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January 3, 2008 • Thursday
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"Look up in the sky! Is it a bird?! Is it a plane?! No... it’s a ... female DJ?!
So I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to DJ at Niketown at the Caesars Palace Forum Shops for the holiday season of Thanksgiving through New Years Eve. Many stores I know of are now using DJs to help "boost business" by having background music playing for their shoppers.
I was on the 2nd floor of the store with a setup a good friend and I provided, which includes two turntables and a mixer, and speakers. I currently use the program "Serato Scratch Live" so I have a laptop in front of me as well. When people would come up to the 2nd floor I would get mixed reactions, with people pointing fingers, or watching me and commenting like, "Oh, the music is live?", "oh they have a DJ – cool!", etc., etc.. I usually played a 6-hour set three times per weekend.
So this past weekend, as I am DJing, a young guy approaches me, probably in his early 20's. I'm preparing to play the next track when the following incident came up:
Guy: "Can you throw in the next track?"
Me: "Why, you don't think I'm DJing??"
Guy: "No."
To which I literally looked at him and rolled my eyes! What the heck?! Irritated, I threw in the next track while he watched me like a hawk.
Guy: "You're good."
Me: "Thanks. Are you a DJ?"
Guy: "No."
Me: (Silence)
Guy: "Well, I guess they wouldn't have all this stuff up here for nothing".
I wanted to take my laptop and throw at his head. I was disgusted and hurt because this isn't the first time...
Is the world really that shallow and gullible to think that a store would hire a female to "act like she's a DJ"? Are we [women] considered that inferior in our ability to mix two songs together or scratch just because DJing is considered a male-dominated industry? Or is it the laptop in front of me that makes it seem like I'm pretending? Serato Scratch Live has been both a blessing and a curse.
I've literally seen and heard a male DJ play a mix CD in a store, yet no one questions if he can DJ or not. But, if a female is standing behind the DJ booth, her skills are scrutinized and sometimes doubted; some people think it is some "marketing gimmick" or something by that store.
*************************************************************************************
So I guess the question at hand that only female DJs get asked (in one way or another) is:
"Are you really DJing?"
This isn't the first time I've been asked this question – I was even asked this question while spinning regular vinyl! I'm tired of having to prove myself as a DJ. I'm just wondering if any MALE DJs have gotten this question asked of them. If so please let me know; I highly doubt it. But for all the other DJs who deal with this type of situation, just letting you know stuff like this will happen, but remember, don't let it get to you … it's all about the music anyways. J
4:58 AM
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38 Comments - 48 Kudos
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February 7, 2007 • Wednesday
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Winter '07 Interview -- DJ Kriscut featured on Alterasian.com
Click on the banner below to read one of the newest interviews:
4:33 AM
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7 Comments - 9 Kudos
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May 24, 2006 • Wednesday
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"Don't bother me, I'm eating ..." (A DJ story)
Current mood:  contemplative
Here's an e-mail I received the other day about how I came off as a bitch. Here's the original message followed by the response that I sent back to the sender.
I thought I would post this and see if any other DJs relate to me, or, relate to the person who sent this message. I never got a message back from the sender, but I figure he read it. I also told him that this e-mail affected me, so I would blog about it. I think it would be a great way for people to see both sides, and any comments or discussion is welcome. If you read this, I'd like to know what you think...
Thanks :)
----------------- Original Message -----------------
From: -------- (name removed)
Date: May 21, 2006 7:18 PM
I took my little sister to see you scratch a couple of weeks back in Vegas. She was very excited and happy all the way there. You were someone she looked up to.
My sister by the way, is a Cancer Survivor and wannabe DJ. She was just taken off of Chemotherapy 7 weeks prior to our Vegas trip.
To make a long story short. She was walking up to you to tell you how much she loves you and thank you for giving her good tunes to listen to while she was in the hospital.
She came back to me in tears. The reason? Apparently you decided that since this nice looking , unintimidating girl was coming up to you, Surely....SURELY THIS BITCH WANTS A MUSIC REQUEST.
Instead of choosing to think before you speak, before she could even get a word out, you gave a her a dirty look and yelled," I dont take requests!"
