DJ Parlayy

What is the meaning behind your DJ name?

I got my DJ name, Parlayy, back in college. My friends started calling me that because I was always the quiet, low-key one in our group - still involved, but often lost in my own world and very observant. One day, a friend jokingly asked if I was okay, and I replied, “Yeah man, just chilling.” He then said, “You know what? I’m going to call you Parlayy. You’re always parlaying, staying out of the way and never getting into drama or beef. That’s your new name!” It really stuck and perfectly captures my vibe!

Did you always want to be in the entertainment industry?

Yes, I’ve always wanted to be in the entertainment industry, but my initial focus was different. I studied marketing at Valdosta State University, aiming to work with a company’s marketing team on ads and campaigns rather than directly in the music industry. That shift happened later when I became a DJ.

I had the opportunity to shadow some established DJs from Valdosta State, like DJ Moneymaal, DJ SlimB, and DJ Ochoboomin, who taught me the ropes in the club scene. In October 2021, just a few months before moving to Atlanta after graduating, I attended an event for independent artists called Meet the Underdogs. It was a turning point for me—I realized that this is where I needed to be. The passion and drive of the artists there really inspired me.

To make it even more exciting, the artist Jaquees showed up, which reminded me of how unpredictable and full of opportunity this industry can be. After spending time in a couple of clubs and studying the game, I learned from my mentors just how crucial a DJ's role is in the music industry, especially in a hub like Atlanta. I also see the potential to grow alongside artists I believe in, sharing their vision as they aim for success. For me, it’s not just about the end goal; I’m genuinely excited about the journey ahead.

What is your thought process when working on a new DJ Set?

I don’t really have a set plan when working on a new DJ set. I prefer to read the room and gauge the energy of the crowd. If the vibe is high, I’ll kick things off on an upbeat note to show the audience that I’m here to meet them halfway and take the wheel from there. On the flip side, if the energy is different, I’ll adjust accordingly.

I believe that being too strategic and analytical while DJing can strip away the creativity and fun from the experience. If you’re overthinking it, you end up acting like a robot rather than allowing the music and the moment to flow. For me, it’s all about being in tune with the crowd and letting that inform my choices in real time.

What inspires you to DJ?

My inspiration to DJ comes from my deep love for music. I’ve been surrounded by it since I was young. A fun fact: back in 4th or 5th grade, I even dabbled in rapping during the height of Drake, Lil Wayne, and the YMCMB era. My rap name was Lil Miah - I'll leave it at that! Music was always a big part of my life, especially with my grandma playing bands and artists like The Whispers, Aretha Franklin, and her favorite, Michael Jackson.

My grandpa had an eclectic taste, enjoying everything from reggae to Carlos Santana, so my musical ear became pretty well-rounded. On top of that, I played four different instruments growing up - drums, tuba, piano, and guitar - and even took singing lessons. My mom recognized early on that music was my safe space and that I had a knack for it, so she made sure to immerse me in various musical experiences. All of these influences combined have shaped my passion for DJing today.

How would you describe yourself as a DJ?

I love bringing that fun and creative energy to my sets! As an entertainer, I enjoy coming out from behind the booth to vibe with the crowd. If I could change one thing about the Atlanta club scene, it would be to get rid of the sections and bring back those Boiler Room-style vibes where everyone gathers around the DJ. I miss those days when it was all about having a blast together, dancing, and enjoying the music, rather than it feeling like a popularity contest. Nowadays, it seems like it's all about who has the best drip or who's buying the most bottles. I believe the focus should be on the music and the shared experience, where everyone feels included and free to have fun!

What sets your DJ style apart from others in your genre?

I love to fuse different genres and create a unique sound that takes the crowd on a musical journey. While I do have a general game plan, I'm also flexible enough to change things up on the fly. I might start with some hip-hop, then throw in some throwbacks, transition to R&B, and mix in some trap. From there, I might shift to a drill beat, explore some amapiano, and then jump into house music. I like to include pop hits, too - think Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, and even LMFAO and Gangnam Style! It’s all about having fun and keeping the energy high.

I enjoy watching the crowd's reactions as I mix unexpected tracks. When I see that look of surprise and excitement, I know I’m doing something right. People often don’t know where they want to go musically until you lead them there. It’s like the saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” You can guide them through a musical experience, but it’s up to them to stay engaged. This approach keeps things creative and makes the set interactive, allowing me to experiment while keeping the crowd entertained. That’s what my DJing style is all about!

What does music mean to you?

To me, music represents one of the deepest forms of connection we can experience. It’s the language that finds its way into our hearts when words fall short. From a young age, we instinctively clap and dance to music before we even learn to speak, showing its fundamental role in our lives. I believe everyone has moments where music has been their sole source of comfort or connection.

Music brings us together, highlighting both our similarities and differences. It’s incredibly personal, yet it has a universal appeal that resonates with people from all walks of life. It's also a powerful vessel for memories; it helps us hold on to the past without nostalgia or regret. For me, music is an ever-present force that invites us to embrace every moment, creating a beautiful soundtrack to our experiences.

What obstacles have you faced in the music industry?

I’m still in the early stages of my journey as a DJ, but I’ve already encountered some obstacles along the way. I’ve faced situations that stemmed from bad business practices, and I've learned to navigate those challenges accordingly. However, I’ve also built many positive relationships throughout this process.

One key lesson I’ve taken away is the importance of protecting yourself. The music industry can be cutthroat, filled with people who are like lions and wolves, all striving to reach the top. Amidst that competitive atmosphere, staying true to yourself and being genuine is crucial. If you maintain your authenticity, everything else tends to fall into place.

Do people really understand the business of the industry?

The understanding of the music industry can vary significantly, depending on the individuals involved and their experience. While some people have a good grasp of how things work, many don’t have everything figured out from the start. The music business is a continuous learning process, constantly evolving with new trends and sounds emerging every day, especially with social media playing a significant role in what gets streamed.

Your team is crucial to your success -  they’re not only your backbone but also the frontline of your brand. If anyone on your team doesn’t share your vision or isn’t as invested in your success as you are, they may not be the right fit. It’s essential to surround yourself with people who are well-connected in the industry and genuinely support your journey. Building a community with talented artists is also vital, as collaborating with others can enhance both your brand and theirs.

What are your business plans and goals for 2025?

Watch me work. I’m all about putting in the effort and letting the results speak for themselves. Just wait and see what I’ll accomplish!