Conversations with DJ Skemaddox

Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ Skemaddox.

Hi DJ Skemaddox, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in memphis,TN and went to college in London. Once I graduated I lived in nashville for a year then moved to LA and have called this city my home for the last 22 years. I started throwing events with Anthem Magazine at Coachella and was able to see Daft Punk, A-Trak, Diplo, Rusko, Ed Banger and many others dj at our parties. I started getting into djing for friends house parties and slowly started getting club gigs. I have been a resident at some of the most iconic spots in LA. The Roosevelt, Ace, Skybar, Tao, The Dream Hotel, Level8, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang and was the music director at the SLS Beverly Hills where I curated the annual NYE and Halloween party for 5 years running. Additionally I have thrown hundreds of pool parties and events throughout the city. I still consult and work with a lot of hotels and venues and continue to DJ for fortune 500 companies traveling the world. Some standout moments are playing EDC and Tomorrowland. I also toured China extensively in the late 20 teens. I have been fortunate enough to DJ in australia, Balie, mexico, Canada, Cambodia. Spain, England, Bahamas and many other countries. I also produce house music and still create to this day. My next venture is involving consulting with some new properties in Los angeles, to build a space where events can thrive and cater to the new nightlife crowd.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Haha. nothing about working in entertainment is ever smooth. Always ups and downs. Venues close, managers and bookers move. A song you think is going to take off doesn’t. COVID. Now the biggest struggle is monetizing the newer generation of people going out who are faced with the economic struggles of the country and especially LA. Accompanied by the fact that people are drinking less. So focusing on experiential events and parties. Or just making sure you are providing the music that makes people move or at the very least, not want to leave.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I think it says alot that I have been a professional DJ for 15+ years. This is my job. But I wear a lot of hats. Collaborating with friends like Wicked Paradise, Spaceyacht and many others is an importatnt too to survival. No one can do this alone and it takes a lot of compromise and realizing that somethings you are gonna have L’s. Also being nice. This business has so much turnover that if you burn a bridge or are a dick to someone then odds are that person will be in a position in the future that could affect your career. It’s really about doing the work and being professional.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I think nightlife in general is at a turning point. The cost of tickets and festivals is getting out of control. Brands are less willing to partner because they are not seeing the ROI they used it. I think curating something that people want to go to and stay at is very important. Trying to look cool and be on the cutting edge has it’s place but making attendees feel welcomed cannot be overlooked. They are the lifeblood to any party. The community. People also want the next best thing. So it is about finding that or revitalizing a venue or spot that people might have forgotten about.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.skemaddox.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skemaddox/