That's all. All the time and words you could give my sister was a snotty look and snotty response. When she simply wanted to compliment you.
MY REQUEST is you get a book on manners. You lost 2 fans that night, and will continue to lose many more if you insist on speaking so stupidly before you speak. Thank you for ruining my sisters night. I appreciate it.
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My Response:
I'm not sure if you have the right person or not, because I've been confused with many other local female DJs in Vegas before, and I'd like to know which night and which club you went to.
I respect all requests, whether or not I take them, and I NEVER EVER say, "I don't take requests", because I actually do if the song works with my set and sometimes it may give me ideas. My answer is usually, "It depends on what song". Some DJs dont even take them at all. Plus, I can't say I always look friendly while I'm DJing; many things are going through my mind -- like what song to play next, how much time I have before the song ends and beatmatch. Who knows, I may need a bathroom break and cant take one (lol) -- so anyone coming up to me or any DJ who is working might not be met with a smile.
I want to you to understand it from a DJ's point of view. It is hard for a DJ to stop and socialize while they are mixing and sometimes we just dont want to. I don't know what someone may want from me and I sometimes don't have time to find out. I even scold my friends for trying to talk to me while I'm mixing. Dont get me wrong though; DJs are still curious on what a person might want from him/her.
I only have 2 to 3 minutes to make a decision on what song I have to play next while surrounded by drunken party-goers, people booty-bumping the DJ booth, and thirty song requests. I'm assuming she came up to me on a Friday night, when I'm DJing a 4-hr set by myself NON-STOP and have to endure not only people who come up to me and say they appreciate my music, but also drunk, belligerent people who insist that their song choice will "make the club poppin'" or would get them laid. I've even resorted to having people go to a clipboard and write down their song requests because I get so many, and I even write that theyre not guaranteed.
you gave her a dirty look and yelled," I dont take requests!"
Of course I have to yell sometimes... I have loud music from my monitor and headphones blasting in my ears, as well as around me. Some of us DJs are losing our hearing and are practically becoming half deaf! Who knows, your sister may have been trying to talk to me while I'm mixing in a record. I'm sorry she took it so personal, but... I am working.
MY REQUEST is you get a book on manners.
I apologize if I came off rude and snotty, but many people don't remember a DJ is spinning live. If anyone comes to the DJ booth, for him/her to stop what he/she is doing can affect the outcome of a mix and to think someone may actually be complimenting us or think we're awesome is very, very rare! I don't feel like I am a celebrity and I'm not. If you had messaged me beforehand and told me about your sister, I would have taken the time to meet her on a break or talk to her on a personal level.
You were someone she looked up to.
I would like to meet anyone Ive influenced. I have met a few people during a gig even while I'm deejaying. It was probably just bad timing. I cannot devote my full attention or give any attention at all while I'm working.
You lost 2 fans that night, and will continue to lose many more if you insist on speaking so stupidly before you speak. Thank you for ruining my sisters night. I appreciate it.
I'm blessed to have any fans at all, and its still very humbling. You writing me about this actually shocked me, because I'm very flattered and appreciative that your sister would look up to me. But having fans isn't why I became a DJ. I am a DJ because I love what I do and I love playing music for people, besides my obvious love for music.
My sister by the way, is a Cancer Survivor and wannabe DJ.
One day when your sister is deejaying, by the 100th request I GUARANTEE she will understand. I wish her the best of luck, whether or not she's still a fan. And if she is, I'm still willing to meet her -- while I'm not spinning.
8:04 AM
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66 Comments - 95 Kudos
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February 5, 2006 • Sunday
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Updated:GUESTLIST INFORMATION and FAQ's -- READ HERE FIRST before messaging me about guestlist!
*** FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY!! I decided to make this blog since I get alot of e-mails that ask the same questions about guestlist..
P.S. Don't get mad at me if you don't get in... I'm going to start ignoring messages from those who just send me names with no other information. For FAQ's, see below:
********************************************************************
In general, here is where I'll be DJing weekly:
FRIDAYS @ RISQUE de PARIS, Paris Hotel & Casino
Mention my name to get in FREE by Midnight. Doors open at 11PM.
