Ep.111 How to treat DJing like a business - Rob R Special Guest
Aug 22, 2024
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Rob R, a visionary DJ from Sri Lanka, is on a mission to elevate South Asian music globally. He shares his explosive journey from a novice to touring India and Europe in just two years. Highlighting the power of social media, Rob discusses how authenticity and strategic content creation can elevate DJ careers. He also delves into the vibrant South Asian nightlife, offering insights on proactive relationship-building and the importance of personal branding in the competitive music industry. Join him as he redefines DJing as a thriving business!
Rob R's transformative journey from a business career to DJing illustrates the importance of structure and strategic planning in building a successful music brand.
Through creative social media content and a focus on cultural storytelling, Rob R effectively showcases his dual heritage while resonating with a global audience.
Deep dives
Journey of Musical Passion
Rob R's passion for music began in his childhood, rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lankan and Indian music. Growing up in a British home in Wembley, he experienced a blend of traditional South Asian music and diverse genres like rap, reggae, and R&B. This multicultural environment enriched his musical taste but also led to his quest for identity, ultimately inspiring him to embrace the duality of his heritage. His early experiences with music collection through cassettes and CDs laid the foundation for his future as a DJ.
Transition to DJing
Rob transitioned into DJing after a successful career in business, inspiring him to explore a career in music. Observing friends who were DJs ignited his belief that he could learn the craft, prompting him to purchase DJ equipment and pursue lessons. He found success in playing small gigs for friends, gradually building experience and confidence. This journey was supplemented by attending music festivals to discover various genres, eventually leading him to develop a deep appreciation for Afro House music.
Using Viral Content Creatively
To share his music and culture globally, Rob leveraged social media as a platform for exposure by creating distinctive videos in scenic locations. His first viral video, filmed in a fruit shop in Sri Lanka, marked a turning point in his career, garnering significant attention online. By focusing on his environment and cultural nuances, Rob's content resonated with a wider audience, leading to an explosive growth in followers and bookings, especially from India. He continued to brainstorm and produce engaging content that showcased the unique blend of Afro House and South Asian music.
Building a Sustainable Career
Rob's strategic approach to DJing and music production reflects his entrepreneurial background, emphasizing the importance of structure and planning in building a brand. Collaborating with a manager, he seeks to expand his social media presence and secure more gigs while exploring opportunities in the festival circuit. This combination of effective marketing and authentic content creation has positioned him well in the competitive music landscape. He continuously focuses on learning and overcoming challenges to evolve both as a DJ and a music producer.