We recently connected with Eric Akinnibosun and have shared our conversation below.
Eric, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I learned to DJ through a mix of hands-on experience, mentorship, and a lot of practice. Starting out, I spent countless hours experimenting with different equipment, learning how to mix tracks, and understanding the dynamics of reading a crowd. I also took time to study other DJs, whether by watching live performances or analyzing mixes online on Soundcloud. YouTube University was also great assistance.
Knowing what I know now, I could have sped up my learning process by taking formal lessons or attending DJ workshops to expedite my understanding, especially in the beginning. It took me some time to finally become comfortable to DJ out of the comfort of my bed room and out to the public.
The most essential skills for a DJ are a deep understanding of music and the ability to read a crowd. Knowing how to create a vibe and adjust the energy in the room is crucial. Good communication skills are also key, as they help you connect with clients and understand their vision for an event.
An obstacle that stood in my way was dealing with imposter syndrome. I was surrounded by so many great DJs coming out of college—like NiteCrawler, Labcity, Rocket, Guwop, Twalk, and Blast, just to name a few—that I didn’t think there would be room for me to start. But then I realized I didn’t want to look back 20 years from now and regret not exploring the idea of becoming a DJ.
Eric, 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?
My journey into the world of DJing began well into my adulthood, but as previously stated I’ve always been inspired by those that came before me. I dealt with imposter syndrome, wondering if there was even room for me in the industry. But deep down, I knew I didn’t want to look back years later and regret not exploring this passion. That’s what pushed me to dive in, learn, and develop my skills.
As DJ EA, I specialize in creating unforgettable experiences for a wide range of events, including corporate functions, weddings, proms, school dances, and private parties. My approach is all about making memories memorable for everyone involved. I believe that music has the power to shape moments, and I’m committed to ensuring that every event I’m part of leaves a lasting impression.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the feedback I receive from clients and guests. Hearing that the music was a highlight of their event or that a particular moment was made special because of a song I played is rewarding. It’s these moments that remind me why I’m passionate about what I do.
For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that my work is all about you. When you book DJ EA, you’re not just getting a DJ—you’re getting someone who is deeply invested in making your event the best it can be. My brand is built on passion, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. You can check out more of my work on Instagram at @Pleada5th (https://www.instagram.com/IPleada5th), and if you’re interested in booking, visit my website at eainthemix.wixsite.com/book-with-dj-ea.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a DJ is the ability to create unforgettable moments for people. There’s nothing like seeing a crowd come alive when the right song drops, or watching a couple share a special dance to a track that means something to them. It’s the energy, the connection, and the emotions that music can create, bringing people together in a way that few other things can. Knowing that I’ve played a part in making someone’s event memorable and special is great feeling. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, or a private party, being able to contribute to those moments and help create lasting memories is what makes being a DJ rewarding for me.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
I believe society can best support DJ’s by providing fair compensation: Ensure that DJs are fairly compensated for their work. This includes not just the hours spent performing, but also the time invested in preparing sets, purchasing music, and maintaining equipment. DJs often work behind the scenes to create seamless events, and that effort should be reflected in their pay.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://eainthemix.wixsite.com/book-with-dj-ea
- Instagram: @iPleada5th
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/eric-akinnibosun
