Episode 010 - Desiree
Interview
Who is Desiree?
A DJ from New York who has a passion for, and loves connecting with people through, music and the cultures surrounding it.
When did you begin your journey to work in music?
I started drumming in elementary school and did that up until I was like 16. I was in a few bands my Freshman year of college and I was a DJ for my school’s radio station. I picked up mixing a few years ago and fell in love. I’ve been working on my skills as a DJ, my vision, and myself as well so I can see that work I did on my side reflected in the content I put out.
What are you currently working on?
Other than the mixes that I work on I’m constantly expanding my music library and organizing it. One of the greatest joys in life for me is discovering new music, so I’m always on SoundCloud, Youtube, Spotify, and social media just listening and searching.
Do you do anything else for work besides music?
I’m a full-time graduate student!
Who are your musical influences? (Old and New)
Definitely, the DJs and artists with Soulection, listening to their sets really pushed me to start learning how to mix. I love their concept of being genre-bending and borderless… there’s so much music out there and so many amazing artists behind it and they really showcase that in a beautiful way that has influenced so many, as well as my own mixes.
Who is a new artist you discovered recently that you want everyone to listen to?
Yazmine Lacey! Her voice is classic.
How do you find new music?
Listening to online radios, the curated radios and playlists of mixes, songs, and artists, suggestions from other people, social media, Shazam if I’m out at a store or wherever and hear something I like.
If you had to listen to one song on repeat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
What's your current DJ setup and why?
My USB holds all of the music, my laptop, and my Roland DJ 505. I use a Bose SoundLink as a speaker which works great for me right now. There’s no specific reasoning for this setup it’s just what I have currently!
What vibe are you going for with this mix?
Fun and energetic vibes.
What should your fans expect from you next?
Expect a lot more! I’ll be putting out DJ mixes consistently that will showcase a diverse selection of genres and artists.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists/DJs/Producers out there?
Have fun and create what resonates with YOU and what you want.