Straight Official Magazine Archives - Page 8 of 46

“Behind the Decks”: A Closer Look at the Life of a DJ

on November 9, 2023 Goja's Bodega add comment

In the world of music the DJ stands as a cultural curator, a master of beats and a maestro of the dance floor. Behind the decks, they wield the power to shape the energy of a room. Seamlessly blending tracks to create a sonic journey for their audience. But who are these mysterious figures that bring the party to life? Let’s dive into the life of a DJ and explore the artistry, passion, and dedication that drive them.

At the heart of a DJ’s skill set lies the art of mixing. With headphones and a mixer, DJs use their keen sense of timing and knowledge of their music collection to create seamless transitions. This ability to weave together disparate elements into a cohesive, flowing set is what sets a skilled DJ apart.

The Other Side of Being a DJ

Contrary to popular belief, the life of a DJ extends far beyond the glamorous moments on stage. Hours of meticulous preparation go into curating the perfect set-list, considering the audience, venue, and atmosphere. DJs spend countless hours crate digging, discovering hidden gems and staying abreast of the latest musical trends. All to keep their performances fresh and dynamic.

In the digital age, technology has revolutionized the art of DJing. While vinyl records and turntables remain a classic choice, many DJs have embraced digital platforms, using software and controllers to manipulate and remix tracks in real-time. This technological evolution has not only expanded the creative possibilities but has also democratized access to the art of DJing, allowing aspiring artists to explore and experiment with their craft.

A DJ is not merely a selector of songs but also a perceptive reader of the crowd. The ability to gauge the energy of the room and adjust the music accordingly is a finely honed skill. A skilled DJ can seamlessly shift from mellow tunes to high-energy beats, ensuring that the dance floor remains a vibrant and dynamic space.

What The DJ Life is All About

The world of DJing is incredibly diverse, with practitioners exploring a wide array of styles and genres. From the thumping bass-lines of electronic dance music (EDM) to the soulful grooves of hip-hop, DJs are often defined by the genres they embrace. This diversity allows for a rich tapestry of musical experiences, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Beyond the technical aspects, DJing is a form of artistic expression. DJs bring their unique personality and style to their sets, creating a signature sound that becomes synonymous with their name. The best DJs are not just music enthusiasts; they are true artists, painting with sound and eliciting emotional responses from their audience.

The DJ’s role in the world of music is not just to play songs but to craft an experience, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of those who dance to their beats.
DJGojabean

Meeting the DJ goes beyond the surface of the person behind the decks; it’s an exploration of a multifaceted artist who is part technician, part curator, and part showman. The DJ’s role in the world of music is not just to play songs but to craft an experience, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of those who dance to their beats. So, the next time you find yourself lost in the music on the dance floor, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and dedication that the DJ brings to the party.

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The Quest Chronicles: Scotchie Boss

on November 8, 2023 Artist The Quest Chronicles add comment

The Quest Chronicles: Scotchie Boss Recently I chopped it up with recording artist Scotchie Boss. Next big star on the rise. Check out our interview

DJ Kay Slay’s ‘Rolling 200 Deep’ Unleashed

on November 7, 2023 Entertainment Goat Vibez Interviews Music add comment

In a fitting tribute, DJ Kay Slay is being honored with the release of the most extensive posse cut in hip-hop history "Rolling 200 Deep,"

Journalist Bae | City Girl Era Over?

on October 27, 2023 Journalist Bae add comment

Apparently, even City Girls don't want to be City Girls anymore and they aren't the only ones... RAW Review After a good 5 year run,

The Unique Experience: Unique Speaks

on October 20, 2023 Health & Wellness add comment

Ladies :Let's Not Give Up On Ourselves It may be taking you a little longer to get where you're going , but we do not

Jarvis Thompson speaks with DJ Pressure

on October 17, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Introducing JL Thompson

Jarvis (JL) Thompson grew up in Laurel, MS. He considers Laurel his city roots and Bassfield, MS his country influence since it’s his father’s birth town. The artist is the oldest of two sisters and has no brothers a part of his bloodline but surrounds himself with several bonds that are just as strong as if they were. He is a lovely father to his son and a supportive husband to his pregnant wife, USM alumnae, Brandy Thompson.

Church Roots

JL started singing at church where his father is pastor. The congregation has always been supportive of the artist and his music, but his first major appearance was actually at his preschool gradation. Jarvis’ mother and father are his number one supporters. While being known for his outgoing personality, he takes his place in the community as an artist and truck driver. He graduated from Laurel High School, attended Jones Community College, and is currently a senior at Williams Care pursuing healthcare. Along the way he gained an electrical certification since being an artist was not originally a thought. It just began to grow on him and his family. Thompson is also known for his piano and organ skills.

Kamron is JL’s five year old son and is very vocal about the sound of his father’s music. This is held in high regard by Jarvis due to difference in finances after the birth of his son. From struggling to provide a “Happy Meal” for his toddler to becoming a truck driver or “Mr. Big Truck Driva”. Jarvis ultimately put God first and trusted his plan for his life. The artist went through a faze of consecration with God. The intent – finding out who he was and his purpose in life. Once it became clear, Jarvis continued to pursue his calling as an artist.

JL Thompson As An Artist

Johnny Taylor, Bobby Blue Bland, and Little Milton are all major influences because of his father’s choice of music. JL Thompson would appear on Facebook singing to gain viewers from time to time. What once came across as a joke about being a blues singer, is now his reality. He continued to move forward in the Southern Soul community. Writing his first song “Gold Digger”, which was based off a conversation with his brother who had concerns about dating a woman who always wanted him to pay for her things. A woman who had expensive taste but also a cheater.

While attending the “Jackson Music Awards” for the first time, I had the opportunity to meet several artist like Castro Colman, Stan Dixon, JWonn, Jeter Jones, and many others.

JL Thompson believes praying daily with his team provides a level of strength which open doors no man can close in personal life and career. It’s important to do this because of his involvement with different people and spirits. His second song was “Hey, Mr. Truck Driva”. This song was based off a lady at the truck stop offering service to please the truck driver and wasn’t too aesthetically pleasing. This song was based off a true story. The lady charges 40.00 to provide a service but once done she’s on to the next truck driver. JL Thompson’s third song “Big Truck Driva”, encourages others to date a truck driver. This song was created to give appreciation to male and female truck drivers. He sings about having a supportive wife who takes rides on the road with him and don’t mind pleasing her husband on the road.

JL Thompson’s “Greenwood Whiskey”

JL Thompson is not only an artist but a smart businessman. His next song “Take A Shot” is based off of his new whiskey. The song speaks about working all week and finally being able to relax at his favorite spot. Once there, he would ask the bartender to pour him up a shot of his favorite whiskey. Greenwood Whiskey was created from a tasting in Colombia with his cofounder. He is the first Southern Soul artist with a major liquor brand behind his name. He promotes his partners’ whiskey at all his shows.

Thompson also has a trucking company “T3 Express” which is managed by his wife. JL Thompson is hoping for nomination in 2024 at the JMA’s. He’s performed at the “Denim and Diamonds” event in Columbia, MS. He has performed next to artist like Lamarus Williams, Chris Ivy, Big Yayo, LJ Echols, Jeter Jones, Willie Cayton, Ken Wolf, Dru Evens, Bobby Rush and so many more. He even sang background with Stacy Adams and had a chance to perform at Calvin Richardson showcase. which was a spontaneous decision by Calvin. His goal is to be able to work with King George and LJ Echols one day. Jarvis L Thompson is just looking to grow and continue to support his family while putting God first.