DJ ForTunes: The man behind the 1’s and 2’s
Q: Where did the name DJ ForTunes comes from? What is the story of you as an artist?
DJ ForTunes
A: My pops actually gave me the name DJ ForTunes. Being a DJ himself, his old stage name was DJ ForPlay so he wanted me to have a similar name to show we had relations with each other. In middle school and high school I played a lot of instruments. During that time my pops started DJ’ing and practicing on his turntables. I made it my mission to learn this new instrument, to make a career of my own. I do not know why but when I first learned how to use the equipment, I fell in love with it immediately. I practiced almost everyday and I did research on how I can become better. My pops saw how much of a passion I had, so he advised me to learn more on how to produce, because if you’re good at DJ’ing you’re probably good at producing too. Eight years later, I’m a resident DJ at 4 venues in NY, I’ve produced 2 EP’s (ForTune Cookies Vol. 2 is out now!), I’ve DJ’d all over the world and produced tracks for international artist. It’s been a long journey but I can’t and will not stop. I have big dreams that I’m going to make come true. This is only the beginning.
Q: Where did you learn the skills when becoming a DJ?
A: When I was younger my pops and his friend who introduced him into DJ’ing (DJ Mister Klean) taught me the basics but when I got to college I met some DJ’s who sharpened my skills.. DJ Z-Rex, DJ Krypto, DJ Taayy, and DJ Tre Fiyah are all the amazing DJ’s that taught me new and important information that made me the great DJ/producer I am today. I appreciate all of them.
Q: If you could perform at any club or venue around the world where would it be and why?
A: I do not have a specific venue or club I want to DJ at but I do want to DJ in Brazil. I have heard the energy and the music is on another level out there and I want to experience it first hand. I actually want to DJ all over the world to be honest so I could not choose just one spot. My goal is to have at least one residency in every country by the time I’m 26.
Q: What can you tell the public about your newest released project?
A: ForTune Cookies Vol. 2 is a reminder that you need to know your worth. If you feel your frequency or your energy is getting lower while you are dealing with someone, stop giving them attention. It is up to you to realize that you deserve to be happy. I learned a lot about myself while making this project and I biggest thing I learned is that some people don’t deserve my time or energy and I want people to understand that too.
Q: Would you ever want to produce, if you don't already, why or why not?
A: Yes, I produced this whole project.
Q: What would you like the public to know about the music you create? Is there a specific inspiration?
A: All the music I create is honest. My job as a DJ/producer is to move the listener and I feel the best way to do that is with honesty.
Q: What is one thing that you see yourself struggle with as an artist and DJ?
A: The biggest thing I struggle with as an artist, is comparing myself to other artists. It is so easy to look at an artist who is more successful or experienced and ask yourself “Why don’t I have that?” Then you try your hardest to become that artist and you can’t because you are not them. Before it made me unmotivated because I wanted everything another artist had right now but I realized that it takes time to become the best and be successful. It’s a struggle but I am learning to be patient with myself, I am starting to practice more frequently, and I have been putting my all into my craft.
Q: What do you like most about A.L.I.E.N Entertainment?
A: A.L.I.E.N Entertainment gives all of the underdog artist a platform to broadcast their talents. You could be a painter, a producer, a singer, a writer etc. If you are serious about your craft A.L.I.E.N Entertainment will help you reach more people. I respect that, not a lot of groups are doing that.
Q: Who do you look up to in the music world? What is it about them that inspires you?
A: Pharrell Williams is my biggest inspiration. He was able to create his own sound, his own clothing brand and he was respected by everyone. For you to do all of that in the early 2000’s and still be relevant and highly respected in 2019 is astounding to me. He inspires me to be better and work harder.
Q: Where can the public access your music?
A: You can find me all music streaming platforms, just look up DJ ForTunes. My Instagram is @dj.fortunes and my twitter is @dj_fortunes
To Check out DJ ForTunes Latest Tape and mixes Click here.