sound and a natural ability to connect with people through music. Over the years, I’ve built a platform that not only showcases groundbreaking talent but also helps shape the careers of artists through strategic music promotion and branding.

I got into DJing because of my passion for music. I started spinning at events, where I developed a reputation for blending genres and curating dynamic, unforgettable sets. My big break came when I connected with Zaytoven, a legendary producer in Atlanta’s hip hop scene. I became his official DJ, and from there, I was deeply embedded in the culture, working with artists, curating mixtapes, and helping push records that would go on to define an era.

From DJing, I expanded into radio, branding, and artist development. I launched Rude Girl Radio, a platform that amplifies underground and mainstream artists while giving women in the industry more visibility. I’m also a co-founder at Muse and Motion, where I provide digital marketing, music strategy, and brand development services for artists, entrepreneurs, and businesses looking to make an impact.

I specialize in DJ services for club sets, private events, brand activations, and weddings. I also work in music promotion and artist development, helping independent artists break through the noise and reach the right audience. Through Rude Girl Radio, I showcase new music and highlight emerging talent, while my work in digital marketing and brand strategy helps artists and businesses craft their online presence, engage their audience, and monetize their brand. I also curate events that bring people together through experiences that blend music, culture, and business.

The biggest problem I solve is helping artists and brands get noticed in a crowded industry. Many independent artists struggle with visibility and strategy. They may have great music but lack the knowledge or resources to get their music in front of the right audience, market themselves effectively, and build long-term success. I help bridge that gap by using my industry knowledge, relationships, and marketing expertise to give them real opportunities and results.

What makes me different is my deep understanding of both the music and business sides of the industry. I’m not just a DJ. I’m a strategist, a connector, and a tastemaker. I know how to curate a vibe, break records, and create moments that last. Plus, I have a strong track record of working with major artists and brands while still keeping my ear to the streets and supporting up-and-coming talent.

I’ve also been able to navigate an industry that is male dominated and carve out a space that uplifts women, independent artists, and creative entrepreneurs. Whether it’s through Rude Girl Radio, Muse and Motion, or my DJ work, I’m always pushing culture forward in a way that’s authentic, innovative, and impactful.

One of my proudest moments was being honored at the Georgia State Capitol by Governor Brian Kemp, Senator Michael Rhett, and State Representative Rhonda Burnough for my contributions to music and the community. It was a moment that validated all the hard work I’ve put into building a platform that truly makes a difference.

Beyond that, I’m proud of the artists I’ve helped elevate, the events I’ve curated, and the movements I’ve been a part of. I love seeing independent artists thrive and knowing I played a role in their success.

Whether you’re an artist, a brand, or a fan of music, my mission is to elevate the culture and create spaces where talent can shine. If you’re looking for someone who knows the game, understands strategy, and genuinely cares about the music and the people behind it, I’m that person.

Rude Girl Radio is more than a show, Muse and Motion is more than a business, and my DJ work is more than just spinning records. It’s about curating beats, culture, and connection, and I’m just getting started.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building my audience on social media was not an overnight success. It was a process of consistency, strategy, and real connection. When I first started, I was focused on curating music, breaking records, and showcasing the culture, but I quickly realized that content creation and engagement were just as important as DJing itself.

At first, I leaned heavily into networking and collaborations. Being the official DJ for Zaytoven gave me access to major artists and industry figures, so I made sure to document everything from studio sessions to behind-the-scenes moments. Posting content that felt exclusive helped draw in an audience that was hungry for insider access.

I also focused on value driven content. Instead of just promoting myself, I used my platform to highlight new music, educate independent artists on industry moves, and share behind-the-scenes knowledge. This positioned me as more than just a DJ. I became a trusted source for artists, producers, and fans looking for authentic content.

Consistency was key. I made sure to post regularly and engage with my audience in real time. Whether it was responding to comments, going live, or reposting fans’ content, I made it a priority to build a real community, not just followers.

Another major factor in my growth was cross promotion. I expanded my audience by appearing on radio shows, podcasts, and collaborating with influencers and brands that aligned with my vision. Every time I tapped into a new network, I brought fresh eyes to my platform.

For anyone just starting to build their social media presence, my biggest advice is to know your niche. Figure out what makes you unique and lean into it. Whether it is music, business, or lifestyle, clarity in your brand makes it easier to attract the right audience. Provide value and do not just post about yourself. Share insights, tips, and content that benefits your audience. Engage and build community because social media is a two way street. Respond to comments, DM supporters, and make real connections. Be consistent because posting sporadically will not get you results. Create a content schedule and stick to it. Use video content because reels, TikToks, and YouTube Shorts get way more reach than static posts. Use them to showcase your personality, expertise, and craft. Leverage collaborations by partnering with other creators, brands, and influencers to tap into new audiences. Track what works and pay attention to your analytics. See what content performs best and do more of it.

Most importantly, stay authentic. People connect with real personalities, not just curated images. Keep evolving, keep experimenting, and keep showing up. Your audience will grow as long as you stay committed to your vision.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One of the biggest tests of my resilience came early in my career when I was navigating the male dominated music industry while trying to establish myself as a serious DJ. I had already put in the work, honing my skills and building relationships, but breaking through to the next level required more than talent. It required perseverance, confidence, and the ability to keep pushing forward even when doors were not opening as quickly as I had hoped.

At one point, I was booked to DJ a major event with some big names on the lineup. When I arrived, I could feel the skepticism in the room. Some of the other DJs and industry people were looking at me like I did not belong. Instead of letting it shake me, I focused on what I do best. When it was my time to go on, I shut it down. The energy shifted. The same people who had doubted me were now nodding their heads and giving me props. From that moment, I knew that I had to let my work speak louder than any doubt or bias I encountered.

Another pivotal moment was when I started Rude Girl Radio. I had built a name for myself as a DJ, but launching my own platform was a different challenge. There was no blueprint, no guarantee that people would tune in or take it seriously. But I knew the vision was strong, and I kept pushing. I learned everything I could about programming, marketing, and branding, and I stayed consistent even when the numbers were small at first. Now, Rude Girl Radio is a trusted platform that has amplified artists and music across the world.

Resilience is about betting on yourself, even when the odds seem stacked against you. It is about showing up, doing the work, and proving that you belong. Every challenge I have faced has only made me stronger and more determined to keep breaking barriers and elevating the culture.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Rudegirlradio.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/djrootsqueen
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/realdjrootsqueen

Image Credits

Onyana Rose Whitaker pic 1 and 2
L’Sonne for 3 and 4