Today we’d like to introduce you to Whipp Appeal
Hi Whipp, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
When folks ask me how I got into DJing I always say it chose me. Although music has been prominent in my life, I never thought about wanting to DJ. I was in a dark and confusing place in my life. I left a toxic job, the next job fell through and I didn’t know which route to take within my life. I felt lost. After talking to a spiritual man named Jacob the FaceReader by little five points while I looked for jobs on the strip, he said to me “what’s something you can get lost in that time and money doesn’t exist. When you find that is when you’ll find your purpose” that stuck with me. Over time I found myself one day in the bathroom thinking I was in a particular spot for a short period of time. Turns out I was listening to music for so long I ended up being in the bathroom for HOURS and didn’t know. So the question popped up again. “What is something you get lost in where time and money doesn’t exist?” “Music”. So after talking to the universe asking for more clarity, I was guided to get on my phone and a DJ controller popped up on my phone. My stomach started to glow with confirmation, and I trusted that and went with it. My mom helped me with creating my DJ name (thanks ma), I was mentored and given 100 songs to start with and it was up from there. As far as how I’ve gotten to where I am now, I would say alignment, passion, dedication, my faith, networking, and my community/family. I don’t have to say much because people can feel my passion and deep care and love I have for this craft. I’m honored to be apart of the new generation of DJs and I’m thankful that so many people vouch for me, speak of me when I’m not in the room, believe in me, love what I do, show up to my gigs consistently, the list goes on and on. I’m thankful to represent alternative, black, and queer DJs who love to share music from around the world! lastly shout out to the OG DJs that believe in me, don’t gatekeep, and always hold me accountable when I need it. You’re deeply appreciated.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. During this time of having confirmation to DJ, I was unemployed. I kept receiving a “no” right after the other. I had to borrow just the right amount of money to get my first controller in payments. Once I started coming outside with DJing more, I played at a friends bday party which unfortunately led to a cup of alcohol spilling into my computer and completely destroying it. I lost everything on it including all my music and everything I’ve worked so hard for. I had to (with a little bit of encouragement) post about my struggles to create a fundraiser to save up for a new computer as I lost everything and had to start over. I was thankfully out for one month before folks donated and helped me get a complete upgrade! After getting my new computer, the screen broke right after my first gig back. I’ve had someone hire me for a gig just to decide not to pay me and call me out my name, I’ve had folks compare me to my other fellow women DJs and tell me other women were more successful than I because of my look, the list goes on. That’s not even the mental strain of me having an imposter syndrome mindset, doubting myself, all the things but I made it through! My most recent haha struggle moment was my wife surprising me with an upgraded controller and less than an hour of it being delivered, someone stole it. So definitely ups and downs for sure but I always say it’s apart of my success story.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an open format DJ! I love to expand the listers ear by playing with familiar sounds while bending genres. I’m most proud of the accomplishments I’ve made in a year span of DJing. I’m proud of the relationships that I’ve built so far, my growth within my spiritual practice, and strengthening my relationship with myself. I’m proud that I listened to the calling and decided to take the leap. I’m proud of who I am and how I express myself musically. As far as what sets me apart from others, I’d say my song selection, my personal DJ style, and the way I personally blend different genres together to create a full blown eclectic experience. I’d also add the way I personally express myself. Being an alternative looking women DJ, no one knows what I can truly do until I press play. I love that, it’s like a super power.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I’ve learned the art of risk taking when it comes to DJing. Most times that people are deeply loving what I share, I’m taking risks. Sometimes it’s amazing! Others, you just gotta get out of there and keep it moving. Before DJing, I never thought I would be among so many people being a vessel. I literally was so terrified when I started, I had to hide when I drank water so people wouldn’t see my hands shake. Risk can show you parts of yourself you didn’t know needed to be seen. No matter how the risk goes in life, at least you made the effort. With that no matter what you win, learn, and grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bio.site/DJ.Whipp
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whipp.appeall?igsh=Z3lzY3V1ZTI0dnZq&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq-gL07-KjdzWn2plwwKnWAKICT-xLFaj&si=dNyv2I31TKX5O82-
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/tBowk11uPVHJ9uNT6
Image Credits
Keamber
Anitra
Brandy
