Today we’d like to introduce you to Mami Popo.
Mami, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was always a music lover. My parents had me at an older age so I grew up listening to classic rock, old school r&b (mainly 70s/80s), and reggae. I also listened to a lot of rap/trap music due to growing up in Riverdale, and having an older brother who was a teenager during this time.
My parents always saw that I had an eye for music so they had me sing in the choir, play the piano, and also become a percussionist. I liked doing all of these things, but didn’t necessarily like the pressure that came with it. When I realized that DJing wasn’t as hard as it looked. I decided to pursue it because it involved me curating a vibe, and showing my love for music without the pressure that comes with performing live.
I was a photographer before I started DJing so I essentially already had connections in the nightlife industry, and once I started posting DJ content on my page that took off more than my photography did. I had my first gig October 2024, and recently I/ve been able to play at Rock Steady, The Trap music Museum, and even get my own Studio Session for Cam Kirk. So it’s crazy seeing how quick this is all picking up. Seems meant to be honestly.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road hasn’t been smooth, but I can’t complain. A lot of DJs have been doing this longer than me without getting similar results. The hardest thing in my opinion is getting your name out there, and having people take a chance on you when you’re fresh to the scene. Once you get that first opportunity though you have to grab onto it and keep the momentum going. Just never give up and keep on pushing.
I also think that with be being a woman DJ people automatically take me less seriously. I’ve had people question if I was the DJ for the night at gigs I was working at, and have gotten comments asking if I actually DJ or just look pretty. There’s a lot of misogyny in the nightlife industry, but there are great communities as well. Gotta just keep on pushing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Mami Popo is a Jamaican-American DJ based in Atlanta, known for her vibrant, inclusive sets and genre-blending style. She’s played at premier venues like Rock Steady, The Trap Music Museum, Cam Kirk Studios, and Our Bar ATL, with a sound rooted in Hip-Hop, Afrobeat, House, and Dancehall.With a growing following and a bold presence, she brings electric energy to every crowd she touches.
I’m an open format DJ so I just kinda play whatever genre feels right in the moment. I think my Caribbean heritage makes my mixes a bit different. I combine all sides of me really to create a unique and distinct sound. I think I’m most proud of the events me and my friends run. We call our collective Riddim Nation, and we throw Caribbean parties. They’ve been pretty successful so far, and I’m happy we’re able to creative a safe and fun space for our community.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
A lot of DJs are more friendly than you would think honestly. Just put yourself out there and introduce yourself. There are DJ mixers and communities in Atlanta where you can find a mentor too. I know Mashup Sessions w/ DJ Unruely …..has DJ mixers where you can network. And DJ Miss Milan has a chat of women DJS that support each other. She also hops on calls with us whenever she gets the time.
Pricing:
- My pricing really depends on the event
- Weddings/Private Events (100 to 150 an hour)
- Club Gigs (80 to 100 an hour)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @imthepopo
Image Credits
Meecheyes
Crestof.love
