By Tayler Nowak
Have you ever been to Brick Street and wondered who's playing your favorite songs? Whether you’re at a local bar in Oxford or a high-end bar in Columbus, there’s always a DJ behind the booth, curating mixes to match the crowd’s energy. Some might wonder: what’s the difference between having a playlist and a live DJ? Just Kian, a DJ you may have seen at Brick Street, shares his journey of nearly seven years, along with advice for aspiring DJs.
How Just Kian Began
Just Kian’s passion for DJing began in 2017, when friends introduced him to a well-known DJ at a Columbus club. Inspired, he bought a Numark Platinum and practiced mixing songs on it. Six months later, he played his first gig at a fraternity event. Though it didn’t go as well as he’d hoped, Just Kian says, “If you’re serious about DJing, you’re going to make mistakes. It takes time to feel like you’re in control of the music and reading the crowd.” It wasn’t until Halloween 2019 when Just Kian got his ‘real shot’ to DJ at a club and actually felt like he made it as a DJ.
Where Should You Begin?
Many people may feel intimidated by the initial investment in DJ equipment. Just Kian suggests starting with a DDJ 500 or a Numark Platinum, as both are accessible options for beginners. “Take your time, learn the craft, don’t get overeager,” he advises aspiring DJs. He emphasizes that while it takes months, or even years, of practice to land a bar or club gig, the effort is worth it if you’re passionate. Just Kian got a lucky break by opening for DJ Anto, an experience that taught him how to energize the crowd before the night truly began. “Experience and learning from it is everything in this industry,” he says.
Brick Street
Through connections with DJ Anto, Just Kian eventually secured a spot at Brick Street and has been a resident DJ there for two years. This Halloween, he performed at Brick Street dressed as the artist Marshmello. When asked why he enjoys playing at Brick Street, he says, “The freedom you get—like the venue and the ability to play whatever songs I want—makes it feel like it’s my own show. It’s a whole different atmosphere, going on stage and feeling like I am a top-10 artist.”
For those hoping to DJ at a venue like Brick Street, Just Kian offers some practical advice. “Learn the basics, stay focused, don’t get overeager. There’s a lot stacked against you when you’re playing a venue like Brick Street. Know your music library and what your capabilities are when DJing.” He notes that it only takes one good set or a memorable transition for a manager to notice you. However, he’s also candid about the downsides of DJing: “You’ll mostly work on weekends, which means missing out on things like hanging out with friends, weddings, birthdays, and other events.” Despite the sacrifices, Just Kian encourages those passionate about DJing to keep learning and honing their skills.
Just Kian says his main inspiration is artist Steve Aoki, admiring how Aoki has steered clear of drugs and alcohol while forging his own path away from family expectations. “Aoki shows that you can succeed by staying true to yourself,” Just Kian says. For those in love with music and wanting to become DJs, he advises, “Don’t give up on your dreams and passions. Keep working towards it.” And fans don’t have to wait long to see him in action—Just Kian’s next performance at Brick Street is scheduled for Nov. 23.
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