DJ Stretch

Admired & Respected

When did you first get into music?

I started playing the guitar in the 80s and B-Boying in 1993, I started DJing in 1997, bought my first set of turntables in 1999.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My Father has always been my biggest musical inspiration. He put a guitar in my hands at age 5.

How have your skills evolved since you first started as a DJ?

I lost a lot of battles and won a few as well. I also feel blessed that I have been able to DJ in few countries and about 10 states. I am still a student by all means, but I am excited about the new skills I am learning.

As a club DJ, you are probably asked to add new music to your setlist all the time... Can you tell us what it takes to be included on YOUR setlist? What do you look for?

My setlist would be different for when and where I am at. I feel it is always very important to read the minds of the folks in front of you and play what they wanna hear.

I’m sure you have met a lot of celebrities/talented artists along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

It was a true honor when DJ Qbert wanted to practice with me at my house in 2007. I also am very grateful to have become great friends with Masta Fuol. He is as real as any artist I have met. I also enjoyed DJing for Juevenile a couple times.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

I love watching people enjoy life while I play and dance. My Father always told me, if I can entertain people I will always have a place to earn a living and make people happy.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a DJ in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

I am one of a kind..... I will always claim that I am the best and I am not done competing or working every single week.

What has been your biggest challenge as a DJ? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

My biggest challenge is myself and getting inside my own head.. I shake and shiver before and during battles. Once I overcome myself, I will be satisfied.

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

I have been to hell and back about a dozen times. I would prefer to not speak on this more.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

#1 Record,CD, even Tape sales........ don’t exist..... streams and downloads are the new way of music and a lot of that is done where the artists don’t make money, but at the same time nobody can argue Lil Pump, 69, Lil Yaughty and Lil Wayne aren’t hella paid and not giving back to the old school artists.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

I would like to see newer artists show love to the artists that paved the way for them.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why?

That’s a tough one but here’s a solid 5: Hendrix - Are you experienced, Beastie Boys - License to I’ll , Nas - Illmatic, Sublime - 40 OZ to freedom, and DJ Qbert - Wave Twisters

What projects are you currently working on... that you can talk about?

I am working on projects that inspire people to show love and respect to each other. I want to see everyone get along and stop shooting each other. I also want to hold people accountable and make everyone see how lucky we all are.

What’s next for you?

I am also preparing future battle routines and always working on new material.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music and follow your career?

Facebook: @djstretch303