Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Karyofyllis.
Hi Katrina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Katrina Karyofyllis, but the world knows me as DJ Katrella. Picture this: fresh out of high school in Ottawa, Canada, I found myself bartending by day and spinning beats by night. My best friend graciously let me use the club to practice my DJ skills. Those late nights were my training ground, my sanctuary. I lived and breathed nightlife, dedicating every moment to learning the art of DJing. Then came the turning point. Jump 106.9 FM, a radio station owned by Corus Entertainment, in Canada, offered me a thrilling opportunity. Every Saturday night, I hosted a 5-hour live mix-show, introducing my city, Ottawa to my sound. The city embraced me, and I felt the impact of their support. But deep down, I knew I was destined for more.
Miami—the city of neon lights, sunshine, and endless possibilities—called out to me. I left my hometown with two suitcases and a heart full of determination, as I boarded that plane. No detailed plan, just an unwavering resolve to “go figure it out.” And Miami welcomed me with open arms. As my music climbed the charts and I crisscrossed the globe for shows, I realized it wasn’t just about the beats. It was about the journey—the highs, the lows, and the magic of connecting with a crowd. In 2016 and 2017, I proudly claimed the title of Top DJ in Ottawa, a testament to the love my city showered upon me. And yes, Chevrolet Canada even endorsed me, handing me the keys to a car year after year.
But it was September 2017 that changed everything. As summer faded in Canada, I felt the magnetic pull of Miami’s house music scene. I navigated the work visa maze, and within weeks, I was granted an artist visa. Miami became my canvas, my muse and a place I now call my home. And radio? Well, it was my launchpad. Working with Revolution 93.5 FM helped me get my name out to the local audience here. We still work together to this day and I appreciate all of the opportunities that people in my life and life itself has presented to me. My mixes reached a massive audience, propelling me to where I stand today—a DJ who knows the beat, the rhythm, and the soul of the dance floor.
So here I am, Katrina Karyofyllis, aka DJ Katrella, making Miami my home. The music flows, the crowd sways, and the journey continues—one electrifying track at a time.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has been anything but smooth; it’s been an extraordinary rollercoaster of intense emotions, thrilling highs, and profound lows. It’s been like the craziest rollercoaster you can imagine. My life’s been anything but ordinary, and definitely not easy, but man, it’s been one heck of a ride with some pretty rewarding experiences and cherished memories.
So, where do I start? I’ve worn a bunch of hats—performing DJ, music producer, event planner—you name it. I’ve encountered such a wide variety of different people along the way, so many talented artists but I’ve also seen the dark side of the industry. There are people out there who’ve tried to rip me off, mess with my work, undermine me, and manipulate me to do their work for them and just straight-up sabotage me. The transition from Canada to Miami marked one of my life’s pivotal chapters. Young and unguarded, I was a prime target for deception and exploitation. The industry, while brimming with opportunity, others I’ve met are those who preyed on naivety and success. I’ve weathered a storm of adversity—manipulation, betrayal, and relentless attempts to derail my career by those envious of my achievements. Yet, each time I was knocked down, I rose with renewed determination. I refused to grant bad people the satisfaction of seeing me falter.
Through it all, I’ve perfected my skills across various facets of my craft. Despite the attempts of many to capitalize on my expertise, I’ve learned to navigate through the dark side of the industry. The key, I’ve discovered, is to remain vigilant against the ‘vampires’ lurking in the shadows and to stay true to what ignites my passion, and that is house music. I am blessed with having such an amazing family, who taught me the importance of morals, and being a good person at a very early age and I hold that very close to me. Nothing can change that about me, resilience is key.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
First and foremost, I am a music producer and a performing DJ. This is the core of my identity and the most vital aspect of my career. In addition to that, I have a diverse portfolio of experience in the music industry. I’ve managed nightclubs, organized large-scale events, handled administrative tasks, and delved into graphic design. I also run my own record label and music publishing company.
What sets me apart is not just my proficiency as a DJ and producer, but also my extensive knowledge across various facets of the business. My network is vast; over the years, I’ve forged connections with countless individuals, traveled extensively, and worked with major corporations in the industry. My educational background in marketing, coupled with practical experience from being on live radio in Canada, has given me a unique blend of skills.
Growing up in a family of self-employed entrepreneurs, I learned the business side of things early on. This upbringing instilled in me a fearless approach to my career, which, while it has led to some precarious situations, has always been a learning experience that I’ve managed to navigate successfully.
Support has been a cornerstone of my journey. I believe in the power of kindness and the importance of acknowledging those who have helped you along the way. I am grateful for everyone who has supported me from the start of my career. While I’ve had to make tough decisions to protect myself and part ways with certain individuals, I will never forget those who stood by me.
My fans and supporters are invaluable to me, as are the mentors who have guided me. Their belief in me has been a driving force, and I am deeply appreciative of each person who has played a role in my story.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Miami is an extraordinary city, and it captured my heart from my very first visit at 19. Its unique vibrancy and the boundless opportunities, especially within the music industry, are what drew me here. The music scene in Miami is unparalleled, and I knew that this was the place where I could truly thrive. The climate is just one of the many aspects I adore about Miami. It’s a melting pot of talent, brimming with creative individuals who inspire me daily.
Of course, no place is without its challenges. In Miami, I’ve learned the importance of vigilance, as not everyone you meet has your best interests at heart. Additionally, the laid-back pace can sometimes mean that things don’t move as quickly as I’d like, which can be a source of frustration.
Despite these hurdles, Miami has become my home. It’s a city like no other, and I wouldn’t choose anywhere else to lay down roots. My journey here has been one without regrets, filled with love for the city, it’s home for artists and the people who enjoy our music here, I love Miami and its people.
Contact Info:
- Website: katrellamusic.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/djkatrella
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djkatrella
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/katrella-k
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/djkatrella
- Youtube: https://music.youtube.com/channel/UC-VQLQAIRZQnbxmVZrHq5Zg?feature=share
- soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djkatrella
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1sPBuPnLazBm1gQjHlIBQV?si=oMexhM7nSESoBlOxhIQpKQ
Image Credits
@oh_snapss305 (the monochrome photo)
