Today we’d like to introduce you to Waves
Waves, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up around music–playing guitar and piano, and started collecting vinyl in high school. One day while at my local record shop, the clerk who always helped me suggested I try my hand at DJing since I knew such a wide variety of genres. He ended up being my mentor and taught me how to DJ with vinyl. I got very lucky and landed a DJ residency at a Live Nation concert venue early on, and I’ve grown with them over 10 years. I DJ many types of gigs; bars, weddings, retail activations, but live music after-parties are my favourite since they were my first love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s definitely been a challenging path. When the pandemic hit, I thought I’d never work again since the music industry was the first to go (and last to bounce back). But that time opened my eyes to the fact that I really didn’t want to be doing anything else. It actually prompted me to start making bolder choices such as getting a US visa so I could travel more with my music.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m definitely not your average DJ. I haven’t produced anything (yet) and explored that artistry side. I’ve kinda just found what works and leaned hard into it. I’m now known for specializing in VIP events and concert parties. I’m constantly digging for new music both online and at record shops, and I think that nerdiness has paid off because I’m able to really keep an open mind when it comes to curating music for each gig. I try to not pay too much attention to what others are doing so that I can keep my sound unique. The best compliment I can get is when someone says they didn’t know a single song I played, but that they loved my set. That’s always a good indication that I’m on the right path.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important thing I’ve learned over the last twelve years is that there’s always enough work to go around. Community and connection is everything, and while it’s easy for people to gate-keep gigs/work from others, it’s always the most rewarding when you get into a scene that is open to sharing. Sharing ideas, passing along work, recommending people and resources, having honest discussions about business practices-especially as a female in the music industry. We shouldn’t think that we’re in competition with each other-a rising tide raises all boats!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.djwaves.ca
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dj.waves/
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djwavesla
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/user/f85rmuc7nynakz899ilh0l6ka?si=ab3e77c5e88947c3
