We had the good fortune of connecting with Jatayvia Whitaker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jatayvia, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a career in Dj’ing because music has always had a strong presence in my life. From playing the piano to dancing, I always had an ear for music. Once I saw the way a DJ commanded the room, I knew I had to learn. I always love to see people smile and feel good and becoming a DJ helped me accomplish that in another avenue of my life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being a DJ in Dallas is already hard, but transitioning from a bottle girl to a DJ has been extremely difficult. The most challenging thing I have encountered is people not taking me serious. I have DJ’d at some of the same places I have waitressed at and it is very hard for people to look at me as the person who is producing the vibes. I have learned that I have to stand out as a female DJ as well. I spent hours practicing before I even started accepting gigs. I am a self taught DJ and youtube university taught me a lot. I want the world to know that you can do everything. You are not restricted to one talent. You can do anything and as many things as your heart desires, there is no limit to greatness.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to get some great tex-mex food for queso and maragritas. I would then find one of the many amazing bars here and chill there and watch our Cowboys play on Sunday.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank DJ Fred & DJ Deuce for showing me the way. When i randomly wanted to learn how to DJ and change my career path from a waitress & bottle girl to a DJ, they were there every step of the way. I also want to thanks DJ Tkeys, my bestie Jamia and my homegirl Ari. They always are down to support my DJ career.

Instagram: @jay_thediamondd

Twitter: @jay_thediamondd

Facebook: Jatayvia Whitaker

Other: Tik Tok – @jay_thediamondd

Image Credits
@djdoesitall

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.