Respect the DJ with Rocket Jackson

How did you get into DJing?

I made the official leap into the world of DJing after failing in a duo I was a part of by trying to use Ableton to essentially DJ. I stumbled upon DJ controllers through that experience and became aware of Serato and all of it’s powers.

What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?

Hours, days, weeks, months on YouTube learning the techniques of DJing. I studied the culture by being in the clubs and either in the DJ booth or next to it studying what working DJs were playing, and how different crowds react.

What did your first set up look like?

Macbook pro with Serato and the Pioneer DDJ-SX2.

@diplo smiled even harder after the sample dropped I promise. #tbt #goldieawards #striveforgreatness #rocketjackson #diplo

A post shared by Rocket Jackson 🖖🏾🚀🗽 (@rocketjacksonofficial) on May 3, 2018 at 1:07pm PDT

What does your current set up look like?

Macbook pro with Serato and the Pioneer DDJ-SX2 running through a Universal Audio Apollo Twin for better sound quality depending on the show.

How did you get your DJ/Artist name?

Rocket Jackson Jr. is my government name, so I just dropped the "Jr.” and rock with Rocket Jackson.

If you could DJ at any 3 events/festivals what would they be?

Hmm. First would be a “Full Tilt Music Festival” , which is my production company and label imprint that will be releasing lots of music this year. I really like “the do over”, the crowd seems to appreciate all types of music. EDC is also gonna be a vibe to play at as well! The energy in that crowd always seems next level from the videos I’ve watched.

First time up at Serato was a success. More life, more 🏆. #striveforgreatness #rocketjackson #serato 📸: @opmiller1

A post shared by Rocket Jackson 🖖🏾🚀🗽 (@rocketjacksonofficial) on Apr 10, 2018 at 3:04pm PDT

If you could DJ in any 3 cities what would they be?

London, Miami, or Tokyo

If you could be a tour DJ for any artist (dead or alive), who would it be?

Jay-Z, it would be a vibe to drop his classics on stage with him!

What is your goal when you play live?

Touch souls! I love when people come to me after a show and tell me that they felt some transition or flip I did in their heart & soul. I LOVE when that happens to me when I go out and hear musicians or see great talent in any field for that matter.

What's your go to song right now?

Man tough question lol. I think no matter the crowd I have to sneak in “flashing lights” by Kanye. That record always speaks to me when I hear it out in a club because it’s not necessarily a club song.

The #goldieawards was dope! The energy, the talent, the crowd, the all-star panel, everything was dope! Naturally, the competitive side in me is a little upset (only at my performance), but also content with the results. Although I didn't win, I am extremely happy that I was able to send a very clear message. I felt it was important to speak on the REALITY that myself and so many others face once we walk off that stage or out of that building. I know some of the veteran cats in the battle were not happy with the battle results, but for me as a fan first, you couldn't of asked for a better night. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Above all, I truly appreciate all of the love I got from so so so many people, of all races, who were moved by set. At the end of the day, that's what it's about. Inspire, entertain, educate. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I appreciate the fuck out of @atrak for putting this together and helping push music forward. I also respect @milesmedina for winning sure, but moreover talkin that talk during his set! #morelife

A post shared by Rocket Jackson 🖖🏾🚀🗽 (@rocketjacksonofficial) on Sep 9, 2017 at 10:28am PDT

What is your dream as a DJ?

Be the best in the world.

What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to become a DJ?

Become a part of the culture. Be in the clubs/bars/parties every chance you get. When you’re there, don’t worry about pulling numbers or dancing with girls (or guys), really study and listen to what’s going on and the crowd reactions. All of the technical stuff really doesn’t matter at the end of the day, you have to be with the people.

Where can people find you? (social media, website, etc)

IG- @rocketjacksonofficial

Website- www.rocketjackson.com