Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ Monie.
Hi DJ Monie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Si’mone ‘DJ Monie’ Lewis
I walked away from Corporate America back in 2017 to pursue my Entrepreneurial dreams. I had no idea that leap of faith would land me here! I started doing “graphics”, back in 2017 and have now grown into to a full-scale branding firm, Twisted Elevation. We have shared our creative juices and worked on projects for some of the world’s top entertainers.
In 2019, I was splitting time between Atlanta and Los Angeles. I was still in search of my “purpose”, the thing that was going to set my soul on fire, so we packed up and decided to relocate to Las Vegas, unbeknownst to us, the world was about to shut down. I found myself in the party capital and couldn’t party… I literally woke up one day and decided to take my talents from behind the computer screen and try my hand at DJing.
With the help of Amazon, I decided to turn apartment into a nightclub! As I began to develop my skills via YouTube videos, Crossfader and Serato tutorials, and tons of practice, I quickly realized that resources, groups, and mentoring opportunities for aspiring DJs, let alone female DJs, were limited to nonexistent – so I did what I do best – CREATE!
In 2020, I created the Melanated Deejays Coalition because it’s critical that women of color have a fair chance in claiming their stake in that and influencing the future of events, this industry, and more! The platform is intended to bring female-melanated DJs together. Give us a place to share, learn and grow, not only as a DJ but as a professional brand!
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?
My mother always used to tell us growing up, “nothing worth having comes easy”. DJing definitely has proven to not be any different. It’s sometimes difficult to penetrate a heavily male-dominated industry. But, I do believe that if you create a brand, put in the hard work, make the important connections, show up and do your absolute best every time, people will begin to notice and your bank accounts will start to reflect it!
Sometimes I’ll go back and look at old recordings from when I first started and am filled with gratitude because I didn’t give up!!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a DJ, Entrepreneur, Body-Positive Influencer, multifaceted party-starter and a force to be reckoned with behind the turntables. Although I pride myself on being “The Risqué DJ”, my brand has proven to be irresistible to men and women alike, and with a growing social media following, I am more focused than ever on aligning myself with strategic partners that complement my brand and brand message.
Tune into my Twitch for Ladies Night every Wednesday 9pm EST / 6pm PST for some fun, good vibes, and great music! For a more intimate social experience, subscribe to Playboy Centerfold.
LINKS:
twitch.tv/thedjmonie
centerfold.com/thedjmonie
Melanated DeeJays Coalition is a private members only DJ Coalition for female DJs of color that strives to provide guidance for aspiring deejays and brand management for existing mixologists. Join the coalition for FREE!! *limited time only
LINKS:
www.melanateddeejays.com
instagram.com/melanateddeejays
Twisted Elevation is a full-service brand management and design firm. We service clients in Atlanta and worldwide. We specialize in brand conceptualization, creation and management for influencers, personal brands, and small to large businesses.
LINKS:
www.twistedelevation.com
instagram.com/twistedelevation
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My biggest advice for anyone who wants to start DJing or even wants to start their own business or brand…
1. Take yourself seriously – If you don’t, no one else will!
2. Branding is everything!! – Your brand is what sets you apart from anyone else. Get professional help creating a brand that will make you stand out and look polished and professional.
3. Set your rates/prices at a rate that will make you feel good about the product or service that you’re offering.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.djmonie.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/thedjmonie
- Facebook: facebook.com/thedjmonie
- Twitter: twitter.com/thedjmonie
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCe37NW0O7Eb8zYYtBYmMe8A
- SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/thedjmonie
- Other: www.mixcloud.com/thedjmonie
Image Credits
ADJ Media (Antoinne Duane Jones) instagram.com/antoinneduanejones Kief & Kale (LaMarr Lewis) instagram.com/kief_and_kale
