Touch, spin, repeat

For DJ Reborn, spinning records isn’t just about moving crowds – it’s about telling stories and creating spaces for reflection, joy, and even revolution. With a career spanning years and a passion for activism, she’s been at the forefront of blending music and social justice through her initiative DJs for Justice. What were DJ Reborn’s early days in the industry and how does she continue to evolve her sound while staying true to her purpose?

hube: What initially drew you to DJing, and how did you get started in the industry?

DJ Reborn: Growing up in a family of record collectors and music lovers, DJing felt almost inevitable for me. My oldest brother was a musician, so there was always music around. I was especially drawn to vinyl – the artwork, liner notes, the physicality of it. Riding my bike around Chicago with music in my ears was pure joy.

When I started to understand what DJs do – control the mood, the energy, and tell a story – I knew that was something I wanted to be part of. Initially, it was just a hobby. I didn’t think of it as a career until later. I’d collect records, DJ at events for free to build my skills, and eventually decided to go all in. I moved to New York to see if I could make a living from it, and here I am.

h: You’re known for blending various music genres in your sets. Could you share your approach to mixing different styles of music?

DJR: It’s all about personal taste and storytelling for me. Growing up, I loved listening to different genres, and that curiosity stuck with me. I like taking things that don’t seem like they should fit together – whether that’s hip-hop and jazz or Afrobeat and house – and finding a way to make them blend.

It’s more than just keeping the beats per minute aligned; it’s about mood and energy. Sometimes I’ll start with slower classics, then build into something more high-energy, like Afrobeat or house, without worrying about sticking to one genre. The challenge is keeping it seamless while taking the listener on a journey.

h: As an educator, how do you incorporate your passion for DJing into your teaching methods?

DJR: Just like in DJing, where I adjust the set based on how the crowd reacts, teaching is about being flexible. Not every student will respond to the same teaching method, so I adapt my approach – just like I would if a track isn’t hitting with the crowd. It’s all about finding what works and keeping the energy flowing.

And when it comes to DJing, I tell my students it’s like being an athlete: you have to learn from your mistakes without letting them hold you back. Whether you stumble on a mix or in life, the key is moving forward and pushing yourself.

h: The DJs for Justice aims to work for racial justice through the art of DJing. Could you share more about the inspiration behind this initiative and some of the specific ways in which you hope to use DJing as a tool for social change?

DJR: DJs for Justice came about during the pandemic, around the time of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor’s murders. I wanted to use my craft to raise awareness and support those on the front lines of activism. DJs can do more than just make people dance. Music can be a tool for revolution. I’ve always loved DJing for organisers and activists, creating spaces where people fighting for justice can also experience joy.

I’ve also used DJ sets to incorporate speeches and revolutionary music. The goal is to collaborate with other DJs who share this vision and to show how music can be a part of liberation movements.

h: What advice would you give to aspiring DJs who are looking to break into the industry?

DJR: Find your sonic voice – your signature sound that sets you apart. Every DJ has a unique personality in how they spin, and that’s what makes you memorable. Learn technical skills, like beat matching without relying on sync buttons. Trust your ear and instincts.

Also, the community is huge. Find your tribe of like-minded DJs and supporters, and don’t be afraid to pay your dues. Play small gigs, even for free, if it helps you build connections. Show your sound to the right people, and opportunities will come.

h: In your opinion, how has the role of DJs evolved over the years, particularly in terms of their influence on culture and society?

DJR: It’s interesting because, in the early days of hip-hop and house music, DJs were the stars. Over time, MCs took the spotlight, but now we’re seeing DJs reclaim that space. Technology has also democratised DJing. Tools like Serato have made it easier for more people to access the craft, which has broadened the industry.

What’s exciting is that DJing now feels like a concert experience. With lighting, visuals, and effects, it’s become this full-blown performance, which elevates the art form and gives DJs more cultural influence.

h: How do you stay inspired and keep your creativity flowing, especially during challenging times or periods of creative block?

DJR: It’s hard, especially when the world feels heavy. But I remind myself that I have the privilege of working for my purpose. That helps keep me grounded. I take inspiration from everything – reading, art, world events, even yoga or meditation.

When the world is on fire, I dig deeper into my music library. Nina Simone said it best: ‘An artist’s duty is to reflect the times’. That’s what I try to do – use my craft to speak to the moment we’re living in, even if it’s hard.

h: Looking ahead, what are some of your goals or projects that you’re excited about for the future?

DJR: I’m working on an orchestral tribute to women in hip-hop at Lincoln Centre, where I’ll be DJing live alongside an orchestra. I’m also revamping DJs for Justice and developing a performance-based show about women DJs from around the world, telling their stories through DJing. There’s a lot in the pipeline, but those are two projects I’m especially excited about.