Turntables & Truth — D Mona Jay On Spin Talk

Some DJs chase trends. Others chase perfection. D Mona Jay listens.

In a city powered by sound and spectacle, D Mona Jay moves with intention. From her early beginnings at WRVS 89.9 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, to carving out her own lane in Las Vegas, her journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a deep respect for the craft of DJing.

What started in 1995 as a connection to college radio evolved into something much deeper. Over the years, she has blended old-school energy, reggae, Afrobeats, and nostalgia into a sound that feels intentional and refined. Her sets are not random playlists. They are curated experiences built on ear, timing, and discipline.

Beyond the music, her story carries personal chapters that shaped her approach to both life and performance. From teaching her husband how to DJ during the height of quarantine to navigating new beginnings in Las Vegas, D Mona Jay continues to evolve while staying rooted in her foundation.

In this conversation, she speaks candidly about her beginnings, her milestones, the challenges she has faced, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

Every career has a defining moment. For D Mona Jay, that moment started early, and she remembers it clearly.

Beginnings and Inspiration

What is your name, and when did DJing become more than just a hobby?
My name is Chiara Johnson, also known as D Mona Jay. I started DJing in 1995 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. I was trained at ECSU as a radio personality at WRVS 89.9. That’s when DJing became more than just a hobby for me.

What inspired you to become a DJ?
My love for music inspired me. I played three instruments and was in band from age 12 to 22. I didn’t see a long-term future in that path, but I still wanted to remain connected to music. After graduating, I continued DJing at the radio station just to stay part of it.

Build your skills and trust your ears.
D Mona Jay

Sound and Style

How would you describe your DJ style and sound?
I would describe my style as radio DJ energy with an old-school foundation. My sound leans toward nostalgia, reggae, and Afrobeats. I love making people reminisce through music.

I fell in love with reggae and Afrobeats because of my husband. He opened a reggae club that was successful until quarantine. During that time, I taught him how to DJ. The club eventually transitioned to new owners, and that chapter ended. We later moved to Las Vegas, and shortly after, he passed away.

What separates you from other DJs in Las Vegas?
My ear for music. I’m a perfectionist, and I don’t like it when something doesn’t sound right. I critique myself constantly and always look for ways to improve.

Approach and Performance

Are you more of a crowd reader, or do you plan your sets in advance?
I used to rely more on reading the crowd when my vision was stronger. I’m legally blind in my right eye, so now I plan my sets in advance. However, I’ll still adjust if the moment calls for it.

What’s one record that always moves the crowd?
Any current line dance record will move the crowd. I can’t name just one song, but if I’m playing line dance music, it always gets people engaged.

Have you ever had to recover from a technical issue during a live set?
Yes. One time in a club, my computer wouldn’t load songs onto the deck. I got on the mic, apologized, and explained the issue. I had to restart my laptop. Once it rebooted, I jumped right back into the set. On the inside, I was panicking.

My sound leans toward nostalgia, reggae, and Afrobeats. I love making people reminisce through music.
D Mona Jay

Career Milestones and Industry Insight

What has been your biggest career milestone?
Receiving DJ of the Year in 1998 for my show “The Hip Hop Connection” at WRVS 89.9 was a major milestone for me.

How do you stay current with new music and trends?
I stay current by listening to different streaming platforms and paying attention to what’s being released. Some newer music can be hard to connect with, but I still make the effort to stay aware.

What advice would you give to new DJs entering the industry?
Build your skills and trust your ears. Many DJs rely heavily on technology, but people want to hear good music. As DJs, it’s our job to blend and transition smoothly so the music feels continuous.

How important is branding and image in today’s DJ culture?
Branding is very important. It helps build recognition and a following. Once your name is out there, people start requesting you for events. In entertainment, maintaining a strong image keeps the bookings coming.

Equipment and Specialization

Are you a controller DJ or a turntable purist? What’s your setup?
I’m a controller DJ. As a radio DJ, I learned how to use turntables, CDs, digital systems, and even 8-track machines. I taught myself how to use a controller.

My setup includes a Numark Mix Pro III, my MacBook, purple headphones, Gemini speakers, and a subwoofer. I also have a mini party mixer that I use at home.

What type of events do you specialize in?
I specialize in radio, but I’ve also worked in clubs and at pop-up events.

Legacy and What’s Next

What legacy do you hope to leave in the DJ community?
I want people to say D Mona Jay was a great DJ with style, grace, and charisma. She was a mother, a teacher, a DJ, and an artist.

What upcoming events should people look out for?
I’ll be hosting Paint N Party Remix at the DJ Museum in Las Vegas on March 7 at 1 PM PST. It’s a paint-and-sip experience centered around DJ culture, music, and art.

How can fans, artists, and promoters contact you?
You can contact me by calling 702-900-2350

Email [email protected]

Facebook; Chiara R Johnson

Instagram: DMonaJay

TikTok: d.mona.jay

Snapchat: cramonaj

Website: www.divazpaintnparty.org