"La Revolucion" with DJ Dave Guzman in the Main Room; Hip-hop, R&B, old school, and more with DJ KrisCut in the Red Room. 21 and over.
Don't forget to msg me:
1) Names and pluses and e-mail address* for each name. Each name can have a 5 max.
2) Which VENUE
3) Which night/date = ex: Saturday, May 6
*** NOTE: I now require e-mail address(es) for guestlist access. You'll be added to my mailing list.
I do respect everyone's privacy and I will never share your info with anyone.
*****************************************************
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: What days will you be DJing, and where?
A: Check out the calendar I have posted on my myspace page for specific dates since sometimes I may be out of town and might not be able to take care of guestlist.
Q: Is the guestlist free?
A: Yes, until the time specified. If you're not on the guestlist, cover charge is at least $20/person.
Q: What is the dress code?
A: Dressy Casual. Jeans are ok, but no tennis shoes or hats. For guys, please wear a collared shirt.
Q: Who's guestlist do I say I'm on?
A: DJ KrisCut's guestlist.
Q: When should I turn in names?
A: THE WEEK OF that you are coming into town. I don't have time to chart when everyone is coming to Vegas, and sometimes myspace messages get lost, so please make it easy on both of us and send in your names the same week you're coming into town.
Q: How will I know if I'm on your list?
A: I will write you back confirming that you're on the list. IF I DON'T, you're not on. If you're late turning it in, sorry.
Q: Can you help me get into any other clubs besides the ones your work at?
A: NO. I'm not a VIP service; I'm just helping people out to have a good time.
Q: Why do you want my e-mail address?
A: I'm starting a new mailing list for upcoming events, news, etc. I won't spam you or share your information. I promise.
Plus, I think it's fair since I'm hookin' you up right? =)
********************************************************************
Thanks everyone.. hope this was somewhat helpful...
9:07 AM
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1 Comments - 0 Kudos
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April 10, 2006 • Monday
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944 Magazine, Las Vegas Edition, April 2006
Current mood:  accomplished
*** This article is in the April issue of 944, Las Vegas. You can also pick up a copy of the magazine at most nightclubs/select hotspots in Vegas. Thanks to Ryan Orr for a great article and Shane O'Neill for the great photo!
ALL THE REAL GIRLS
KRISCUT AND L1 SHOW LADY DJS HOW TO DO IT FOR THEMSELVES
By Ryan Orr
April 4, 2006
Im sitting at a small table at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf inside the Aladdin, wondering why DJ Kriscut picked this venue for our interview. Weve never met, although I have heard her set at Voodoo Lounge at Rio where she spins Thursday nights with sister-resident, L1. I'm thinking shes running late. There is an attractive Asian girl sitting at a nearby table with what I assume is her boyfriend. I dont assume she is my interview subject; they both have ash on their foreheads, reminding me its Ash Wednesday. But then she approaches my table and introduces herself and it is Kriscut. My bad for assuming a Las Vegas DJ cant be a good Catholic girl. Kriscut, known to her family as Christine Blanco, has been involved in music all of her life. The 27-year-old DJ hails from the LA area where she sang with a group called The Black Pearls while attending California Polytechnic, Pomona. After graduation, she moved to Vegas with her boyfriend and current PURE resident DJ Slip, who taught her the fundamentals of spinning. Her first actual experience playing to a crowd happened at a Hollywood club after a few drinks fueled her courage. She says the owners immediately wanted to book her. "I didnt even now how to mix yet," she says. It didn't take her long to master the craft, and after only four years behind the decks, she now holds residencies at Voodoo Lounge, Club Rio and Risque. Her chosen genre is hip-hop and R&B. "I play what I would want to hear if I was out on the dance floor," she explains. Its a philosophy she shares with her Thursday night co-resident, L1. I meet Lisa Mamalias over sushi five days later; she shows up at Green Valley Ranch's Sushi Sake tastefully dressed in a business suit. Although Vegas is L1's current residence, she still calls Hawaii home. The 32-year-old former model received her masters in multicultural education from the University of Hawaii. She started posing in front of the camera to pay her for books and ended up with two National Hawaiian Tropic titles and multiple magazine appearances. In Hawaii, she often found herself rooming with emcees and DJs, exposing