Muhammad Rashad also known as “DJ Redemption” or “@TheCollegeDJ” is a recent graduate of Towson University. He majored in art and design with a minor in EMF and is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Faternity, Inc. While most of us were getting dressed to go out and party on the weekends, he was probably preparing the music and setting up to host parties all around Baltimore and even in D.C.
Her Campus: When Did You Start DJing?
Muhammad Rashad: I began DJing in 2007 after I graduated high school.
HC: How Did You Get Into DJing?
MR: When I went to Love Nightclub I saw some guy DJing and it was then I decided that I would be the one doing that. I began carrying full desktop computers on trains and cabs in order to make it to gigs. I had to do that for a while until I was able to purchase a car.
HC: How Do You Prepare For a Party?
MR: Preparation for a party is an ongoing thing! Immediately following one event I have to stay current with music and constantly updating my library. Organization is a major part of what I do. I familiarize myself with my music and practice new mixes with new music and see what up-and-coming songs I will be able to throw into mix. The day of a party I usually like to chill until its showtime.
HC: What Is Your Job Now?
MR: DJing is my main Job. I have been doing it full time since 2009. I currently work at the Smithsonian Museums in the Audio Visual department.
HC: Does DJing Interfere With Work?
MR: The question would be does my job interfere with DJing. No it does not. During my interview I told the manager that I usually DJ Thursday Friday and Saturday nights so evenings I absolutely cannot do. Since I graduated college and over this past summer I found myself doing absolutely nothing during the days since I DJ at night. That’s when I decided to get a day job, in a field that I enjoy.
HC: Where Do You See Yourself In 5 Years?
MR: I should be well on my way to owning my own club. Leading up to that I would like to be a tour DJ and travel from city to city and even internationally. Owning my own club is my main objective and long term goal. Becoming the #1 DJ is what I strive for every day.
HC: Advice For People Who Want To Break Into Nightlife Business?
MR: Breaking into the nightlife scene can be very easy and very difficult. Like many other industries it’s all about who you know. If you happen to be at the right place at the right time you may be able to get a quick come up. But it’s really all about starting from the bottom. I remember when I did my first event, about 15 people came. So looking at events I do now and having 500+ people show up and remembering the days when nobody would come is really a great feeling. I am able to see my growth. The hardest thing about nightlife is the jealously that comes along with it. For whatever reason people do not like see other people succeed so when one person is trying to make it or if at any point someone feels like you are competing with them, things can get very ugly very quickly. If there is one thing I could change about the nightlife industry that is by far the number one thing I would change.
To check out his upcoming events, follow him on Twitter @ItsDJRedemption.