Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ Mucho.
Thanks for sharing your story with us DJ Mucho. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I come from humble beginnings and a musically enriched family. I was a self-taught drummer from the age of seven. I used to watch Artiste/Bands like Black Uhuru, Dennis Brown, Lloyd Parks & We the people band, etc. When I started to find some rhythm I got formal training and started playing at church. While in church, I was able to progress. At 13, I started to play Drums for a Ska legend turned Gospel artiste Hopeton Lewis. Under his wing, I was able to learn the basics of the music business. I did countless shows and events with him all over the world until the age of 19. While on the road with him, I wore many hats drummer, Rodie/Assistant, Road manager, Dj, etc. During that time period is when I became inspired to transition to the next level. Since 2009, I’ve been a Dj/Selector. I started out Deejaying the traditional Caribbean way, “soundsystem” style. I spent a lot of time building my music library and working on improving my mixing before I actually went in front of a large crowd. I spent my weekends at the underground radio stations. I used to watch elder established Djs like Dj Starvibes, then actually ask questions. From there, I was able to build my own style based on my musical intelligence. I started out doing birthday and basement parties in Brooklyn, NY.
When I moved to Florida, I played my first real sound called Venom. After a few palm beach dates, we all started to pursue other things and we parted ways. After that, I played on Champion Squad for a brief moment then I joined Earthquake international. Most people would only remember my time on Earthquake. I played with that sound for nine years. While I was there, I worked to get a few regional & international bookings. I’ve played throughout the USA, Canada, Europe & the Caribbean. I had the privilege to play amongst some the greats Bass Odyssey, Stone Love & Renaissance, and other prominent DJs. I was able to work alongside Artistes like Mavado, Bounty killer & Konshens just to name a few. After nine years, I decided to embark on a solo journey. Since then, I’ve been doing an array of events and Festivals. I’ve been blessed to be able to work alongside Marcia Griffiths, The Marley Brothers, Bushman, Protoje, Chronixx and other prominent figures in the Reggae Industry.
Currently, I’m working with Curator/Dj Jason Panton building a new franchise called Word Sound Power. With the experience I gained, I started building with other emerging talent and started curating audio concepts that are strategically matched with relevant visuals. This opened the door to creative artistry and endless possibilities. Special thanks to my mother, grandparents & elders who have been a pillar of strength through my journey
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Art isn’t a respectable profession in my environment unless it’s lucrative or on track to become lucrative. Due to limited resources, I have to work hard to gain the traction I need/needed to continue to reach different levels in music. In the beginning, it was hard for some to actually take my art seriously. As my career began to look promising the laughs and whispers turned into stares. So, even though some try to pretend, you can see their more shocked seeing me do a lot with a little than being genuinely proud of me. Having to protect myself from people who claimed they love me, taught me the skills needed to deal with certain personalities in the music industry. Due to the advancement in technology, the internet eliminated the need for gatekeepers in the music industry. They used their positions as leverage to get the youths to complete their hidden agendas. Nowadays if your content is of a certain quality, some elders will start to feel threatened. They gained power from the leverage so they never had to show any respect to the youth. In order to continue that trend, some will attempt to initiate unnecessary competition to “Keep their space.” The preservation of the culture is of importance so the focus should be on guiding the youths instead of competing. I just learned to be aware so I can move in peace and grow.
Please tell us more about what you do, what set you apart from others?
I’m a Dj/creative artist. My sound developed as a result of being exposed to Soca, jungle, Drum & Bass Garage, etc. What sets my art apart from others is that I am able to use my traditional teaching and mix it with my diverse background to make my own unique sound of music.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I would definitely say good luck or energy has followed me through my professional and personal journey. I have done/do different things for different people and I won’t speak about it. It’s either you do/done it for them or yourself. Sometimes, the universe gives it right back and sometimes it takes a while. Everyone including myself has bad days or experiences. However, those moments dont measure my worth as a Dj/Creative or a person. If I continue to do what I can with the right intentions, I will be able to continue to be surrounded by positive and experiences.
Contact Info:
- Phone: Benji (305) 834-3077
- Email: muchoearthquake@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/iamdjmucho
- Facebook: m.facebook.com/IamDjmucho
Image Credit:
@Nkosiisart, @yawdyquan, @popphotography, @kheemo_sts, @_youngshot
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