her to tons music and inspiring her to buy her own turntables. She began spinning in 2000, driven by her passion for hip-hop, rather than her ego. Her commitment is symbolized by the tattoo on her lower back that reads "Turntablism". A more visible one on her wrist honors her favorite turntables: "Technics". L1 attributes a lot of her success to DJ Justin Hoffman, who spent hours schooling her on spinning. "When I left Hawaii, I was in elementary school as far as DJing goes," she says. "Now I'm in intermediate school." Kriscut and L1 cite each other as their current favorite DJs, but they make it clear that the biggest thing they have in common is their love for music and a disdain for the female DJs who get into the business for other reasons. L1 calls it the "female DJ phenomenon", wherein women with little skill behind the DJ booth become successful based on their sex appeal. "[Kriscut and I] are old school," says L1, "We've paid our dues." The irony is that both L1 and Kriscut are strikingly beautiful, but neither lady uses her physical gifts to get ahead in the world of DJing. "I am not trying to scare girls away from doing it, I just want them to be doing it for the right reasons," says L1, who is also a resident at House of Blues on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. L1 even turned down an opportunity to tour with Playboy Playmate Colleen Shannon. "I dont want to take that angle," she continues. "It would be embarrassing for me if I was wearing bunny ears or something." Kriscut concurs. "I just keep it about the music; if anyone ever asked me to DJ in a bra I would never do it," she says adamantly. Both she and L1 say they had to fight hard for respect in the male-dominated DJ world. "I'm not going to knock them all," Kriscut says of the ladies who are breaking into the business strictly based on their looks. "Some of them are good. There are just a few that its just because theyre pretty and branded by Playboy and they get insane amounts [of cash], like 10 times what I get. I work hard to get my name out there. If it happens to me its because I did something right, or its because of my integrity." I finally see the girls together at a photo shoot several days later and witness firsthand the combined energy that makes them a force to be reckoned with on Thursday nights. Waiting for the shoot on a cold evening, we crowd into my car and turn on the heater. When they hop in the back together, the chemistry really comes through in their conversation. They laugh and joke and seem comfortable in each others presence. In the end, they prefer to be photographed in their street clothes. "I like our style right now because its real, and were not dressed like slutty hoes," jokes L1. Or maybe shes not joking at all. Catch Kriscut and L1 Thursday nights at the Rio's Voodoo Lounge,
www.riovegasnights.com
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[View the original article and others at 944.com/lasvegas]
4:20 AM
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14 Comments - 23 Kudos
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March 22, 2006 • Wednesday
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So you think you're better... who cares??
I just needed to rant a little and get some of this out for those who are interested in reading what I go through as a female DJ (enjoy the read, it's a long one lol):
[beginning of rant lol]
-------------------------------------------
So I've posted a few samples on my page. Thanks to everyone who's been saying, "Hey, nice cuts" or "cool scratching"! I appreciate the kind comments, but what's funny is people who hit me up with messages like:
"I bet I can scratch better than you, I'll battle you any day!"
I'm sure you can, kudos to you! lol I never put out a challenge to battle anyone, did I? Nor do I claim to be the best female turntablist. I just put samples up so people can have something to hear and have an idea of what type of music I play.
There will always be someone better than you out there, no matter how good you think you are or really are. So what are you trying to prove? Those same people who say crap like that are the ones who complain about "DJ so-so" being so horrible that they should have the gig instead, but never get anywhere because they're too full of themselves. There's more to being a [successful] DJ than being able to scratch better than someone else.
The best DJs that I know of are also the most humble and feel no need to show-off, but when the time comes, they'll blow your mind with their skills.
Better to be underestimated than seem cocky.
"You're scratching's nothing special.. basic stuff... check out so and so"
Thanks for the suggestion; but again, I never said I was sooo awesome or better than anyone else.
