Kevyn Backmon shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Kevyn , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is a normal day like for you right now?
Right now a typical day for me is pretty busy. I start with my coffee and snack pack before work as a Special Education teacher then I clock in to work with my kids. After work I usually hit the gym for the mental and physical clarity. After my workout, I usually head home to eat dinner and then lock in on my music. Whether its downloading the latest tracks or producing my own, that is the culmination of my day. I’m a bit of a workaholic and will stay on the studio till pretty late.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Its good to be back, for those who don’t know I am DJ Steezy, a son of Baltimore who has thrived in Charm City as an open-format DJ for the past 7 years. I have established myself as one of the city’s best DJ’s with over 30 residences in the DMV and Washington DC. My music company is DeadDuck Music Ent. LLC.
My musical roots were influenced by my father, a former DJ from the Baltimore club scene of the 80s. I have produced dozens of my own Remixes, Mash Ups, and Bootlegs and released 20+ Original Songs. I completed mixing and mastering production on local rapper Brian Glo’s entire Album, Peace and Power Vol. 3 in 2021. Recently, I have had the opportunity to open for some Major artists the past few years, including Bruno Mars, Madison Park, E-Que, Angrybaby and DJ Duo Fortune Favors.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
When it comes to my work ethic, I learned a lot from my Grandmother and my Dad. My Grandmother was a phenomenal Baltimore City Special Education teacher in the 1950s. she served this city for over 30 years and worked tirelessly to help her students in everyway possible. My father has had many careers throughout his life. He has always been punctual and worked his best at whatever he was doing. My Dad was also a DJ in his youth and stressed to me the importance of song selection and well timed transitions.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Honestly, I think about giving up everyday. As a DJ, you must constantly be ahead of the curve when it comes to knowing new music, promoting your music and your shows, handling imposter syndrome, an unusual sleep schedule, and balancing a personal life. It’s a hard profession that requires dedication, resilience, and self-discipline. This job is not for the weak. While there is the flashy side of this career, playing music, traveling, constant parties, and vibing with crowds , it takes hard work behind the scenes to enjoy that side.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
While in the past talent was the only thing needed to rise in the entertainment industry, now its a lot more to it. You need a personality, a hook to pull the masses in. For industry management, they are not looking for your talent, but how many followers you have, what’s your clout, what else do you bring to the table. DJs are the new promoters, as they are increasingly expected to take on the promotional side of things to boost ticket sales and bar revenue.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
I would regret not taking the shots at record labels, trying for spots at larger venues, and putting my music out there. I’m still finding my sound but I don’t want waste any opportunity to grow in the industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://deadduckmusic.com/home
- Instagram: dj_steezy_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dj.Steezy.86/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGyU1FG2NIFaeYRQeCD3-ug
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-804571326
Image Credits
Molly King
Taha Ahmed
Evelyn Hosie
