Afros in tha City

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#SHEDJ OF THE WEEK WITH DJ KOOKUM

Are you ready to discover the next rising star in the music world? Look no further than our exclusive SHEDJ of the Week Weekly Feature! Each week, we handpick an incredible talent from the world of underground and independent music and showcase their exceptional skills, unique style, and captivating sounds.

What can you expect from SHEDJ of the Week? Prepare to be blown away by the electrifying beats, soul-stirring melodies, and boundary-pushing creativity that these emerging SHEDJs bring to the table.

Whether you're a dedicated music enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves uncovering fresh, innovative sounds, our weekly feature promises to deliver a captivating audio experience like no other. Join us in celebrating diversity, originality, and the raw passion that fuels the underground music scene. Ready to embark on a sonic adventure unlike any other?

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SHEDJS: WHAT INITIALLY SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR DJING, AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE MUSIC SCENE?

Honestly, a part of it was the rave scene back in my day that sparked my passion for DJing. 

I was really into house and techno and I used to go to after hours to dance all the time. 

I thought how cool it would be to be the DJ in the booth instead of in a packed crowd. I always loved music though. I was that kid recording songs from the radio onto cassette tapes for my walkman. I was that teenager ripping songs from napster to burn CDs for my friends. And now I am that DJ that loves bringing the community together to dance and have a good time. 

When I was learning how to DJ I would volunteer to gain more experience and get my name out there. I networked and paid attention to the scene that I wanted to get into. Eventually I was a part of the community and started to get more opportunities. When I started DJing there weren't many first nations female DJs and everyone was hyped on what I was doing. Now it's my full time job. 

SHEDJS: CAN YOU SHARE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FROM ONE OF YOUR PERFORMANCES OR EVENTS THAT STANDS OUT IN YOUR MIND?

What stands out the most for me right now is the impact I’ve had on others. In cities I have never been to before, I've had people come up to me after the show to tell me how much I inspire them. And just knowing that what I am doing has an impact on others is amazing. It inspires me to keep going.

SHEDJS: HOW DO YOU APPROACH CREATING A SETLIST OR CHOOSING TRACKS FOR A PARTICULAR EVENT OR VENUE?

When I am creating a setlist I usually go through all my music and playlists and pick songs that I am really feeling, that get me hyped up and that are suitable for the type of event or venue. I also search for new music and make any edits if I need to. Then I practice the set, move songs around and figure out what will blend good together. Then I record it, listen to it and practice again. 

SHEDJS: ARE THERE SPECIFIC GENRES OR ARTISTS THAT HAVE HAD A SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCE ON YOUR STYLE?

I would say hip hop and house music have had a big influence on my style. I’ve always loved both genres and when you combine hip hop with some heavy bass edm you get music that you can listen to and dance to. 

SHEDJS: IN A CONSTANTLY EVOLVING INDUSTRY, HOW DO YOU STAY UPDATED ON NEW MUSIC TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGIES?

I am subscribed to websites and DJ pools. And follow other DJ’s and gear companies on social media. I watch videos on DJ gear that comes out. Also talking with DJ friends, one of them always has a new technique or gadget to share. But believe it or not,  I am still rocking the first gen CDJ2000’s I bought in 2010 when I first started to learn how to DJ and they still work great lol.

SHEDJS: DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR ASPIRING DJS LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE SCENE OR ENHANCE THEIR SKILLS?

My advice for aspiring DJs is to stay dedicated and consistent. The more you practice the faster you become more skilled. It's always good to practice and learn new techniques. And try to be consistent with releasing content like DJ mixes. Also don’t be afraid of taking risks or making mistakes. 

SHEDJS: WHAT'S NEXT FOR YOU IN TERMS OF PROJECTS, COLLABORATIONS, OR UPCOMING GIGS?

June we are celebrating National Indigenous peoples month. I am excited to DJ at the launch of a new Indigenous owned soda called Heartberry Soda happening June 2.

Ācimonwin Film Festival is happening in Saskatoon June 5 to 8 showcasing Indigenous content. I will be DJing the opening and closing parties and attending some of the screenings. 

I DJ for a hip hop group called the Snotty Nose Rez Kids and this month we will be performing at The Indigenous Music Summit opening Gala in Toronto June 10th.  And were opening for Cypress Hill at FestiVoix de Trois-Rivières June 29.

For National Indigenous people days June 21st, I am going to be returning to my Denesuline homelands in Alberta to DJ at the day celebrations. Then I’ll be heading to North Country Fair for the weekend for another 2 DJ sets. I will be ending the month DJing at the Babes on Babes queer party at Fortune Sound Club in Vancouver June 30th. 

As for making music. I am going to be releasing a song that I produced featuring my cousin singer songwriter Amanda Gendron. It's going to be a summer jam. Can’t wait for everyone to hear it.