DJ Jersey Jon Talks Acts of Service, In's and Out's of DJing, and Mental Health
How can you not love a man who finds it necessary to give back? Jersey Jon is more than just a D.J. and talent, he is a man connected with communities, a man that feels compelled to provide opportunities. During a pandemic, he has blessed families with Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas dinner and toys, Valentine's day gifts to the children at Hackensack Hospital, and shares his stage with up-and-coming artists. Jon saw how celebrities grow and gain fame just to misuse their power and influence. Not wanting to fall into that trap, once he gained a following and became an influence he made the conscious decision to use his influence for good. Jon says, "If I can get people together to party, then I can get them together for good".
The act of service mentality is also the root of his advice to up-and-coming DJs. His advice to local and regional DJs looking to branch out and reach a bigger market is to connect with the people. He expounds on his advice by stating, "Being a DJ is not about how good you are, it's about your network. Being booked means being able to bring something to the table as an entertainer. Your goal should be to connect with the people, hook them first".
"The biggest misconception about DJs are three things. That we're always lit, always drunk, and always with girls. I started DJing in high school and started touring in college, I've lived that life, and I've matured, I'm over it. That's not me anymore". Jersey Jon evolved through his experience and exposure, which led to him taking his mental health seriously. " The worst part about being a DJ and touring is that people intend to get something from me. I'm constantly being used - for business purposes. People can be calculating and rude. I grew to learn that first impressions are not always the right impressions. Now, that took time. I don't think I could have said this a year ago. But I realized that friendships are more important to me than business. Relationships are hard to maintain, especially because I travel a lot and meet a lot of people. So I found ways to help me stay organized. For example, my contact list is organized with people's occupations, locations, and how we met. I don't want to disrespect people by not remembering our last encounter so I try to cover myself".
Another way that he ensures his mental health is strong is by staying disciplined. Working out is important to him and does it daily. He doesn't drink or do drugs and practices gratitude often. "I realize that I am living my dream and I appreciate it. My me-time is going out to work. I'm a college student (studies Digital Marketing) and I work hard during the week. Work is my release". This young man is dedicated too, he brought homework to the interview!
"The best part about being a DJing is traveling and meeting people, seeing the value in people. When I started posting that I would be in Jacksonville, FL I got 100's of DM's. That rarely ever happens. Duval was ready to connect and work. It's the perfect city, it's underplayed. People here are involved in their community".
What's next for DJ Jersey Jon. More work and more bags to had. His ultimate dream is to tour off his name alone, and not another artist. He is a young visionary, full of virtues and accountability, with an amazing work ethic, and a humbled spirit.
