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.
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.
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.
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