I'm still practicing, and will always be learning and working on getting better. But I'm proud of what I can do as a DJ and focus on that instead of showing off, or misrepresenting myself by putting ridiculously complicated scratches that I might not be able to duplicate again (unless I'm having a good practice session LOL). I'd like to keep it real. What you hear is what you get.
-------------------------------------------------
Then while at a club in Seattle on Saturday, some stupid guy was harrassing me, making stupid requests, wasting my time, and telling me to just throw certain songs in. I needed to get back to work, since I only had 2 minutes til the song was going to end. Then before he left, he said:
Stupid Guy: "Do you scratch?"
Me: "Yes."
Stupid Guy: "Are you any good?"
Me. "I'm OK at it."
Stupid Guy: "AHAHAHAHA..."
And he straight up laughed in my face with one of those Santa-Claus-type belly laughs, like he was mocking me! What am I supposed to say, "I'm the sh_t!" and then go off scratching like a crazed maniac? I wanted to throw my shoe at him, but decided not to, because it wasn't worth it. lol I didn't see him up there DJing for a crowd.
Why do some a__holes feel the need to be-little someone? And do I always have to prove myself when someone like that comes up to me? Doesn't it already prove something that I'm there DJing?? Sometimes I feel like people think they can approach me and push me around because I'm a female DJ. They'd never do that to a guy DJ. Whatever.
[end of ranting lol]
--------------------------------------------
Ok, I know I'm extremely blessed to be doing what I'm doing, and have learned alot of things along the way. Being a working nightclub DJ is a great privilege, especially being a female DJ. I'm sure I'll get more of these types of messages and stupid a__holes trying to test me. I admit, it gets irritating, but I laugh it off in the end (and posting it makes me feel better).
So for all the haters, go ahead, keep it coming, because you're only making me work harder.
10:14 AM
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45 Comments - 76 Kudos
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February 24, 2006 • Friday
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DJ Trading Card in the Las Vegas Weekly (2/23/06)
Every week the Las Vegas weekly features a local Las Vegas DJ in their Nightlife section as a "collectible DJ Trading Card". You can pick up a LV Weekly at many different restaurants, bars, etc. around the Vegas area, or just go to their site at http://www.lasvegasweekly.com.
The original link for card at a good resolution is at http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/2006/02/23/hotspots.html, but if the link stops working, you can click on under my photos in myspace to see the card.
7:06 PM
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6 Comments - 13 Kudos
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December 27, 2005 • Tuesday
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Where I will be DJing NYE Weekend, 2006 (Thurs, Fri, & Sat)
This year I will be DJing in Las Vegas on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (NYE) ... yay! 
THURSDAY, DEC. 29th @ VOODOO LOUNGE
Msg me with names and pluses by 8PM Thursday to get in FREE at the Voodoo Lounge. Doors open at 10PM. See the strip from the best view in town.
Hip-hop, R&B, old school, and more by DJ KrisCut and DJ L-1 and House music with DJ Joey Mazzola! 21+
FRIDAY, DEC. 30th @ CLUB RIO
Msg me with names and pluses by 8PM Friday to get in FREE at Club Rio. Large dance floor with great sound system. Doors open at 11PM.
Hip-hop, R&B, old school, and more with DJ KrisCut and DJ Ikon! 21+
SATURDAY, DEC 31st @ VOODOO LOUNGE
Unfortunately there is NO GUESTLIST for this event. Tickets will be $125. I'm not sure if there will be open bar or not, but I will post when I find out, but if you would like to see the CENTER of where all the fireworks will be and have the best view of all the fireworks going off in Vegas at the same time, this would be the place to be.
Music by DJ KrisCut and DJ DaveDogg outdoors; band indoors. 21+
For more info on what else is going on NYE 2006 in Vegas, check out Napkinnights.com
11:22 PM
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2 Comments - 0 Kudos
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August 9, 2005 • Tuesday
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What about your friends? (dedication)
Current mood:  thankful
I was playing around with Photoshop and decided to make a collage, like one of those posters people used to make back in the days of all their friends by cutting up pictures (which, by the way, is soooo much easier lol)... I ran into lots of great pictures with friends that reminded me of many fun times!
