DJ BIKS | HOW HE MASTERED THE ART OF TURNING HIS PASSION INTO A SUCCESSFUL CAREER

While the journey of self-discovery can be long and full of ups and downs, there are a select few that, through hard work, dedication and a laser focus, seem to find the fastest route there. DJ Biks happens to be one of those few.

After becoming a DJ at the tender age of 18, Biks found himself working hard at his game for the next few years. Having networked and meeting other promoters, he found him surrounded by opportunities and made sure he seized everyone.

Let’s fast forward to 2003. After being booked to play for Jay Sean, they formed a close professional relationship. So much so that Biks became his tour manager. How’s that for progress?

Since then, his popularity grew and he started performing for the likes of high profile celebrities. Highlights of Biks’ 15-year career include performing on the Ellen Show, Michelle Obama’s birthday celebration as well the Jay Leno show. On top of that, he’s opened for Pitbull, John Legend and Kanye West. Luckily for him, his career shows no signs of slowing down.

Of course, how better to know the man behind the name than to ask him some questions directly? So that’s exactly what we did.

WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU CURRENTLY HAVE UNDERWAY?

I’m currently working on my own radio show on Dash and releasing some original music (mainstream). That aside, I’m also working on some new and fresh South Asian music-related projects.

WHAT ARE SOME OBSTACLES THAT YOU FACE IN YOUR JOB?

While being a tour manager and DJ is a fun job, it comes with its own set of challenges. It can be stressful just like any other job.

While there are dozens of things that can (and often do) go wrong, some that come to mind are travel-related issues as well as challenges with stage production. Of course, while I do love working with people, managing people can have their own strains. I’m sure you can understand.

All in all, the advantages heavily outweigh the disadvantages so I’ll move on to the next question :).

WHO ARE YOUR MENTORS AND WHY?

That’s a tricky question. Let me think.

Off the top of my head, I’d say DJ Jazzy Jeff and Bally Sagoo. And the reason? Well, they are pioneers in the DJ space, particularly in the genres of hip hop and Bollywood/Bhangra.

In addition, I am also a fan of most DJ’s at global festivals.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO WANTED TO FOLLOW A SIMILAR PATH AS YOU?

With over a decade of experience under my belt, I have several insights to share:

1. Work on your craft and your network. In my case, that included producing, being a hype man as well as a DJ.
2. Find a mentor to help guide you. I was fortunate enough to have found one early on.
3. Surround yourself with good energy and positivity and the rest will follow.
4. Continuously evolve and from time to time, rebrand yourself. Never get too comfortable.
   In my case, I was always learning new musical styles within the industry.
5. Always make yourself different from the others.

LET’S PLAY A GAME: TELL US 3 TRUTHS AND A LIE

1. I travel a lot (I’ve filled 3 passports to date)
2. As a chubby 3-year-old, I once got stuck in a Burger King high chair
3. I have DJ’d for over 100,000 people
4. I used to look like Uncle Fester from the Adam’s Family.