Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Gordon.
Hi Kayla, 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?
The journey to becoming a DJ started with my love for music, which was passed down by my older brother, Dexter Gordon. He would often create mix CDs of the latest music to share with friends. Around 2008, I began doing the same and took it a step further by connecting with DJs internationally through the internet.
I was a part of different DJ forums, which also doubled as online radio stations, sharing new music to DJs – imeem, MediazoneJA & Muzik Centralz by Johnny Wonder to name a few. I was intrigued by the DJs on rotation on the station and had all the music so I started practicing my hand at the craft. I saved my money and purchased my first piece of equipment, and the rest is truly history. I got the opportunity to begin playing on the online radio station of the forum I was servicing at the time, which gave me the connection to be heard by people across the world.
I began creating mixes and remixes and took a chance by sharing it with a well-known music and marketing company – Riddimstream. Riddimstream believed in the work and saw potential in my craft, adding me to their rotation of DJs to promote. This changed the trajectory of my career, connecting me to international acts and more.
Over the course of 15 years, I have won several DJ battles, traveled internationally, joined the world-renowned Shadyville DJs, participated in concerts, continued my radio career, gained magazine features, started a mentorship program, became an authenticated curator for Pandora and Audiomack Caribbean, curated my own events, executive produced records, topped charts and so much more. My journey is a testament to the power of consistency, perseverance, and most importantly God’s love.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road definitely has its ups and downs. There is no success without some form of obstacle or challenge that we have to push through. In life, generally, there will be good days and bad days but it’s about how you maneuver through it all. You have to have a firm foundation and be mentally strong to endure.
There were times where there were not a lot of people that understood the vision I had for myself. I had to believe in myself even when others did not. There are people that would try to undercut my worth, but I had to stay grounded in knowing what I have to offer and how much work it took to get to where I am. In this, I realized that all money is not good money and that my peace, self-respect, and sanity are just as valuable. Having this mindset allows me to attract clients that understand my worth.
Apart from this as a DJ, I get “writer’s block” where I want to create a project but I have hit a wall with my creativity. I often have to take a step back, reset, and get back into it. As technology evolves, I continuously have to find ways to stay on top of current trends while staying to true to what my brand stands for. Also with social media, there is a chance to feel like you are not doing enough. I always remember everyone is on their own path, as long as you are doing the best you can – you will win.
Lastly, navigating your village in music comes with its ups and downs, but is crucial in your growth. It is definitely true that you must believe people when they show you who they are the first time. It is important to lean on the people whose values align with yours. Support those who support you and love on those who love on you.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a well-rounded, open-format DJ with Afro-Caribbean influence. I work as an international corporate, wedding, club, concert/festival, private event, and radio DJ. Currently working in radio, I serve as a radio personality and audio producer. I also curate Afro-Caribbean playlists for Audiomack Caribbean and Pandora. Music production has been a new and exciting lane for me, releasing my first single this past Summer 2023. Additionally, I teach private DJ lessons for individuals looking to learn the craft and stand as a mentor for other DJs. Through being an entrepreneur, I have branched into brand marketing and strategy, photography, content creation, and more.
I am most known for my unique remixes and edits. DJs and others around the world have used my edits during sets to bring a surprise element to their performances. I believe my remixes and edits are what sets me apart from others. I truly take pride in bridging the gap between music genres through remixing. I am most proud of taking the chance on edits and remixes. I remember my first-ever remix, in 2009, received some backlash. However, my team at Riddimstream saw so much potential in the craft. They gave me the push to keep going and with practice, it has worked ever since.
I am appreciative of every aspect of my career allowing me to be versatile and well-rounded.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Several characteristics are important to my success. This includes passion, a desire to learn, and the willingness to serve.
My passion encourages me to persevere and be consistent because I am doing what I love. There are times where I may get tired but passion gives me the energy to show up for myself. In addition to being self-driven, I am persistent, pushing through obstacles to attain my goals and God’s will for my life.
There is always something new to learn. In my field, technology plays a major role. I have to constantly learn new methods, equipment, software, and more to keep up with current trends. I also look towards my mentor, who keeps me sharp in knowing what to do in various situations. I am grateful to have experienced people around me that keep me learning as I elevate in my career.
Continuing to walk in God’s will, I firmly believe that serving God involves serving others. Our purpose here is more than taking care of ourselves. We truly need each other, whether it be listening, caring or donating. While I may not be the whole solution, every part of the whole makes all of the difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.djkaylag.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/djkaylag
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/djkaylag
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/djkaylag
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/djkaylag1
- SoundCloud: www.soundcloud.com/djkaylag
Image Credits
Melissa Drouillard
