Conversations with DJ KING SZN

Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ KING SZN.

Hi DJ KING SZN, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
DJing started for me freshman year at Lawrence University (2016). I had relocated to the Midwest from NYC, and that first weekend after moving in, I played music off my iPhone for this big fraternity dorm party. I remember everyone having a pretty good time, singing along to songs, and it being just a little reminiscent of the parties that I went to back in NYC. That experience opened my eyes to the need for good music, good vibes, and a different party scene on campus. I’ve always had a love for music, I’ve admired DJs and the art form for a long time – so I decided to bet on myself take time to learn and develop my craft, and it in turn helped me tap into one of my greatest passions in life.

Since 2016, I’ve made it my goal to curate memorable, enjoyable party experiences using the universal language of music. In my earlier years, I spent my time not only DJing on campus but also in the local clubs/bars, traveling to neighboring colleges, and DJing community events in the area. After relocating back to NYC after graduating in 2020, I was able to develop the KING SZN brand even more to be able to go on to spin for world-renowned brands such as the NBA Foundation, Nike, and Chase. It’s truly been an amazing journey to see my brand grow year after year and to be able to work with major event organizers like Elevate Social, The R&B Party and Everyday People.

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?
While these past few years since the pandemic have been absolutely incredible, considering all the opportunities and events that I’ve been blessed to be a part of, it definitely hasn’t come without its challenges. One thing that I feel isn’t discussed a lot about entrepreneurship and the journey that it is to getting to where you want to be is the self-care (or lack thereof) aspect of it. In 2021, I had to step away from this radio show that I was a part of because I wasn’t taking the best care of myself with everything in life that I had going in. This resulted in me falling asleep at the wheel and getting into a car accident on my way to the radio show one afternoon. That was the wake-up call I needed to get an organizer, prioritize my rest (especially when I need it), and to not rush my process. It helped me reassure myself that all that I’m already doing in my hustle is enough and if it’s God’s will for me, it will be.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
One of the experiences I’ve had more recently that I’m most proud of was the opportunity to celebrate 50 years of Hip Hop Dance, Art, Fashion, and Music with Nike NYC x Hennessy US. The experience was filled with everything from a fireside chat about the history, evolution, and future of Hip Hop with the voice of NYC, Angie Martinez & the director of social and community impact at Nike, Alize Garcia to a Hip Hop eras DJ tribute that included the great DJ Stretch Armstrong, the phenomenal DJ RIA, and myself! It was truly an unforgettable and special night.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is my relationship with God. If that isn’t aligned and sustained in the way it needs to be – I feel uneasy and unbalanced. All of what I’ve been able to accomplish and be in service to is because of him. He’s kept me in the rooms and opportunities that I desired to be in and aligned with his will for my life. It truly is from him that I get my strength, ideas, creativity, and skill – so I try my best to nuture it and be a good steward over it all.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @djkingszn
• SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/djkingszn