JUMP268: How did you get into being a disk jockey? Give us a background on the makings of DJ Jime.
DJ JIME: I’ve always been into music…It’s been (steel) pan, piano, since I was younger. I remember when I was around 15 or 16 growing up in Ottos (Antigua), which was a mecca for sound culture. I was surrounded by it and always interested in it. It wasn’t until I went away to university I got my big break and was able to play at parties and understand how to read crowds and that kind of thing.
JUMP268: Tell us about DJ Jime Events and what prompted you to become a promoter.
DJ JIME: DJ Jime Events was formed about 5 years ago. I always had a different outlook on events and vision on how events should be. It’s not a knock against anyone but I have a vision for how I see events are to be done in Antigua. That’s why I created DJ Jime Events…to put my own spin on things and make them fun and more welcoming. It’s not just about making money. It’s about creating a vibe…creating an experience.
JUMP268: What was your first event under DJ Jime Events and how did it honestly turn out?
DJ JIME: My first DJ Jime Event was called Chug It…it had I’d say about 50 people. Safe to say that was a fail. I’ve had multiple fails in events in Antigua. It’s been a learning experience. I’m thankful that things have changed somewhat. I’m happy for that!
JUMP268: Did putting on your own events meet your expectations?
DJ JIME: Putting on my own events exceeds my expectations because it’s given me an avenue to be even more creative and to express myself through how I want my events to be. Even if they don’t make any money and people have fun I’m fine with that ‘cause it’s an avenue where I can bring certain things and certain thoughts to life.
JUMP268: What are the main advantages/disadvantages to putting on your own events versus playing for others?
DJ JIME: The advantage of doing my own events is I can do me. I can be me, be creative…nobody to answer to, nobody to say do this this way or do that that way. I can see what I’d like to do differently. The disadvantage of doing my own event is that I’m always tired, you know? It’s planning and planning and planning…I started planning for my May event in December.
JUMP268: Anything you’d like to add?
DJ JIME: I’m grateful for all the support that I’ve had from Antiguans and Barbudans and people from around the Caribbean. There are lots of people that come to Antigua just for my events and I’m grateful for that level of support.
JUMP268: Before we go, when can people check out your annual events?
DJ JIME: UP May 6, RISE is August 4 and DDF is October 28.
LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW ON JUMP268.COM!
https://soundcloud.com/jump268/sets/dj-jime-jump268-magazine-interview