At first glance, you would think Niena Drake is a model — her beauty is a statement. What you may or may not be aware of is that she is one of the most prolific, talented and respected DJs in the industry. She is also an Emmy Award-winning TV producer and writer. She has worked with the likes of Nike and the FLOTUS, Michelle Obama. We spoke to Drake about her life as a DJ and what music means to her.
How did you pick your DJ name?
It’s my real name. Most people don’t believe me, but it is my real name. Some people call me Drizzy.
Please describe your style of deejaying.
I am an open-format DJ. Everything from jazz, soul, dance, house, hip-hop and beyond I can play any genre of music for any room.
What is your favorite genre of music to play?
Old-school hip-hop and R&B.
As a Dj what do you bring to the tables that no one else can bring
I live and breathe music. Everyone doesn’t respect and play from the soul like I do. I don’t just bring the music – I bring a genuinely undeniable energy, love and understanding that translates and resonates through every venue I play. I’m also the only Emmy Award-Winning DJ I know.
What three skills are critical for any professional DJ?
- Passion and love for music.
- Understanding of music.
- The genuine desire to share the gift of music with the world — regardless of whether you are the center of attention or not. Because it’s always about the music first.
What do you feel was your first big break in the DJ field?
I started deejaying at 13 years old doing house parties on the east coast. That’s where I learned how to read a crowd but still educate & enlighten them. On a professional level becoming a Nike DJ changed my life.
How do you incorporate new technology into your sets?
I include new sounds and production techniques in my performances. I am a student for life and continue to learn more every day about how technology is evolving my profession.
What are your feelings with respect to celebrity deejays
There are a lot of new “DJ’s.” Technology has allowed the masses to have access to equipment that allows people to believe they can be a DJ. But just because you can play one song after another does not make you a DJ. There is so much time, research, practice and understanding that goes into being a real DJ. The DJs I respect (celebrity or not) are those that come from a place of genuine respect for the craft and desire to share the gift of music with the world. Unfortunately, a lot of the new “DJs” do it for the fame – not for the love. If you are doing it for the fame, it shows and you are not a DJ to me. Music is a gift and it is a privilege to be a DJ. Everyone does not deserve nor warrant that title.
Finish the sentences
Practice is important because … it shows you respect the craft.
The best way to move a crowd is … understand music and know how to stay in tune with the crowd.
That odd track that I throw on to catch the crowd off guard is … when I play anything non-mainstream. I listen to every type of music. So, I could put on just about anything to surprise my crowd.
What social media platforms do you use to engage your audience the most?
I use everything but Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Periscope, Facebook are my main ones. I like to be accessible to my fans.
What are your residencies/signature events?
I’ve deejayed for some of the world’s biggest brands, charities, and celebrities, such as NIKE, Jordan Brand, Rolls-Royce, Starbucks, McDonald’s, Vogue, TED.com, the LVMH Group, Chicago Bears, The First Lady Michelle Obama, Chris Rock, Kevin Hart and much more.
If you had to give advise to a new DJ, what would the three most important things be?
Ask yourself, why are you really doing this? Why do you want to be a DJ?
Learn as much as you can about music.
Learn as much as you can about the technicalities of being a DJ.
What are two of your favorite albums to listen to when you’re not in the booth?
It varies depending on my mood and what is happening in my life.
Name three DJs who have inspired you.
DJ Jazzy Jeff
DJ Q-bert
Young Guru
A-Trak
DJ Premier
I can’t just name three, and there are so many dope producers that inspire me too.
Name a track that gets you motivated.
B.J. The Chicago Kid “Dream II” (Turn The Lights Up)
Kanye “All Falls Down,” “Last Call” and “I Wonder”
Anything Jay Z or Biggie
