Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ SolKat.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Before I begin I would like to thank Chicago Voyage for this great opportunity.
I’m honored and excited.
Who would have ever thought a little girl from the South Side of Chicago’s West Englewood Community would be one of the hottest lady DJs playing at major events in downtown i.e. Millennium Park House Music Concert and Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom House Party, created her own House Music picnic and is now an official DJ for a house music legendary singer.
I grew up listening to different genres of music like R&B, Funk, Hip Hop and House. At the family parties my aunt Denise was the DJ. I was curious about the turntables, mixer and headphones. I would just stand there watching how she would select the records and found it fascinating how each song created a reaction from the crowd. After watching my aunt and Hip Hop’s famous lady DJ Spinderella on television I was inspired to DJ.
In 2007 I graduated from the International Academy of Design & Technology (IADT) with a B.A. in Interior Design. Unable to find steady work, the idea of DJ’ing came to mind. Although this was the perfect opportunity I was intimated because it’s a male dominated arena. A loud voice inside me said “Do It!” I said “OK!” I gave myself the name DJ SolKat. Besides me liking cats; it’s a play on words of me being a female and I play/select my music from my soul. I dropped the “u” from the word soul thinking it would look cool spelled that way. LOL.
I scraped up as much money as I could and asked a neighbor who happened to be a DJ where to buy equipment. He suggested the Guitar Center located in Country Club Hills. I bought a Gemini CD console and two 12” Behringer power speakers. I quickly printed and passed out business cards to close family and friends to let them know that I’m a DJ now! At first, people were skeptical of me DJ’ing their event. Although I was in my late 20’s I looked 18. I weighed 120 lbs and looked as if I knew nothing about different genres of music or how to DJ. The results after the party would always be how shocked they was with my skills and they’ll hire me again. I always make sure I select music for that particular crowd so everyone is dancing and enjoying themselves.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No it is not always easy. Yet with the help of God everything works out fine.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Queens of House – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Will be playing in this year’s Summer Dance downtown Chicago Friday, July 13th
The official DJ for Chicago’s own legendary House Music singer Mr. Curtis “Move Your Body” McClain
I just recently joined and became the DJ for the Chicago House Legacy Project (C.H.L.P.).
Was the first female DJ to play on WKKC 89.3 FM Friday Night Audio from 2015 to 2016
I created the Queens of House Picnic to showcase female DJs talent in 2015 after years of not seeing any House Music events catered to us. This year’s picnic will be held Sunday, August 5th at the Chicago Park District’s Calumet Beach with free entry.
I included the Princesses of House segment for 2 young aspiring DJs between the ages of 10 to 17. This portion would begin as the opening act for 1 hour. Afterwards, I would give them a cash token of $20, a certificate for participating and some encouraging words to keep going. Unfortunately I was unable to find some young ladies to participate this year. Yet, I’m happy about the positive feedback from people saying how much they enjoy the picnic and their granddaughter wants to be a DJ now. In 2016 the turnout was estimated, 1,100 attendees. Now in its 4th year, the Queens of House Picnic is gearing up for another awesome event!
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m working on making my own House Music tracks and pursuing a career in acting. I’m preparing for a lead role in a stage play called “8Right 7Left” that will run in October 2018.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/djsolkat/
- Twitter: twitter.com/djsolkat
Image Credit:
Paris Brightledge and ATOC
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
