From Dancer to DJ: How a Glow-in-the-Dark Mask Changed Everything
People would often see me rocking stages with GRAMMY-nominated rapper, FLAME and wonder, “How did that happen?” Truth is, it wasn’t one moment — it was a journey that started years before I ever touched turntables.
From Dancer to DJ
I first met FLAME back in high school. At the time, I wasn’t a DJ — I was a backup dancer for the Christian Hip-Hop duo, Cho’zyn. We also crossed paths at a Bible studies we both attended that was held in the basement of then-Christian Hip-Hop artist Json.
Back then, FLAME only knew me as “the dancer.” Later, he knew I also dabbled in videography. But DJing? That wasn’t even on his radar.
A Surprising Encounter at SXSW
Years later, I was invited to DJ at a showcase during SXSW in Austin. For me, SXSW was the true starting ground — one of the first times I stepped out as a DJ in front of industry crowds. It was also the same season that I created the Lecrae × Beyoncé mashup that launched my DJ career, which opened doors I never could have imagined at the time.
When FLAME saw me there, he was shocked. To him, I was still that dancer from St. Louis. Seeing me behind the turntables at a major festival was the last thing he expected. We chopped it up for a bit, and he mentioned his upcoming Black Out Circuit Tour (with KB, Thi’sl, V. Rose, and others) would be hitting St. Louis soon. He said, “Hope to see you there.”
The Black Out Circuit Tour
When the tour came through St. Louis, I happened to already be booked to film a backstage interview. Once I wrapped up, FLAME casually asked, “You happen to have your DJ equipment with you?”
I did. In fact, I always kept my gear in the car. He told me, since I was looking for more exposure and reps, I could spin while fans entered the venue. Nothing official — just background music while people filed in.
I agreed.
As the doors opened, I set up and started spinning. The crowd vibed casually at first. Then came the moment that changed everything.
The Mask That Sparked the Crowd
That year’s tour had a glow-in-the-dark theme, complete with a fan contest for best outfit. Weeks earlier, I had ordered a sound-reactive illuminated mask, planning to use it for the contest.
Mid-set, I had a crazy idea: What if I wear it now?
I ducked behind the DJ table, pulled the mask out of my bag, and threw it on. When I popped back up, the crowd went wild. Suddenly, people thought the show was starting. I matched their energy — hyping, jumping, throwing my hands up — and the entire room lit up.
What I didn’t realize was that backstage, artists started peeking out to see what the commotion was about. My “casual warm-up” had turned into a full-on spectacle.
The Call That Changed My Life
A week later, I got a call from FLAME’s manager (his wife at the time). She said, “FLAME has a show coming up in Canada and wants to know if you’re interested in DJing for him.”
At the time, I was working at Walmart. I didn’t even check my schedule. My immediate answer was yes. They rushed my passport, booked my flight, and before I knew it, I was stepping into a 16,000+ capacity arena.
The show was incredible. On the flight back, the question came: “What do you think about doing this full time?”
The rest was history.
Lessons I Carry from This Story
Always Stay Ready – I only got the shot because I kept my DJ gear with me.
Small Moments Can Become Big Breaks – What started as background music turned into my launchpad.
Creativity Opens Doors – That illuminated mask wasn’t planned for the set — but it became the spark.
Faith + Preparation = Opportunity – God aligned the moment, but I had to be prepared to step into it. I talk more about how timing plays into purpose in this feature story I shared with VoyageSTL.
Final Thought
When I look back, it’s wild to think how I went from being known as a dancer in St. Louis to DJing arenas with one of the biggest names in Christian Hip-Hop.
The truth is, it wasn’t luck. It was God’s timing, years of preparation, and the courage to say “yes” when the call came.
That’s how I became FLAME’s official DJ.
