DJ Dennis “Dennis J” Jones, owner of The Creative Music DJ, has been entertaining since 1987. Located in San Diego, his full service, turntable-based entertainment company provides entertainment for weddings, corporate events and upscale birthday celebrations.

1. How and when did you get started as a DJ?
I have always been into music, and have a great deal of respect for the art of “turntablism.” When I was old enough, I got a job and saved up enough money to buy my first set of turntables. My neighbors can attest to the nightly sounds coming from the garage as I learned to mix by ear with vinyl. I didn’t have any DJ friends so I taught myself the basics and bought VHS tapes to learn more.

2. Is this a full-time job or something you do on the side?
This is my full-time career. I did the collegiate thing in the past and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a Master’s degree in Business. Working Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., meeting couples every night to discuss weddings plans and DJing once or twice every weekend got tiring. I was laid off in 2008 and decided to pursue DJing full time. I have been fortunate enough to earn a decent living off of it.

3. What CHAUVET® fixtures are included in your setup?
4BAR Tri is my staple lighting fixture. I’m actually thinking about purchasing another one to illuminate the other side of the room. I also have a decent amount of CHAUVET® LED PARS for uplighting.

4. What is your favorite fixture and why?
My favorite fixture is the 4BAR Tri — it gives opportunity for great dance floor photos. I see a lot of photos and the dance floor is always so dark — not my events. Here is a photo of a dance floor with just one 4BAR Tri:

5. Best advice you can give someone just getting started in the DJ industry?
Practice your craft. There are a lot of people making money who just ‘play music’ who have no respect for the art of DJing. If you want to stand out, don’t be one of those people. Also, embrace working with other professionals. A good, professional vendor makes DJing a lot easier and much more enjoyable.

6. What are your top three most requested songs?
“Party Rock Anthem,” “Cha-Cha Slide” and “Cupid Shuffle” are my most requested songs. I’m guessing those will be replaced by another Top 40 hit in the near future. Nowadays, songs that come out don’t stick around for very long.