They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but for DJ Karisma Groove, one word speaks volumes. “I can be summed up in 1 Word… Karisma,” he declares with a grin that radiates pure infectious energy.
Welcome to In Session, where we dive into the world of Wavezoo’s most captivating DJs, and today, we’re turning up the volume with the one and only Karisma Groove! Get ready to hear about his passion for pushing boundaries, his unique sound, and what it means to be a part of the dynamic Wavezoo fam. Let’s get this session started!
1. How did you start DJing? Tell us about your origins
For quite some time, friends and people around me had been telling me I should be a DJ. It all started because whenever I created a playlist, people were impressed by my song selection. However, lacking any inherent musical talent, I never felt like I could actually become a DJ myself.
Fast forward to a night at Blind Tiger, a popular after-hours club in Los Angeles frequented by big-name DJs. The club also serves as a hangout spot for those in the industry. On that particular night, I struck up a conversation with a music producer and, with no career-oriented motives, simply asked if he could get me into the VIP area. I just wanted to see if someone I’d just met could vouch for me at this well-known underground club. My confidence and style must have done the trick, because I secured entry into the VIP area.
Now, here’s the twist: despite never having touched DJ equipment before, I was approached by someone producing a show in a nearby city and asked if I was a DJ. Seizing the moment, I looked him in the eye and said absolutely. Through conversation, I managed to get booked for a live show with a crowd of around 500 people! Realizing I’d just booked myself for a gig I wasn’t prepared for, I hit the ground running and did everything I could to prepare for the show. Although the show ended up getting canceled just before the date, I had already made the commitment to pursue this path, and I was off to the races.
2. Who would you say are your influences?
- On stage presence: Fisher.
- Mixing style: James Hype.
3. What do you think about the future of DJing? Where we are headed?
I’m incredibly excited about the future of DJing, especially within the area of the industry I’m pursuing. It’s becoming more mainstream, moving away from its niche past. DJs are increasingly becoming the rock stars of our time.
However, the influx of new DJs creates a somewhat saturated market. This increased competition will ultimately lead to a rise in highly skilled DJs and producers.
4. What can people expect from your shows?
People can expect an experience from one of my shows. It’s not about having a fancy stage or lighting systems that change the visuals; it’s the energy that I bring to the room that is infectious.
I believe DJs have a few key things they need to accomplish for a good party. While some might say it’s your mixing ability or track selection, I personally believe the most important thing is not only to read the energy of the room but to also guide or control it. We don’t just assist the vibe; we have to bring the vibe.
It’s not always about playing what the crowd thinks they want; it’s about playing what they don’t even know they need to hear at that point.
5. What would be your ideal party? Let people know what would be your top tracks
I curate a base playlist for my parties and then improvise based on the feeling after my first few tracks, which are usually the only planned part of my set. I have a knack for figuring out the next tracks and the direction of the energy on the fly. Because each set is different, the crowd doesn’t feel like I’m just following a routine. I’m creating new art every time, which excites me. My ability to control the energy of the room and be a leader translates into a party that usually maintains a consistent vibe.
At some point in each set, I include some of my signature routines called “Doubles.” This is where I play two songs simultaneously for an extended period, seamlessly blending them together. Some might call this a mashup, which is essentially the same thing.
One thing that remains consistent is my intro, which is a remix of “Welcome to the Jungle” by Cloverdale and DJ Susan. However, for a multi-hour party, the starting track varies depending on how I want to build the energy throughout the night.
6. Help other DJs to level up, give the community a tip that will improve other DJs performance
When it comes to live streaming, treat it like a live show with a crowd – because that’s exactly what it is! You just can’t see the audience. Don’t let the lack of a physical crowd hold back your energy. Give it your all on every set. The impact you leave on viewers can open doors to new opportunities in ways you never imagined.
On the mixing and DJing side, take chances! While the standard methods are clean and reliable, many people rely on them. To stand out in this competitive industry, you need to find ways to set yourself apart.
7. Let the people know what is going on in your life
Keep an eye out for my live shows across Southern California. If you are in the LA area there will be ample opportunity to see me live. I will be having a few tracks produced by me released on all streaming platforms.
It’s great that you’re giving a platform for DJs to work digitally. The only piece of advice I have for this company is to value those that create their own sound and do things that are different, instead of keeping the industry at a standard. This art form thrives on pushing boundaries and innovation. Let’s keep the groove fresh!
Karisma Groove
If you are a Wavezoo DJ and would like to appear in our interviews, please contact us!
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