We were lucky to catch up with Kellie Berrios recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Kellie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Being a DJ, it was a difficult decision to quit having a “normal” job and go full force into my career. As I would try to balance both for many years, I realized I was lighting the candle at both ends which would of ultimately led me to burn out. It wasn’t until later in my career that I decided it was worth it and I was worthy to pursue it full time. Between my years of experience, countless hours of practice and preparation, extensive network and clientele accumulated, it was a no brainer to put all my faith in myself and my ability to succeed. An encouraging support system and my steadfast faith in God was also an important part of the transition. Being an entrepreneur comes with a lot of strategic planning, budgeting and sacrifices. I truly believe in God’s timing and plan so I wouldn’t change the process I went through in order to fully commit.

Kellie, 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 started my career in the Hospitality & Entertainment Industry in 2008. Beginning as a server, bartender and promo model, I started to learn the ins and outs of the business. Around 2012 I found myself in relationship with a DJ that led to 3 years learning and observing the work of a DJ and its community.

I’ve had a passion for music and radio since I was child so being able to learn from some of the top DJs in the tri-state area felt surreal. I ultimately became a stagehand on numerous events learning the craft from set up, main event, reading the crowd to break down. After the 3 years of practicing on a variety of set ups such as, Technique 1200s and Rane 57, Reloop RP 8000s and Rane 62 or the Reloop Mixon Controller all using the various versions of the DJ software Serato, I played my first bar gig in 2015.

With having an open format style, I have been able to conquered many events including private, weddings, corporate, bars & nightclubs. Whether opening new venues, holding residencies or hosting events, my passion for music and the craft of DJ’ing always shines through when I play.

I was lucky enough to be a NAMM artist with Reloop from 2016 – 2020 experiencing one of the largest music conventions in the country that included legendary talent and brands of the industry. While learning about the new hardware to be released, I was also able to curate and market content and tutorials on unreleased equipment.

My extended knowledge of the business led me to a AGM position with one of Philadelphia’s top hospitality groups in 2018 and 2019. Gaining rapport with clients, guests and venues, my positive energy, support and experience increased my continued success.

In 2021, I began my DJ career full time with no distractions which led me to DJ booths I’ve dreamed of playing in and being on line ups with DJs and Artists I’ve admired throughout my life. Currently in 2025, I hold steady collaborations with companies such as Blueprint Sound, Direct DJ Company, Silent Philly and Home Base. I have also been named one of Philly Current Magazines PC Picks for 2025.

With being a 10 year Philadelphia resident DJ, my brand is myself, Just Kellie. I pride on sharing and spreading positivity and love through each performance.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

There are many lessons I’ve had to learn through out this journey but the biggest one I had to unlearn was, “Everyone has your best interest at heart”.

While I was sacrificing my own career and helping others first, the favor from many was never returned. Like many industries, entertainment comes with a lot of greed, envy and ego. I had to learn how to be “selfish” in a way and continue to put my brand and career before others. This doesn’t mean I completely stopped helping others but it is where I started to be selective on who I kept in my circle of business.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being a DJ is watching people just have a good time through the music I’m playing and how I am playing it. Just knowing I am the reason for the happiness they are experiencing in that moment is priceless and fulfilling. It’s like a subliminal co-sign that all the hard work, late nights and sacrifices aren’t going unnoticed.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kellieberrios
• Facebook: Kellie Berrios
• Linkedin: Kellie Berrios

Image Credits

Benjamin Rivkin & Joe Broscoe.