DJ, bring that back…

The art of being a DJ holds a special place in the hearts and minds of hip-hop fans around the world. The pantheon of superstar disc-jockeys is a long list, and the artist-DJ tandem has long been a staple of hip-hop stars (see Run DMC and Jam Master Jay). Before 2 turntables and a microphone gave way to new technology, a DJ with enough talent could build his own superstar status simply by being a DJ.

Independent hip-hop DJs, however, often have trouble finding their niche and breaking into the game. Nowadays in nearly all professions you have to be a jack-of-all trades; able to contribute a little of everything to a project. Independent DJs are no different, choosing to hone their rapping and production skills in order to catch a break.

Chapel Hill’s own Jeffery “DJ Free” Smith has caught on to the trend early, spending most of his time producing and running his entertainment company Top Shelf Entertainment. H’s also venturing into the rap world, laying down verses for some local rappers.

DJ Free currently is working on producing local rapper Carter’s album “Free Carter”. He plans on doing an album of his own in the summer.

Since DJ’s are usually seen and not heard, here are some videos of DJ Free talking about what it means to be a DJ in today’s times.

DJ Free on his Nickname

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JFree on Versatility

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” Being a DJ is an art form. The hard part is, now you can get all of your stuff done on a computer and people will think you’re doing everything live when you’re not. Technology is definitely taking over the game.”

                       -DJ Free

 

 

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