We recently connected with Kentree Davis and have shared our conversation below.

Kentree, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today f you needed to find a key partner or facility – how did you find them, what was the process of striking a deal like and what would you do differently knowing what you know now?

My key partner, and person that has made the most difference in my endeavors, is my mentor. I was able to find this key partnership by good, old-fashioned networking. Relationships are still the most essential element to the success of any business and finding a mentor was validating and has proven to be very beneficial. Initially, I was hesitant to branch out, fearing rejection, but I now understand that networking and branching out should be done strategically, but as often and as soon as possible.

When I first decided to become a DJ, I knew the fastest way to learn the ropes was to associate with those at the top of their game. I attended a networking brunch which eventually led to me being booked at a club. While at the club, I was able to witness another DJ perform. The performance was unlike anything I’d ever heard from a DJ. I knew, instantly, that I needed to make a connection with this person and learn all that I could. The connection wasn’t instantaneous, but I was persistent. Couple my persistence with his willingness to pass along knowledge, and eventually the relationship evolved into one that is invaluable.

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

My name is Kentree Davis but everyone knows me as “Tree”. I am a Dallas-area club and special event DJ. While I was a student at Prairie View A&M University, I was exposed to a lot of DJs and was able to witness their ability to keep everyone entertained. With my love of music and entertaining others, it should have been a no-brainer. I wouldn’t actually take the leap into DJing for another 15 years.

Randomly, I volunteered to play music for a family member’s party. Using my laptop, and a makeshift speaker setup, I was able to get the party going. That night was unforgettable. The reactions and feedback from the party-goers was exhilarating. I went out the next day and purchased some DJ equipment.

For some time, I only played for family and close friends. After a year or so, I felt like I was ready to DJ professionally. I started to DJ weddings and other special events. Eventually, I found that I wasn’t able to play the style of music that I liked most and approximately two years ago, I made the move t0 become a club DJ. I still accept private clients, but I’m very selective and ensure that my clients know what to expect when they book my services.

Being a club DJ has put me in the unique position to provide a more intense party atmosphere for my clients. The private events I DJ are not your typical mind-numbing affairs. My goal is to leave every guest feeling ten years younger. Unique transitions and combinations of songs ensure that I’m not the average DJ.

DJing clubs is not for the faint of heart. Club-goers go out to have a good time. Drinks, food, and other things are crucial, but the music is the most essential part of the club experience. Hundreds of patrons are depending on you to make their night unforgettable. You can see, hear, and most importantly, feel when you’re doing it right. Conversely, when you don’t do so well, it could be the end of your career. Recently, I was presented with the opportunity to DJ at one of the biggest nightclubs in Dallas. The night was one of the most memorable nights of my DJ career. There is no better feeling than success, and this night was no different.

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 club DJs are in their early 20s to early 30s. I’m 37. I have a beautiful wife, an adorable child, and a full-time career. I did’t even start DJing until after my daughter was born. My journey doesn’t look like others. Initially, I struggled with that fact. I felt out of place, unwanted, and nearly stopped pursuing my passion. This is why relationships, particularly mentors, are so important. I was able to talk through some of my feelings and how to overcome them. In addition to talking, my mentors encouraged me to get out and network more. After taking their advice, I found that no two DJs have the same story. Everyone has an origin, a struggle, and something that makes them unique. Not only are unique stories common, they often contribute to a DJs distinctive sound. My age and inexperience is no longer a weakness, but an asset.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

“YouTube can teach you anything.” That’s true….Most of the time. I’m proud to say that I’m a self-taught DJ. I learned a lot from YouTube and talking to other DJs. I’d soaked up so much knowledge that I was convinced that I was ready to play in front of crowds. I asked my Mother if I could DJ her birthday party and she excitedly agreed. The party started and I quickly realized I was not ready. YouTube couldn’t teach me how to read a crowd, how to play the right song at the right time, and, most importantly, YouTube couldn’t give me real-world experience.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tree.the.dj/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IamTreeTheDJ

Image Credits
DJ Does It All EYECatching Photography