Step into the life of California’s native DJ INFERNO! HipHop Over Everything sits down with DJ INFERNO for an exclusive one-on-one interview
Tell us a little about your music...
I am a DJ from Hesperia, California, mostly in the Hip-Hop/R&B scene. I started djing when I was 12 years old and have been djing ever since. I started off DJing family parties and then started do house parties, private events, and eventually concerts. Currently I DJ for my school Willamette University and I am also a DJ for the Salem Capitals, a professional basketball team in Salem, Oregon.
What city do you represent?
Hesperia, California
How has being where you are from influenced your music and career? Being from my city has influenced my music and career immensely. Growing up, all I listened to was old school LA Hip-Hop from artists such as Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre. Being around the west coast scene has definitely influence my song and even my mixing.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
I mostly create mixes around Hip-Hop and R&B. Recently I have started to emerge into the Latin scene as well.
What is your creative process like before and during the studio?
Usually I have an idea before I go to the studio. I like to go into my mixing and studio sessions with a general idea. Then when I am in the studio I try and follow that idea, but sometimes I go the complete opposite direction or my original idea flows well.
How much music do you have available online for fans and new listeners like myself?
Currently I post all of my mixes on SoundCloud and MixCloud. I have over about 10 mixes ranging from 10 minutes long to over 1 hour long.
Who are some of your biggest influencers or favorite rappers in the music industry?
Currently my favorite rappers in the music industry include Blxst, Kalan Fr.Fr, Bino Rideaux, and BlueBucksClan.
If you could work with any artist or DJ in the world (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
If I could work with any DJ in the world it would be DJ mustard. Growing up I always would listen to his music and watch all of his shows online. Collabing with mustard would be a dream of mine.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
I would change the idea that those who are doing well don’t help those who are trying to come up. There’s is so much room for everyone in this industry, and I want more people to eat, and to do that everyone regardless of where they are in their career needs to start helping each other.
When it comes to branding and marketing your music, how do you distinguish yourself from another artist?
My brand is unique to who I am as a DJ. My logo is my Dj name, so when people see it they know who it is. My sound is also unique as I have my own DJ tags, also known as “Your Girlfriends Favorite DJ”
Do you feel the Internet/Social Media has impacted the music business for indie artists such as yourself?
Yes it definitely has. Tik Tok has been a huge platform that DJs and myself have utilized to expand our audience.
Which mix from your music catalog would you consider fans to listen to that represent you as a DJ?
My most streamed mix is my Party Bus Mix. This was one of the first mixes I ever created and is a prime example of my style and the music I play.
Tell us about your recent release and what inspired you to create such a masterpiece?
My most recent release is my “4 U” Mix. This is my first ever R&B mix and I was inspired to make it for my girlfriend. This mix is something that can be played for that special someone.
Do you have any future projects you are currently working on at the moment?
I am working on a few mixes currently but none of them have release dates.
Any plans on going on tour this year or in the near future?
Yes, in the near future forsure!!
Tell us something you love to do and admire besides being a musician and entertainer?
I am also getting my masters degree and play football. When I am not DJing, I am in my studies and perfecting my craft for football.
What’s next for you as a hip-hop and R & B DJ and entrepreneur in 2022 and beyond?
Just keep my head down and grind!
It was a honor to interview you and from the entire #HHOE staff, we wish you the best on your musical journey and career. Until next time!
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