We recently connected with MAMI POPO and have shared our conversation below.
MAMI, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
I keep my creativity alive by always remembering why I started to create in the first place. It’s easy to lose focus, but when I think on why I started or the things that inspired me before I initially began a creative journey it sparks something in me.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hello! I’m Mami Popo, and I am a Jamaican American DJ based in Atlanta. I’ve played at premier venues like Rock Steady, The Trap Music Museum, Cam Kirk Studios, and Our Bar ATL. I’m an open format DJ so I can play all genres of music, but my sound is rooted in Hip Hop, Afrobeat, House, and Dancehall.
As someone who grew up loving music and playing instruments I always had an appreciation for music. I think the most exciting thing about being a DJ is learning how to work a crowd, and the psychology behind it. It’s still something I’m still trying to master honestly.
Being a DJ in general is special because I get to create safe spaces for people and help them connect with others through music.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Passion: I think in order to become a DJ you have to really be passionate about it. It’s hard to get gigs and respect as a DJ so it’s important to genuinely like it. Then you won’t be too focused on the material aspects of the craft.
Grit: Being a DJ comes with so many lows. You can fail publicly, feel discouraged due to not getting opportunities, or encounter catty people in the industry. Just keep on pushing and remember why you started.
Community:I wouldn’t be where I am without the support of other DJs in the community. It’s important top find your tribe
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
I think I’ve allowed myself to just be in the moment. I can’t plan out every set… for the past five months I haven’t planned any of my sets. It’s important to just go with the flow and to not stress. Overanalyzing everything gets you nowhere.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @imthepopo
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/stephaniebryanpopo
Image Credits
Meecheyes
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