DJ MJ
From Birmingham, UK, DJ MJ is stated to currently be the only active female underground house & garage DJ in the midlands. She has played guest mixes for Flight FM, PogoHouse, The Essential Beat 1 Show and London House FM to name a few. Her tastes range from oldschool UK garage to soulful, afro & deep house and more. NICE ’n' EAZY caught up with DJ MJ to talk about music…
Tell us about the first house/garage tune you heard.
I was 8 years old when I heard my first House tune (1988). It was Royal House (aka Todd Terry) - ‘Can You Party’ … still an absolutely Iconic House track.
What made you decide to start DJing?
I come from a very musical family, my brothers both DJ, produce music and MC and my dad was a DJ for 45 years.. he still dabbles every now and again (once a DJ always a DJ)! My mom is a die hard Northern Souler.
Music is in my blood and DJing/music was introduced to me from as young as I can remember. I taught myself really with a little help from my dad. I remember using my dads turntables to practice on for hours on a weekend. He would let me use his collection of old records to practice.
Name your top 5 old skool labels?
Smack Productions, Nice n Ripe, Tamla Motown, Strictly Rhythm and King Street. It’s hard to pick a favourite and this list I have given is not an exhaustive one.
Out of all of these (if I really had to), I would have to choose Tamla Motown. I was raised on Motown and Northern Soul. The memories I have attached to this music is priceless.
What has been the biggest highlight of your DJ career so far?
As corny as it may sound, just getting to meet all the people involved in the House and Garage scene.
I've met some fantastic people along the way and have the support I never thought I would. I've played alongside DJs, producers and MC's that I used to listen to as a kid, remember dancing to as a raver and knew all the lyrics to the MC's bars.
I count my blessings everyday that I am given the opportunity to meet, party with, make solid relationships with and DJ alongside all these amazing, pioneering and down to earth people in the Industry that have helped me, given me advice and given me their friendship.
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