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

DJ , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you wish you had started sooner?

I always think about this question. When you’re in the entertainment industry, everyone has their own opinions about when someone should stop or slow down their craft because they’re “too old” or because another generation is stepping on the scene. To be honest, I used to regret that I didn’t start DJing and producing in my high school years because I felt that I would be in a very different position now.

I started DJing and producing in my late college years, so as soon as I graduated, I started working in the Chicago scene. I also had a 9-5 that I had to report to everyday. Having another job made things difficult – especially after a long night of DJing or being in the studio. All I wanted to do is work for myself.

I just started brainstorming ways I could make my mark on the scene. That’s when I started my other business, Juice Room (Chicago-based media platform) and Simmy Shades (my very own sunglasses business). As my businesses started to grow, I realized that I was right where I needed to be. I had a lot on my plate and I would often think about if I started sooner. I wouldn’t have been ready to take on as many responsibilities that young.

Sometimes you have to understand that your path is your path! I started my career right when I needed to and it’s going to go just the way it’s supposed to!

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

I am DJ SIMMY! I am a female producer, DJ, and entrepreneur from the southside of Chicago. My journey began in 2016 when I discovered my interest in music production. In 2018, I took it to the next level when my love for music led me to become a DJ.

In 2019, I landed on the line-up for the hottest festival in the midwest, Summer Smash (presented by Lyrical Lemonade), headlined by Juice Wrld & Playboi Carti. Around that time, I also became a guest DJ for Chicago’s Power 92 radio station and made a special guest appearance on New York’s Sway in the Morning show.

Over the last few years, I’ve shared my talents at retail establishments (such as Wilson, Foot Locker, Akira, Nike, etc), festivals, launch parties, corporate events, bars/clubs, and online events. I also enjoy creating viral, DJ Tik-Tok videos.

On the producer side, I’ve produced for Chicago artists, such as Kilt Karter, Carla G, KingPin Rue, and the lists goes on. I take pride in being one of the few female producers to come from my city!

In addition to the music, my other businesses include Simmy Shades (sunglasses line est. 2021) and Juice Room (a media outlet that curates events and interviews artists, based in Chicago est. 2019).

The key to success is being fearless and having discipline. I feel like that’s what sets me apart from others! You have to know what you want to get what you want! The main thing that I am proud of in my career is reaching my goals in short periods of time. Earlier this year, I made a list of brands that I wanted to work with. Both Nike and Foot Locker were on that list. I’ve now been booked for 4 events within the two brands. That’s just an example of how manifestation works! The next goal I’m manifesting is working more with music artists and hitting bigger stages.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media takes time! When I mean time, I mean planning out what you want to post and what you want your audience to see. I’ve actually been checking myself on what I want to post (business vs. personal).

I used to post just business – so my gigs, my DJ sets, my production, etc. But now, I’m realizing that the more I show just a little of my personal and relatable content, the more people enjoy my social media. I’m very private, so it can be hard, but I start my week of by planning my business content. Then, throughout the week, I show the fun side of me if I choose to.

The key is to not think so hard. Don’t look at anyone else and what they’re doing either. Just stay consistent!

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Most definitely! It’s very easy for people to judge a creative’s lifestyle where you work 24/7 and may not have a lot of downtime. I have a few non-creative friends and family members that I’ve bumped heads with because I wasn’t giving them enough time (which I regret, but it’s all about planning better).

But, being a creative is a job every second of the day. There will also be days where creatives feel like no one cares about their journey, or the journey is slow.

For non-creatives – support your creative friends and family members! It may not look like they’re doing much right now, but it only takes one move that could positively change their career forever. Support goes a long way!

Contact Info:

• Website: simmyshades.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/djsimmy_
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCApk1os1zTqSIxHISQB0KRg

Image Credits
@tosinkillz @renacaptures @_teemediaa