Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ M3L, Jamel Rowland.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I’ve lived my whole life here in Atlanta, and I’ve seen key aspects of this city change that I personally believe should have stayed. The city has traded love for pain, and that bothers me greatly. There are too many people wanting to act “hard” and “tough” instead of spreading love and positivity. No city is perfect, but to say Atlanta’s culture has changed for the “better” would be a lie (in my opinion). I was never a popular child, nor did I desire to be. I felt as long as I was honest and genuine, everything else will fall into place. While living and growing in the social background, I have met amazing people who are creative, influential, and also are amazing leaders in their communities. I want to replicate that myself and become a staple for my communities one day. I realized the best way for me to accomplish this is through the medium of music and open dialog. The music and parties will give people the chance to release their daily stress and worries of life. On the other hand, the open dialog and engagement posts across my social media will create more conversations and hopefully awareness and action inside the various communities across Atlanta. This is just one small step in a bigger plan. I hope to accomplish one day. I truly believe with the power of music, dialog, and action that anything is possible.
Please tell us about your art.
I am a DJ, so clearly, my passion is in the music world. I grew up in music from chorus, band, and everything in between. I create various mixes and playlist on Youtube, Spotify, and other sound mediums. I do not focus on one specific genre I prefer to let the music guide me to its destination. If I had to label myself as a genre-specific DJ, it would be R&B/Hip Hop. I placed R&B first because that is what I grew up on mostly and Hip Hop followed shortly after. I always believed music has the power to tell amazing stories and alter moods in unexplainable ways. My goal is to master the art of manipulation and storytelling. I want to send the message of being yourself, spread love, and inspire others to continue to chase their passions regardless of what stands in their way. I stress to everyone I work with on a daily basis. I remind them that if it’s not original, then keep it away from me.
I also want to curate a new yet familiar sound back to Atlanta. The whole “trap weirdo” thing is played out at this point. I feel the same about normal trap music as well. The cadence and persona of a “drug dealing killer” have been played out for a while now. It’s time to get back to the creative side of music where we challenge each other to bring something new to the table and stop mimicking another person’s style. No disrespect to anyone out here creating because we have received some amazing music during this era, but it is painfully obvious that people are just in it for the money now and not the love/art. I want to change that and restore balance back in the musical community with actual talent and dedication.
What do you think about the conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
The conditions for artists have never been easier in this modern era of technology. All it takes is the right person following you or one special retweet/like then “BOOM” you are popular. The trick is to stay consistent and relevant. That is what makes life difficult for artists because there are too many selling out for gimmicks just to get attention. Unfortunately, that drowns out the actual people with talent and love for the art. This applies beyond music too. Large cities like Atlanta are the ultimate platform for up and coming artists, but it takes consistent dedication from them, and the fans have to want it. There are plenty of events across the city, but we (artists) have to either find our spot or carve one out. It all depends on the goals of that person.
There’s an ear/eye for everyone it’s up to us to find them. So if you’re reading this don’t stress on the “No’s” you may receive or the support you feel is missing. Continue to put your soul in your art and lifestyle so when it’s all said and done you can truly say you gave it your all. The fans and money will come just stay down and keep grinding until it’s your time to shine.
Keep in mind this is coming from someone who was DJing house parties from a busted iPhone 6 plus for free, and now I have people willing to pay for my services. Am I still at the bottom of the totem? Definitely, but I know there is something great waiting for me if I keep pushing. I never speak on anything I haven’t lived through or haven’t seen myself.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My Tag Names are the following:
www.ifoundjm3l.com – Personal Website/Blog
_iamDJM3l_ – Instagram
DJ M3L – YouTube, Facebook, SoundCloud, MixCloud
To support my work, you can subscribe to my Youtube, Soundcloud, MixCloud, Spotify. I do not charge for any of my work because I everyone to have access to my creations with no issue. I am also a mobile DJ, and I travel often for various parties and events. To keep up with where my next event is follow me on Instagram and Facebook. For all booking information, contact me through my Website/Blog, Facebook, or Instagram.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ifoundjm3l.com
- Email: iwantdjm3l@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_iamdjm3l_/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAMDJM3L/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/_IAMDJM3L_
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSWbIu5VrdEVDTawV-YeGckWpprOj7PAN
Image Credit:
A.KolaProduction
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
