Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ Calvin.
Hi DJ Calvin, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began in Nairobi, Kenya, where my passion for music was ignited. Growing up, I was exposed to a wide range of genres and exceptional music from a young age, which laid the foundation for my future endeavors as a DJ.
When I moved to the United States and enrolled at the University of Minnesota – Duluth, my interest in DJing and event organizing truly flourished. The college environment provided me with a platform to showcase my skills, and I was fortunate to receive overwhelming support from my friends and fellow students. They attended my monthly events, invited me to DJ their house parties, and even involved me in official UMD events. Their encouragement fueled my passion and propelled me forward.
Eventually, I made the move to the Twin Cities, where I had the opportunity to network with exceptional DJs who played a pivotal role in my journey. Interacting with these talented individuals opened doors for me and provided invaluable guidance as I honed my craft. Their mentorship and support helped shape me into the DJ I am today.
Looking back, I am humbled by the path I have walked and the opportunities that have come my way. From my early days in Nairobi to the thriving music scene in the United States, I have been fortunate to witness my passion for music transform into a fulfilling career. I remain dedicated to pushing boundaries, creating memorable experiences, and spreading joy through my art.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Embarking on my DJ journey for the past 8 years has undeniably been a challenging path, particularly as I wasn’t originally from the United States.
Overcoming the initial hurdles of gaining the trust and support of promoters and fellow DJs proved to be the most demanding aspect. However, I was fortunate enough to cross paths with influential figures in the nightlife scene at the time like DJ Banke and Shortlegg DJ among others, who not only took a chance on me but also provided valuable opportunities, a platform, and mentorship. Their belief in my talent and potential was instrumental in shaping my career.
Being an introvert, I faced an additional struggle in trying to build a fan base and establish connections within the industry. Engaging socially with strangers was outside my comfort zone. Yet, I discovered that my dedication to honing my craft and consistently delivering exceptional performances overshadowed any reservations I had about my limited social skills or network.
Throughout this journey, I’ve learned to embrace my strengths as a DJ and focus on what truly matters—creating memorable experiences through my music. By putting forth my best effort at every event, I managed to captivate audiences and forge connections that extended beyond mere conversation. While I may not be the most talkative or well-connected individual, my passion and commitment to my craft spoke volumes and resonated with people.
The challenges I’ve faced and the obstacles I’ve overcome have only fueled my determination to excel further. Moving forward, I will continue to prioritize my growth, connect with like-minded individuals, and leverage the power of both word-of-mouth and social media to expand my fan base and reach new heights in my DJ career.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
In the city, I have established a strong reputation as a curator and DJ specializing in Afro-Caribbean events and concerts. However, my expertise extends beyond that, as I actively engage in a diverse range of private events, weddings, and corporate gatherings. As an open format DJ, I have collaborated with numerous event promoters and organizers, consistently delivering memorable experiences across various event types pushing the afrobeat culture as well.
What truly fills me with pride is the remarkable growth of my DJ brand, which started from humble beginnings and has flourished into its current state. Particularly in recent years, my team and I have spearheaded an exciting weekly event called ” I.con Saturday’s at Hyde.” This unique experience offers attendees an unparalleled night out, where they can immerse themselves in a blend of genres and exceptional music. This distinctive approach sets our event apart from the typical weekly nightlife offerings, elevating the overall experience for everyone involved.
Furthermore, I am incredibly honored to have played a pivotal role in the development and success of the Afrobeat scene in Minneapolis. Standing among a collective of passionate individuals, I have been on the frontlines, actively contributing to the attainment of significant milestones. Today, we have the privilege of booking fantastic venues for concerts, events, and more, which is a testament to the thriving Afrobeat culture we have cultivated.
Overall, my journey as a DJ has been a testament to hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for music. It brings me immense joy to curate exceptional experiences and play a part in the vibrant cultural landscape of my city.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
In my relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth, I maintain a constant growth mindset in everything I do. I firmly believe that there is always something new to learn, and I actively seek out opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. To achieve this, I invest a significant amount of time observing and studying other DJs and event organizers. By closely watching their performances and approaches, I gain valuable insights and continuously refine my craft.
Networking is another integral aspect of my journey. I actively engage with seasoned professionals who have decades of experience in the industry. Their wisdom and advice provide invaluable guidance, helping me navigate the challenges and opportunities that come my way. By building strong connections within the DJ and event-organizing community, I cultivate a supportive network that fuels my growth.
To augment my learning process, I utilize various resources, with YouTube being a primary platform for self-education. I dedicate substantial time to exploring tutorials, interviews, and performances shared by fellow DJs and industry experts. This allows me to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, techniques, and innovations in the field.
Additionally, I seize every opportunity to attend events in different cities and states. By immersing myself in diverse environments, I gain fresh perspectives and uncover new approaches to elevate my work. This not only contributes to the improvement of the events I curate but also aids in building a brand.
Throughout my journey, I embrace the motto, “Watch the kid grow.” It encapsulates my unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and signifies my dedication to push boundaries, exceed expectations, and make a lasting impact in the DJ and event organizing scene.
Contact Info:
- Website:www.atlasmplsdjs.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/djcalvinmpls
- Youtube:www.youtube.com/djcalvinmpls
