DJ of the Week — Rockaway

DJ Rockaway

Every week we introduce you to a local LGBTQ party DJ and ask them about their experiences in the scene and feature an audio mix they’ve made. If you’re interested in being featured contact alley@qpdx.com.

This week’s DJ is a Cali resident but she’s in town for the recently re-branded Inferno dances that happen in an early Saturday time slot monthly at the Cuda Beach Club. Formerly targeted at the 35+ crowd, this barely 30 year old has seen plenty of peers and had a great time. And, apparently, if you’re butch all you have to do to get the ladies’ attention is lean against a wall.

When and how did you get started DJing? I’ve always been fascinated by music, the sounds, the blends, the lyrics and the emotion behind it. Music has been a big part of my life since I was a child. In 2000, I decided to go out and buy equipment without knowing anything about being a DJ. It was at that time that I discovered, DJ’ing came natural to me.
How did you get your DJ name? Being from Queens and living on Rockaway Beach, I tried to keep my NY roots in my DJ name. Hence, DJ Rockaway.

Who are your influences/inspirations? My inspiration is my passion for music – the way it makes me feel.

Why do you DJ? I DJ to create a music experience on the dance floor. I love going to a club and emersing myself in music. I want to provide the same for my crowd.

What parties/clubs do you currently DJ? I DJ Hot Flash/Inferno parties, Prides, and I’m a regular DJ for Olivia Cruises & Resorts.

What genres of music do you like to play? Hip Hop, R&B, Disco, Dance, Club, Retro, Mash-ups.

What are some of your current favorite tracks? I’m really into Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, Rihanna and Pitbull.

What do you wish would stop being played out right now? Drake.

What was your WORST DJ experience? I DJ’d a gig in Austin. Love the city but the crowd was a tough one. After trying to play a variety of music to fill the dance floor, I threw on a country song and low and behold, the dance floor was packed.

What was your BEST DJ experience? Too many to choose from.

What makes a DJ experience good for you? A crowded dance floor with lots of smiling, screaming and sweating!

What are your main pieces of equipment and your favorite? Give me a couple of CD’Js (Pioneer, Denon) and my Serato and I’m set for the night. Serato is my favorite.

What else do you want qPDX to know about you? I love to have impromptu dance parties any time any where…my car, your car, my house, your house, etc… and I love to laugh.

So maybe we can get Rockaway to a Saturday afterparty?