Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ Mohogany.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always loved music. Growing up my father played music often particularly on weekends which I believe cultivated my interest in exploring various genres of music and becoming an avid listener. I have always heard music quite differently as well. The harmonies, melodies, vocals, and beats of the song were more pronounced for me compared to some of my friends. Often times I would rave about what I would hear to my friends and they would be lost.
My love for music continued to grow throughout high school and in college where I spent more time listening to it. One of my roommates in college was DJ and it was my first time meeting a female DJ. As I saw her practice and play I thought about the idea of exploring DJing but with the many pressures of academics and post-graduation plans I never explored it… until I moved to NYC.
I landed in NYC to pursue my Master’s degree and while in grad school the idea of DJing came up again. I told my cousin, “Yo, I think I want to learn how to DJ” and she supported me fully and encouraged me. To be honest that is really how my journey began. I downloaded Virtual DJ, which is a software I think most DJs starting out use, and played around with it. I made my first mix and I was so excited…hearing it now though I cringe. After I graduated from grad school and was making money I started investing in equipment. I bought a small controller, a new laptop and a speaker. It started to feel real to me because I was actually learning how to DJ, telling people about my journey, and putting myself out there.
During the time I was exploring DJing and trying to figure out if I wanted to do it I was experiencing a period of growth and renewal. That period gave me the desire to connect with my African culture and meet people which was a stepping stone for where I am today. Through the relationships I established, I received mentorship which allowed me to learn more about my craft and enhance my skills. Those relationships also connected me to opportunities I am forever grateful for.
Great, 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?
This journey has been very testing and emotional. Initially it was not easy learning something new in the midst of balancing a career and my personal life. I had to figure out how to work my 9 to 5, take care of myself, and practice my craft. As a DJ you have to be your own manager, promoter, and content producer while practicing and going to gigs. It can be stressful but I have a great support system now that is allowing me to just focus on my craft. I also had to invest my own money into equipment in the midst of having my own expenses outside of DJing.
Practicing and growing as a DJ has been the hardest. There are days when I want to quit and wonder why I am doing this but when I have successful sets and people give me positive feedback it recharges my battery to keep going. Being a woman in this space is not easy either. There is a perception that female DJs are not talented or they are only in this space because of how they look. As I am growing as a DJ I am trying to dispel that perception and notion.
There is also a lot of politics around DJing which can be overwhelming when it can potentially impact opportunities. However, I have learned it is so important to be transparent, aware, and humble in this space. The struggles I have encountered thus far have helped me grow in the past year and I know will help me as I continue through my journey.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am a DJ but the genre of music I specialize in playing is Afrobeats. I am so proud to be African and find so much joy in playing African music. Afrobeats, while mature on the continent and UK, is new to the mainstream audience in the States. New York has really been a hub for the culture as we are fostering it, cultivating it, and helping it to grow. Currently, I am known in the NY as being one of few women who are pushing the culture through music and it really is an honor.
Growing up, I felt disconnected from my culture due to my parents’ push for assimilation and growing up in predominately white spaces. There was also a huge stigma that existed around Africans so to be able to be apart of a movement that is bringing awareness around our culture through music is socially transformative and simply amazing.
I have played for fashion designers, Afrobeats artists, music festivals, and African curated events. These opportunities include the NYC Pride Parade, Afrochella in Ghana, the Jollof Festival, New York Fashion Week and Summerstage in Central Park with Blinky Bill, Efya, and Mr. Eazi. Currently, I am trying to brand myself by diversifying my portfolio. I appreciate the current scene as it exists in NYC but I see myself pushing the culture beyond clubs and lounges. I do not only want to share my culture through DJing but through various platforms and spaces that we do not have a presence in currently. Currently, I am also trying to brand myself to be free in my individuality and more personable. Although in this industry you have to be mindful of how open you are and what you project about yourself, I want people to see more of who I really am.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up as a kid I was rambunctious, energetic, and inquisitive. I was quite silly and playful which got me into much trouble at home and school. I was a tomboy; I loved playing outside and following sports. I was interested in music as much as I am now and I loved watching TV. The irony is now I barely watch anything and I cannot watch anything without falling asleep #adulthood. I had a deep love for running at the age of 12 that I have grown to love even more as an adult. I was a bit shy and socially awkward when placed in social settings but for the most part I enjoyed socializing with my peers.
I was heavily insecure and lacked self-confidence. I went to predominately white school district so my skin, my shape, my hair, and facial features were something I did not find beauty in. Attending Howard University after high school made me appreciate all of that though and I thank God for that! I definitely think younger me would appreciate the woman I became today.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @djmohogany
Image Credit:
Kevin Imongirie, @kevinimongirie on Instagram
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