And it just made me think...
The older you get you realize that you've met a lot of great people who've meant (and still mean) alot to you, and you may not always keep in touch with them; but knowing that your paths crossed ... reminds you how blessed and lucky you really are.
I know that some of my other friends or past friends may see this and think, "aw man, my picture isn't up there... she's forgotten about me" -- but that's not true. There are so many people I hold dear to my heart... I just wanted to make this dedication to let all my friends know how much I really do appreciate them, even if we've lost touch.
So again, to all of my great friends... I love you. Thanks for making my life worth all the while.
2:13 AM
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12 Comments - 20 Kudos
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May 31, 2005 • Tuesday
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Updated: Have you ever gotten fired? Or did you quit? My latest experience ...
Current mood:  infuriated
Update 6/15/05: Thanks to everyone for your responses; I've gottten some good and some bad, but all in all this was a great learning experience and having people read what you go through and then give feedback, advice or support, really helps a person grow -- and it's really helped me to grow as an artist.
Some of you may or may not know, but he [for those of you who know who I was talking about] is also on myspace and had read what I posted (which I thought might happen anyways), then e-mailed some of his staff and friends to "defend" him, fueling the fire even more -- regardless of attacks at my DJ skills or me as a person by his colleagues (some people who didn't even know me at all or interact with me), it was still clear that the blog's focus was on a mistake that shouldn't have been made. To be fair of course I even posted his reply to what I wrote so everyone can read both sides. So, the whole blog got a bit out of control for a while ... but since then he apologized about the whole blog situation.
That's why I've decided to change all the information on this blog, simplify it, and not have a specific name or point out a specific venue. I have saved the original blog with all the original responses, but have taken out any info and posts that refer to which venue this occurred at and who this person is for everyone else here on out to see. I apologize if your post got deleted; please feel free to repost your comments again if you like though ...
Many of my friends know how much of an emotional and outspoken person I can be, yet I am very easygoing; I'm not quick to anger and usually let things slide. Things have to build up to a certain point before I become angry about someone or something and throughout my life I have learned that sometimes you have to stand up for yourself and what you believe, or else people will walk all over you. This definitely applies in the nightclub industry in my eyes -- I already feel that I have to work twice as hard because I'm a female in a male dominated profession.
Lots of people say things happen for a reason, and this bad turn of events has actually become a blessing in disguise. I am now DJing where I am happier and have a more personal relationship and better communication with the managers. I still miss many of my other great friends I've made at the other venue, but I'm sure we will all bump into each other because Vegas is a still a small city. Many people still ask me about going to the venue and when I'm DJing, but I just tell them I'm no longer DJing there and have moved on.
Angry as I was at the whole situation, I hold no grudges and wish the best professionally for him, the venue, and its staff.
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I was very angry about an event that happened and posted about it in detail here on MY myspace blog, and the following is just edited with the facts.
I was scheduled to DJ at a venue on one of the busiest weekends of the year. Then, when I showed up to work with all my records, I was told that I wouldn't be DJing and they failed to let me know. Well, that's fine, but then I had sacrificed other gigs just to DJ there because I was already scheduled and booked as a resident DJ.
So, of course, I was aggravated and wanted to get compensated for at least showing up (and showing up on time). The person who was in charge of the DJs replied with "I don't like your attitude" and then threatened me with the phrase "this could be your last night if you want".
Disturbed, I turned to the staff and yelled my final goodbye, walked away, got in my car and left. I was put in a situation where I felt I had to quit -- a comment like that makes someone assume they're about to be fired ... but because HE made a mistake?!
I don't think I was wrong to be upset. If you are a DJ, musician, or artist, and a promoter/club manager was not courteous enough to let you know if you are or aren't playing, wouldn't you be upset as well? Now, imagine if I was a well-known DJ... would he have treated me the same way he did? Actually, he probably wouldn't have made the mistake of NOT calling me to let me know as soon as he found out.
Do you think I was wrong? When propositioned to quit on a mistake by management, what would you have done?
6:13 AM
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38 Comments - 44 Kudos
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