Women's History Month : Spinning the Decks of Diversity: A Sit-Down with DJ Afreesha

Spinning the Decks of Diversity: A Sit-Down with DJ Afreesha

Hello, everyone! March is Women's History Month .  The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history. I had  the pleasure of sitting down with the multi-talented DJ Afreesha,  who's not only a maestro on the turntables but also a fashion designer and financial arts consultant. In this blog post, I'll share the rich tapestry of insights from our conversation, which spanned the realms of music, culture, and the heartbeat of Seattle's black music scene.

A Journey Through Time and Tunes

DJ Afreesha took us on a nostalgic trip back to her roots in the '90s, a time when music was as much about the medium as it was the message. She  reminisced about the evolution from records to tapes, CDs, and now USBs, a testament to the ever-changing landscape of how we consume music. Her narrative was a colorful one, painted with the diverse influences of her upbringing. The international music that filled her home, courtesy of her parents, and the eclectic genres her sister introduced her to, all played a role in shaping her unique sound.

The Art of DJing and Community Impact

Our conversation took an inspiring turn as DJ Afreesha recounted her experiences behind the decks. She  highlighted memorable performances, like the electrifying atmosphere at the Madaraka Festival, and her passion for teaching the art of DJing at the Seattle Drum School. What struck me most was her dedication to aligning her work with a mission – the mission to contribute to the community through the power of music.

The Pulse of Black Music in Seattle

Delving into the climate of black music and DJs in Seattle, DJ Afreesha opened up about the challenges and opportunities that come with the territory. For DJs of color in the city, it's about consistency, carving out a unique sound, and meeting the high expectations of diverse audiences. Her insights were a valuable compass for any aspiring DJ looking to navigate the vibrant yet complex landscape of Seattle's music scene.

Breaking Through Creator's Block

Every creative encounters the dreaded block, and DJ Afreesha r is no exception. However, her approach to overcoming it is something we can all learn from. She advocates for staying fluid, experimenting with new things, and doubling down on one's strengths and values. It's about finding that rhythm in the chaos and dancing to the beat of your own drum.

Empowering Female DJs

In an industry that's still male-dominated, DJ Afreesha's advice for female DJs was both empowering and practical. She stressed the importance of self-awareness and the trio of preparedness – mental, spiritual, and emotional. Moreover, she touched on the critical aspect of personal safety, a reminder of the challenges that women often face in the music industry.

A Taste of Africa in Seattle

As our interview wound down, we lightened the mood with a culinary detour. DJ Afreesha shared her  top picks for African restaurants in Seattle, giving us a glimpse into the city's rich culinary scene and his personal favorites that tantalize the taste buds.

In conclusion, my conversation with DJ Afreesha was more than just an interview; it was a masterclass in music, culture, and life. Her story is a reminder that whether you're spinning records or savoring flavors, it's all about embracing diversity and making an impact. Until next time, keep your playlists diverse and your hearts open to the rhythms of the world.

I hope this blog post encapsulates the essence of our enlightening episode with DJ Afreesha. Stay tuned for more stories and insights from the world of music and beyond!

Article by Dubai Denis Maronga