Meet DJ DYOPS

We were lucky to catch up with DJ DYOPS recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi DJ DYOPS, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
In 2017 I lost everything I owned – my house, car, all of my belongings to fires that ripped through Santa Rosa. I had just started really getting my DJ career off and running. When I had to flee my house, the only thing I grabbed was my DJ gear because it was right by the front door from a gig the night prior. Sadly, I had to abandon my car and everything in it and run for my life along with my family.

I had to start my life over again with nothing but the clothes I was wearing. The outpouring of community support gave me faith that I could persevere and rebuild.

Knowing that I made it through this very challenging time gives me resilience to handle difficult situations. I have an inner strength now that has given me the confidence to grown my DJ career like never before.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I was inspired to become a DJ after getting involved in the music festival scene years ago. I wanted to create the same magical feeling I experienced while dancing to DJ sets at festivals and shows. Growing up immersed in punk music as a roadie in high school, music has always been my refuge.

With an eclectic taste in music, my sound is a melting pot of infectious rhythms and irresistible melodies. From hip hop to house, Afrobeats to underground bangers – you name it, I’ve got it covered. I seamlessly blend genres, taking listeners on a sonic journey that keeps you guessing and craving more. My sets are all about getting the dancefloor moving!

As a resident DJ at Vintage Space, I have the privilege of creating unforgettable experiences for the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community with my monthly dance party, LUSH. It’s not just about playing music; it’s about creating an inclusive space where everyone can let loose, express themselves, and come together to celebrate our love for music and each other.

Having performed at renowned festivals and venues throughout California, I feel I have an innate understanding of what makes people move and groove. I curate sets that are tailored specifically for each event, ensuring an unforgettable night filled with euphoria and pure musical bliss. Whether it’s a packed club or an outdoor stage under starry skies, I know how to work my magic and turn any event into a celebration.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I think most importantly having a passion for music is key! I listen to music every day and am constantly digging for new music to add to my diverse collection.

I take a lot of pride in what I do and spend a lot of time practicing, researching, collaborating and really trying to hone in on my skills.

I not only DJ, but I curate experiences. I pay attention to what the audience is going to experience when they come to one of my shows. Everything from lighting to decor to track selection to the people I collaborate with. Everything is done with intention.

My advice for people who are just getting started in DJing is to go to lots of shows, listen to lots of recorded DJ sets, try out different genres. Discover what you really like to play and make it your own. Don’t compare yourself to other DJs because people want to listen to you because you’re different and unique. You have your own story to tell through music.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?
As a DJ in the LGBTQIA+ community, I’m always looking for other DJs in the community to bring on as guest DJs for my monthly event LUSH. I’m in the North Bay (Sonoma County) and have had to look to the San Francisco Bay Area for talent. I book DJs, burlesque dancers, drag queens, go-go dancers, vendors, etc. and would love to find more local people to collaborate with. I’m a huge proponent of community and collaboration and believe that we can all come together to lift each other up through music and dance.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Headshot by Sarah Deragon

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