Victor Jao, a DJ and electronic music enthusiast from Cebu, has become one of the city’s most sought-after DJs. His journey, detailed in this exclusive interview, reveals a compelling story of talent, dedication, and the unique Cebu nightlife scene. Learn about his experiences touring with Cookie$, the inspiration behind his career, and his advice for aspiring DJs.
Jao’s passion for Cebu’s nightlife is evident. He describes the city’s focus on fun, fashion, and music; however, he also notes the challenge of captivating the Cebuano audience. His experience touring with Cookie$ showcased Cebuano pride. He infused festivals, clubs, and bars with Bisaya hip-hop, including Cookie$’s viral hit “Bogo.” His early adoption of “Bogo” in Cebu caught Cookie$’s attention, leading to collaborations and joint performances.
Jao’s DJ career began at 16, at the Sinulog Festival. Witnessing Quintino perform ignited his passion. He is entirely self-taught, relying on online resources and mentorship from experienced DJs. He also highlights the unwavering support of his family, crucial to his success.
His remarkable achievements underscore the importance of hard work, dedication, and passion. A key aspect of his success is creating a strong flow in his sets, a storytelling approach that sets him apart from other DJs. His dynamic stage presence further enhances audience engagement.
Jao’s favorite venues in Cebu, known for their exceptional crowds, include Proof, Trademark, Agwa, and Last. His most memorable gig was headlining in Guam in 2018, transforming the club into a festival atmosphere despite a 1 am curfew.
For aspiring DJs, Jao emphasizes utilizing social media, patience, and unwavering passion, urging them to persevere despite setbacks. His own success story includes representing major Philippine brands such as Footlocker and GOMO, proving the value of hard work and dedication.
Success, for Jao, is more than fame and fortune—it’s about authenticity and connecting with the audience. He believes in creating memorable experiences for his listeners.
Five Lessons from #ThatsJaoYouDoIt
- Persistence and hard work are essential for success, particularly in the competitive music industry.
- Passion fuels the drive to overcome challenges and setbacks in a music career.
- Versatility and dynamism in performances enhance audience engagement and maintain high energy.
- Networking and effective social media strategies are vital for aspiring DJs to gain exposure and build a career.
- Authenticity and audience connection are as important as fame and fortune for a successful DJ.
Victor Jao’s future likely involves pushing creative boundaries, exploring new genres, and mentoring the next generation of DJs.
Read also: How to Build a Successful DJ Brand from Scratch?
His talent, dedication, and passion will undoubtedly continue to shape the Cebu and global electronic music scenes.
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