During hip-hop’s golden era, DJs played a pivotal role in fueling the culture. As the preeminent voices of authority, breaking songs and introducing acts to the mainstream, being a DJ demanded far more than spinning vinyl. The position came with a responsibility to preserve the art form, champion great music, and be an advocate for movements that drive the genre forward. As a result, DJs were positioned as the gatekeepers, tastemakers and curators who ultimately set the standard. Read more…

The rapid rise of technology and digital media swiftly shifted the paradigm of modern music, consequently changing the dynamics and influence of being a DJ. As brands began making bigger spends for air space, radio shows became less about setting the trends and more about staying on top of them. DJs who also served as on-air personalities faced sudden restriction, as corporations further shaped what was played and spoken about. Although alternatives like Sirius XM emerged as successful hybrids, merging pirate and mainstream radio, the massive transition proved irreversible. Once a craft trademarked by two turntables, record crates and a microphone now included software, mobile apps and other devices that have made it much easier to be classified as a DJ.

For DJ Carisma, remaining true to her core and operating with a passion to progress the culture is an approach that has given her an unmatched advantage in a seemingly fading profession. Spearheading the resurgence of West Coast rap at Power 106 FM in Los Angeles, Carisma carved out a niche for discovering artists and untapped movements destined for the spotlight. To do so, she had to find unconventional ways of breaking new artists in order to acquire the influence needed to gain creative control. Even after seeing multiple successes, it took consistently taking risks and trusting her instincts to build a track record strong enough to be considered a credible purveyor of taste. Once she achieved such freedom, doors opened for Carisma to truly make her mark as a voice of the people.

Throughout her career, the LA native was instrumental in giving stars like Tinashe, Dj Mustard, YG, Dej Loaf, Ty Dolla $ign, and Tory Lanez a major platform. In a time where West Coast music received very minimal exposure, Carisma spearheaded the Young California movement, which has grown to become a prominent pipeline for showcasing artists on the brink of breaking through. After recently announcing her move to Real 92.3, LA’s leading Hip Hop and R&B station, she’s also brought her Young California imprint to the mainstream.

Winning Female DJ of the Year at the 2015 Global Spin Awards, an honor she’s earned two consecutive years, TIDAL also named Carisma as a key influencer in entertainment. Social media’s most beloved producer turned social media anomaly DJ Khaled ranked her on his list of today’s most important DJs for her notable contributions to music.

Read the rest via Forbes HERE.