About me: From his early years as an underground DJ on Chicago’s South Side to his bold presence in Hollywood’s upscale hangouts and new found success in New York City’s top venues, DJ Journey has earned his reputation as one of the most versatile DJ’s of his time.
Since stepping into the music realm in Chicago’s house scene nearly a decade ago, DJ Journey has moved forward and never looked back. Grabbing gigs for free at a young age put Journey on the map and before he knew it, he was booked back to back and working all corners of the city. His eagerness to be a part of the music community and appreciation for various genres of music gave this DJ an edge over others. That edge was versatility.
“I wanted to work in music so bad from a young age that I was happy to listen to anything I could get my hands on, whether it was Rock and Roll or R&B”.
That desire led to Journey’s extensive record collection and eventually his wide range of DJ gigs. He would find himself playing at a house club, like Prop House, one night, then on the other side of the city playing for hip-hip crowds at Subterranean the next. The opportunity to play different types of music from one night to the next eventually allowed for DJ Journey’s signature style to be recognized throughout the city. The DJ was known to carefully blend in hip-hop songs at a house venue, or vice versa, while continuing to keep the crowd happy. The DJ gigs branched off into spots on the airwaves like Sirius Satellite radio’s “Channel 42, The Wax”, where he was the only Chicagoan DJ on the show. Consistent club venues combined with top radio opportunities caused Journey to question his place in the music industry, eventually leading him to depart the Windy city with Hollywood in mind.
Western soil proved to be a friend of DJ Journey’s. After figuring out how Tinsel Town operated, the turntablist found his way in the music business, but not before spending some time on another creative front. The DJ who was constantly on the grind in Chicago now found himself taking on “extra” work in films to make cash and stay active in the entertainment world. What started out as a call back here and there led to reoccurring small roles on premiere TV shows like CSI New York, and photo double work on blockbuster films like Bobby. Movies like Flags of Our Fathers, You Me and Dupree and Dreamgirls helped Journey receive what all actors hope to attain: Screen Actors Guild membership. However, music never strayed from Journey’s mind and as he settled into a Los Angeles lifestyle, the music opportunities soon followed. While in LA, Journey compiled an impressive resume, opening up for music legends like Slum Village, ?uest Love, The Killers and Wyclef, and spinning with the likes of Pete Rock, DJ Premiere and Mc Lyte. Journey most recently spent time performing on Busta Rhythm's California tour and did the same with Disney signed artist Jesse Hart. Journey is a favorite request when it comes to Hollywood parties, and has provided music entertainment at various events for MTV, The X-Games and Red Bull. He has held residencies at spots like The Standard and world famous Vanguard where he worked the 80s/electro room every Saturday night for nearly a year . He was a choice DJ for many events at celebrity hangouts such as Goa, One Sunset and the ever –selective Xenii “Private Society” parties. Yet it was not uncommon to see him starting the stage for electro and old school hip-hop acts at the gritty downtown club Crash Mansion. He found himself a frequent guest on Spinderella’s Radio Show “Back Spin” and hosted a spot on a popular Internet radio show, Swank Society, based out of Chicago. Here he attracted fans from across the globe and continued to play music for all types of listeners. His refusal to pigeon-hole himself as a specific type of DJ as well as his desire to work at various types of venues continues to illustrate his boundless artistry.
With the success in Los Angeles came the question of “what‘s next?” After taking a business trip to New York to perform at a fashion event, Journey felt the time was right to enter the biggest music scene worldwide…. Manhattan. To date, the Midwestern spinster with an eclectic style has hit the 1's and 2’s at some of New York’s top spots including High Line Ballroom, Butter, Greenhouse, Tavern on the Green and Taj. He was also the DJ for Keyshia Cole's recent album release party in this city. Although the New York crowd can be a little hard on newcomers, DJ Journey has gained a loyal fan base in the big apple and club-goers everywhere are recognizing his distinct style and out-of-the-box thinking.
“New Yorkers love to dance, and they love to dance to hip-hop but if you give them a little something different and it works, then they will hit the dance floor and stay there. I’ve managed to bring in my love for electronic and rock music into a club that caters to R&B and Hip Hop crowds, yet make it work well”.
DJ Journey says he feels that a combination of both East and West coast markets strengthens his skills.
“The more crowds I play for, the more I learn, and more I can expand on my eclectic style."
When Journey isn’t hitting the turntables he can be found in the studio and creating remixes for artists like Steph Jones. He also spends time composing, and is currently scoring two independent films in Chicago, set to premiere at film festivals next year.
Although Journey's main focus has always been music, the vegetarian of twelve years considers himself quite green and often donates his time to DJing at charities that benefit the environment. He has done events for Lexus Hybrid, It Magazine and spun at New York’s only eco-friendly club, Greenhouse. He also has a blog dedicated to all things Green and Entertainment related. Up next, DJ Journey will provide the music for several Green Drinks NYC events. Green Drinks NYC is one of the largest green social networking organizations, bringing like minded people, interested in environmental issues, together on a monthly basis.
Journey's name and work are recognized amongst elite players in the DJ world. His focus includes expanding his production work, collaborating with more creative artists and gaining global visibility. DJ Journey now resides in both Manhattan and Los Angeles along with spending time on the road and performing across the globe.
Hey baby :P long time...I'm so bad @ replying and shit lol :/ but miss all the good times @Spider and Avalon lol long time well glad to see you doing well! Mwahhh
hey, sorry if i hit you up earlier, but HAPPY HUMP DAY!! I'm performing tomorrow night at the PALMS IN WEST HOLLYWOOD! take care, best wishes - classic
ay YO it ya boi STREET aKa KALI SUN just dropin in 2 say thanx 4 support and keep in touch... cheek out da new tracks n look for me at club near you... peace.
wow..that's amazing hunni! And good luck..don't be nervous..i know it's hard to be nervous but try not to be ok!...lol Also, let me know how that goes when you come back ok..and you goot this in the bag..just focus..don't get discouraged and let haters get to you! Much Much love and support to you sugar!! Keep you head up, and go out there and give you best performance! I give you a 10...lol
Awww thanks sweetie..for the comment..I love your new photos..really all of them.. I'm going show you some love also! I also love the profile,and your music is still that fire..love it!! Also, enjot the rest of your weekend hun..and KIT ok! muah xoxox Ms. Angel
Hey,just dropping off some love! Still trying to get as many people to check out my music, pics, and videos to get on the Monster Ball Tour with LADY GAGA, KID CUDI, and SEMI WEAPONS!! ALSO PERFORMING AT THE AIRLINER NEXT WEEK, DEC. 4th IN LOS ANGELES!
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