Meet Trailblazer Kelilah Daniels

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelilah Daniels.

Oohlala is a goal-driven, business savvy music enthusiast. She attended Clark Atlanta University where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Media Arts and Masters in Business: supply chain. While attending CAU Oohlala also worked full-time as a bartender in Atlanta’s most elite nightclubs as a means to afford to stay in college.

As a music lover and people pleaser, work is where she developed the curiosity of becoming a DJ. After a great money making night at the club, she took her earnings and went to Guitar Center the next morning and purchased DJ equipment. As Oohlala already had the relationships with well known DJ’s throughout the city of Atlanta, none were willing or had the time to teach her. So, she took the initiative to make things happen on her own, going straight to YouTube and searched “How to DJ.” YouTube led her to tutorials that she would watch and practice at home for days in between classes and work.

After months of practicing, she grew the courage to ask her managers could she DJ on slow nights for free. Not long after, she was being booked by clubs all over Atlanta. Immediately, after she crossed the stage receiving her Master’s Degree, she was booked for a Grammy-nominated “Pretty Girls Like Trap Music” tour across the country. Only having Dj’d less than a year touring opened her eyes to how far her passion for music could take her. Oohlala has since toured twice with artists such as 2 Chainz and Famous Dex and dj’d for the likes of James Harden, T.I., Grand Hustle, Adidas, Macy’s etc.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Two of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a female DJ are working in a male-dominated industry and being an entrepreneur. With me being a female DJ in the music industry which is predominantly male-driven, I’ve been judged by looks, treated differently than my male counterparts, and haven’t taken seriously for my talents. Now entrepreneurship by itself is its on a struggle. It’s literally a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. Yea, working for yourself sounds great until you realize you have to do all the footwork and be held accountable for any and all things.

For women who are just starting their journey, at any form of entrepreneurship, go hard for yourself because no one has your back like you can. There is no better time than now, don’t work harder for anyone else than you would for yourself. Don’t be discouraged, no one can be a better version of you than you and that is your power! When it comes to women empowerment, be genuine. Men put emotion last and realize the bigger picture when it comes to working with each other. We, as women, must do the same. So move with intentionality shining your light on another will not dim yours.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a Disc Jockey (DJ). Some will label me as a “Female DJ” because of my gender and that works too I guess, lol. I DJ for tours, clubs, weddings, corporate events, and private events. I specialize in setting a vibe. I’m known for my eclectic music taste and song selection. As for Oohlala brand, I’m most proud of what I’ve done and how far I’ve come. I went from djing for friends at my apartment to touring the country and djing for major brands such as Adidas and celebrities. What sets me apart from others is my package deal. My talent and professionalism get me to work but my personality keeps me working. People draw to me because I’m genuine and myself at all times. A lot of people think I’m funny even though I think I’m serious at all times lol but the positive energy I give out sets me apart.

So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
I think there are many opportunities women are particularly well positioned for. For example, as a DJ the objective when playing music in the club is to get the women to dance and in return entertain the men to get them to join in dancing as well. What better way to get a DJ to know what women want to hear than having a female DJ.

Contact Info:

• Email: oohlalathedj@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djoohlala/?hl=en
• Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dj-oohlala-61474483/

Image Credit:
@shotbyluck

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