DJ Kayla G -Phenomenal DJ from New York
DJ Kaya G is a phenomenal DJ from New York. She came to talk about her career, favorite artists, music production, and more. Look out for more DJS interviews coming soon. Furthermore, We partnered with DJ Krunkmaster DJ to bring your original exclusive interviews.
What Type of DJ are you? Radio, Concert, Tour, Club, Wedding, Corporate and Mixtape.
Where are you from? I am from Brooklyn, New York. I am of Guyana descent.
HIP-HOP
How is the Hip-Hop Scene in Brooklyn? The Hip-hop scene is always in a good place in NYC. This year, we celebrated 50 years of Hip-Hop and the evolution of Hip-Hop.
It’s been great. There is also a lot of NEW talent making waves in NYC, continuing the legacy. I am proud of my city.
When did you discover Hip-Hop, and do you remember the first song you heard? I can’t remember the age.
Hip-hop was a genre played in my house by my older brother and cousin. I remember hearing Illmatic, Reasonable Doubt, The Blueprint, Get Rich or Die Trying, and more.
We are tastemakers in our respective territories, releasing Shadyville DJ’s branded mixtapes and merchandise to promote new music and emerging artists in their regions and events.
CAREER
Why did you become a DJ? I always tell people DJing found me. I am a self-taught DJ.
Why did you become a DJ? I serviced a lot of DJs with music before I started, with the latest music in the Caribbean realm, and I knew it was something I could do.
Did anyone inspire you to become a DJ? Yes, my brother. While he is not a DJ, he gave me the resources to make my dream come true. I am forever grateful.
MUSIC PRODUCER
Do you write, dance, sing, rap, and produce music? I have been producing music for 1 year.
Did any music producer influence you? Yes! Di Genius, Ryan Leslie, Baby Face, Major Lazer, and DJ Ashani Production.
Do you work digital or analog? Digital.
Do you have a favorite VST? Spectrasonics Omnisphere.
What Is your favorite DAW? I enjoy Ableton, Mixcraft and Serato Studio.
What is your favorite Hardware to use? Pioneer DDJ-SZ and Akai MPK249.
ARTISTS
Have you collaborated with other DJS and Producers? Yes! It is imperative to collaborate with your peers. Find people you can trust to create and share ideas with. There is always something to learn.
What was your moment collaborating? My favorite moment was working with DJ Ashani on my first single, Summer. DJ Ashani has been my brother in music for years.
I purchased his first midi keyboard to get him started. He has since brought me on the journey, and is teaching me the ropes. I am grateful for our friendship.
My favorite events are intimate events. The closer interactions with individuals are always a great time
DJ COALITION
Are you a part of any DJ Coalition? Shadyville DJS.
Tell us about the DJ Coalition? We are a collective of DJ’s from around the World founded by DJ Whoo Kid, CEO of Shadyville Entertainment.
We are tastemakers in our respective territories, releasing Shadyville DJ’s branded mixtapes and merchandise to promote new music and emerging artists in their regions and events.
Do you mix and host on radio? Yes, I am currently mix on radio – GMGT LIVE, and do guest DJ appearances on mix shows. You can catch me on Taste Radio, Sirius XM, Apple Music and more.
WORKING AS A DJ
Can you briefly describe your experience as a DJ. Including the types of events you’ve worked on? My experience as a DJ has been fulfilling. I have done corporate, wedding, club, private and concert settings.
Most recently, New Rules Festival featuring Alkaline, Mavado, Charly Blacks and more. I currently host my own yearly event under Boasty Events. The concept started as a quarantine concept, and came to life when we had more access to outside.
What genres of music are you most comfortable mixing, and do you have a signature style? I play a little bit of everything. However, I have a heavy Afro-Caribbean influence.
While playing hip-hop, r&b, pop, and you will definitely hear some dancehall, soca and afrobeat edits in the mix.
BEFORE A GIG
How do you prepare for a DJ gig? I prepare for a gig by understanding the event and what the client is looking for.
I use my best judgement during consultations to select tracks for the event. Upon getting to the event, I will take my time to test, read and understand the audience based on my selections and set crates.
Have you ever faced technical issues during a live performance, and how did you handle them? Yes, definitely! You have to learn to adapt and improvise.
I went to play at a concert, and the house CDJs were not working. I had to improvise and play on internal mode. It was not ideal, but I got through it.
LIVE REMIX
Do you have experience with live remixing, creating your own mixes and mashups? Yes! I am known for my remixes and DJ edits. I love adding a different flavor to my set. Visit www.djkaylag.com for more, or check out your favorite DJ record pool.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest DJ techniques? By connecting with my DJ peers and signing up for DJ newsletters. With social media and current technology it has been easier to keep up with techniques.
What software and tools do you use? I use Serato. I have a Pioneer DDJ-SZ. For my studio set up. I use the Pioneer PLX-1000, Pioneer DJM-S9 and Phase DJ.
BACKUP PLAN
What is your backup plan in case of equipment failure? I generally carry a backup mini controller incase of emergency.
Who are your favorite artists to work with? My favorite artists to work with are KHXOS, Alkaline, & Melly Rose.
How can artists work with you and send music? [email protected] with correctly labeled music and a pitch.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? 5 years from now, I see my self as a program director for radio and a world renowned DJ continuing to elevate in her career.
TIPS FOR NEW DJS
What tips do you have for new DJ?
Tips for new DJ would include:
- Practice
- Know your worth
- Understand how to conduct business
- Be bold with your branding
- Consistency is key
What types of events do you love the most? My favorite events are intimate events. The closer interactions with individuals are always a great time. However, I love events where people come out to have a GREAT TIME.
Photographer – Melissa Drouillard/ LivelifeMelissa
