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

Jordan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

It really started while I was working for another DJ company. I spent four years there, and over time, I realized I wanted to build something of my own. I had the talent, I had the drive—I just needed to figure out what that would actually look like. At first, it was just a collection of small ideas: what kind of gear I’d want if I had full control, what my dream setup would be. I started jotting down a wish list of equipment, and from there, things started to get real.

I began thinking more seriously about how I would market myself, especially to other vendors—since that’s where the majority of referrals come from. I brainstormed names for the company, researched how to form an LLC, learned about taxes, and started identifying who my ideal client would be. I knew that to be taken seriously, I had to be clear about my offerings, so I put together a solid package and pricing structure.

At the same time, I worked closely with a graphic designer to develop a brand that really felt like me. I made sure I had the capital lined up to invest in the right gear—quality sound and lighting was non-negotiable for me. But above all, I committed to the leap. I accepted the fact that failure was a possibility—and once I did, it stopped scaring me. That freed me up to really go for it.

I also had to learn to sell—not just my DJ skills, but myself. People don’t just hire someone who can play music; they hire someone they trust to run the energy of an entire event. That part was just as important as the technical side. Looking back, every step felt big in the moment, but they all built on each other to make the launch possible.

Jordan, 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?

Music has always been a huge part of my life—almost like it was in my blood from the beginning. I was never much of a singer, and as a kid, I struggled with the discipline to really stick with an instrument. But I always had rhythm. I was the kid constantly tapping beats on desks in class or beatboxing with friends in the hallway. There was always a beat playing in my head—I just hadn’t found the right outlet for it yet.

That changed when I was 16 and got a job at a skating rink. It was there that I got my first taste of DJing—and I was hooked. I also discovered a love for being an MC. I learned how to speak clearly and confidently on the mic, and that experience helped me find what I now call my “DJ voice.”

In my senior year of high school, I got connected with a wedding DJ company in Tulsa and worked with them for about a year and a half. That’s where my microphone skills really took off. Back then we were still hauling around CDs, and while I wasn’t mixing much yet, I was soaking it all in. Life took me in a different direction for a while, but the passion never really left.

At 27, I met someone who was also interested in DJing weddings, and we tried starting a company together. It didn’t last, and I learned quickly that starting a business with a friend isn’t always the best idea. But through that experience, I got connected with another DJ who had a business of his own. We shared a strong work ethic and a similar mindset. I started working with him, using my own equipment, and over the next four years, my skills and confidence grew.

That time was crucial—not only did I get better at the craft of DJing, but I also grew as a person. I became more disciplined, more focused, and more determined to build something that was truly mine. That’s when Ignite the Night was born.

Today, I specialize in weddings, and my goal is always the same: to connect with each couple on a personal level. I want my clients to feel like I’m a part of the family by the time the night is over. I give each couple as much customization as possible when it comes to their playlist. I love getting oddball requests and finding creative ways to mix them in. Surprising my clients in small, meaningful ways throughout the night is one of my favorite parts of the job.

What sets me apart is the level of care and detail I bring to each event. I take time after every call to jot down notes, reflect on what each couple envisions, and make sure their experience is tailored to them. My service isn’t about perfection—it’s about being heartfelt, authentic, and true to the couple’s unique story.

That’s what I’m most proud of. I don’t just play music—I help create memories that last a lifetime.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I’ve never had a lot of money, and I didn’t grow up with much either. Like a lot of people, I grew up knowing what it meant to struggle financially. But as I got older, I worked hard to get to a more stable place. When I made the decision to start my own business, I knew it would take a real financial investment—especially to get the quality equipment I wanted.

I didn’t have savings sitting around, but I did have some equity in my home. It was a risk, but I believed in what I was building. I used that equity to invest in the gear I needed to launch my company the right way. It wasn’t a decision I took lightly, but it came from a place of confidence. I knew I had the drive and work ethic to make it count.

Thankfully, that investment paid off—I was able to make back double what I spent within the first year. It was a big leap, but it taught me that betting on yourself is one of the most powerful moves you can make.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think it comes down to a few key things. First and foremost, I genuinely love what I do, and I take a lot of pride in my work. That passion shows up in every event I’m part of. Whether I’m behind the booth or on the mic, I’m fully invested in giving people a night they’ll remember.

I make it a point to really connect with my clients and understand their vision—not just what songs they want played, but the kind of atmosphere they want to create. That kind of connection builds trust, and when people feel heard and cared for, they tell others about the experience.

I’ve also put a lot of energy into building solid relationships with vendors. I believe in collaboration and community over competition. When you treat other professionals with respect and work as a team, it creates a better experience for everyone—especially the couple.

Consistency has been huge too. Showing up on time, being prepared, delivering every single time—that’s how you build a solid reputation. And in this industry, things don’t always go as planned. I’ve learned how to stay cool under pressure, be flexible, and roll with whatever the day brings. That calm confidence makes a big difference when tensions are high.

And lastly, learning to be myself—fully and confidently—has helped more than I expected. People can tell when you’re being real. When you show up as your authentic self, it creates a space where others feel comfortable too. That’s what makes the experience memorable—and that’s what keeps the reputation strong.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.IgniteTheNightTulsa.com
• Instagram: Ignite_The_Night_Ent
• Facebook: Ignite The Night
• Other: TikTok – DJ Ryan Spinolds

Image Credits

Hannah Taylor Photography
Riann Hassell Photography