Hidden Gems: Meet Jay “DJ AKSHEN” Valdez of Kreative Sound Productions

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay “DJ AKSHEN” Valdez.

Hi Jay “DJ AKSHEN”, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
As a child I was influenced by my parent’s music; Beatles, Disco, and Motown. Then later by my older brother who introduced me to Hip Hop, Funk, Pop, & New Wave, but more importantly DJ culture. I come from the Mobile DJ era of turntables, vinyl records, and milk crates. I started out by DJing my brother’s High School Dances when I was in the 7th grade and did my first club gig before I was even legally allowed in the club. We traveled throughout the city to play High School dances, private events and clubs on the weekends. I consider myself an open format DJ and enjoy playing different styles of music every chance I get.

I was a B-Boy before I became a DJ and fell in love with Hip Hop and the culture the first time I was exposed to it. I experimented with all the elements of Hip Hop from Breakin’ (break dancing), Emceeing (rapping), Graffiti Art, and of course DJing. Because Hip Hop is my foundation, it has allowed me to be extremely versatile in selecting and mixing multiple genres of music successfully. I have been blending different genres in my sets before the term “mash-up” even existed, back then it was just called blending.

After graduating High School I joined the US Army and served my country for four years active duty and four years Reserve. While on active duty I bought a pair of turntables, a mixer and a crate of records from another soldier. If I wasn’t in the field training I would be in my barracks practicing my craft; DJing. I always made time to hone my skills wherever I was; whether I was back home on Leave or in the barracks.

After an honorable discharge from the Army I attended the Academy of Radio and Television, graduated and learned about broadcast radio. Eventually, I began to DJ in clubs again and began to enter and win DJ Competitions. In 1999, I won the Phoenix, AZ. Guitar Center DJ Spin-off and would eventually win it 2 more consecutive times and represent Phoenix, Arizona in the regional’s.

From 1999-2005 I had taught my son Cameron aka DJ Yeah at the time, who was 3 years old in ’99 the basics of scratching. By the time he was 8 yrs old he was asked to showcase at the 2005 DMC World DJ Mixing Finals in London, England. We performed the first Father and Son four turntable DJ Routine and he made history the next day as the youngest DJ to perform a solo set at the DMC world finals. All the teaching and patience paid off. It was a very proud moment for me as a teacher, but more importantly a father.

In 2008 when the markets crashed and the recession hit, my wife encouraged me to pursue DJing Full Time. I started my own company Kreative Development later changed to Kreative Sound Productions in 2012 and I was fortunate enough to obtain DJ work through word of mouth and referrals. Two years later I was chosen to be a “Special Guest DJ” for Disney Cruise Lines. Disney had just built a brand new ship called the Disney Dream and was looking for a few good DJ’s to rotate and entertain the national and international guests on their cruises to the Bahamas. Eventually they built another ship, the Fantasy that would travel to the eastern and western Caribbean. I was also asked to DJ that ship and continue to do so till the pandemic.

In 2012, I became the Director of the DJ Programs at Cyphers The Center For Urban Arts, Arizona’s first Urban Arts center. I became the first instructor for the DJing class for which I created the curriculum. The following year the Phoenix NewTimes awarded Cyphers “Best Place to Learn to DJ” for my Turntableology 101 course that I created and taught there.

In early 2015, I competed and won the Red Bull 3Style World DJ Championship Regional Qualifier. That same year, I represented the Southwest Region in the U.S. Nationals and won again, in my qualifying round. I placed in the top 5 in the finals against some of the best DJs in the nation. What an honor that was! At the end of the year The Phoenix NewTimes awarded me “Best Turntablist” for 2015.

My influence extends far beyond the DJ booth. As a member of the prestigious International Hip Hop Collective Furious Styles Crew, I’ve graced stages around the globe, from London to Barcelona, the Bahamas to Romania.
When I’m not behind the decks, I’m busy fostering the next generation of DJs. In 2024, I was honored to be chosen as an Official Judge for the DMC’s, the world’s oldest and most prestigious DJ competition. This incredible opportunity took me to Paris to judge the world finals.

I also co-founded Fader Manners, a monthly event where aspiring DJs can hone their scratch skills, and I organize the annual AZ DJ Summit, a networking hub for the local DJ community. My passion for education extends even further: I’m an artist-educator and global Hip Hop Ambassador for the U.S. State Department’s Next Level program, sharing my knowledge with students overseas and with organizations like Disney Cruise Lines, the YMCA, and universities across Arizona.

My client list is a testament to my versatility and dedication to using music as a force for good. I’ve worked with corporate giants like Red Bull and Disney to local nonprofits like Crystal Meth Anonymous and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I’ve even spun for the Phoenix Symphony, the Mayor of Tempe, The Legendary Wu-Tang Clan, and Grammy Award winner Young MC, proving that my music can elevate any experience.

I am more than just a DJ; I’m a community leader, an artist educator, and an ambassador for the art of Hip Hop. Wherever I go, I bring not just beats, but a passion for positivity that keeps the crowd moving and the culture thriving.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overcoming the Bumps in the Road

My journey as a DJ has been anything but smooth. It’s been a constant push against a tide of obstacles, ranging from the profound mental and physical toll of the lifestyle to the gnawing self-doubt about the viability of this career. Questions like, “Is this truly worth it?” or “Can DJing actually pay the bills and be sustainable in the long run?” have plagued me for decades, and honestly, they still do.

For instance, there were countless nights playing to an empty room, wondering if I was just wasting my time. I remember one particular gig where I spent hours meticulously preparing a set, only to have a handful of people show up, more interested in their phones than the music. Those moments were incredibly deflating and led to a lot of mental breakdowns, making me question if I should just throw in the towel and pursue a more “stable” path. Physically, the late nights, the constant travel, and the sheer exhaustion of performing can be brutal. There were times I’ve pushed myself to the brink, battling sleep deprivation and the fatigue of back-to-back gigs, just to keep the dream alive.

Despite these struggles, the undeniable beauty lies in my deep-seated love for what I do. It has always been, and will always be, about the music and the incredible connection forged with people who share that passion. Whether it was the intimate setting of a small bar or the electrifying atmosphere of a packed festival, the magic happens when the music is right – because then, people will dance all night.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Kreative Sound Productions: More Than Just Music

Alright, let’s talk about Kreative Sound Productions. As DJ Akshen of the Furious Styles Crew, and with all the hats I wear – from the US State Dept Next Level program to co-founding Fader Manners and the AZ DJ Summit – Kreative Sound Productions is really the core of how I bring all that experience to life.

What should you know? We’re not just about spinning records. We’re a full-service production company that specializes in creating unforgettable sonic experiences. We do everything from DJing events – whether it’s a corporate gig, a wedding, a private party, or a massive festival – to providing professional sound reinforcement and lighting. Think of us as your go-to for ensuring the audio and visual elements of your event are absolutely on point.

What do we specialize in, and what are we known for? Our bread and butter is definitely high-quality audio production and dynamic DJ performances. We’re known for our versatility, whether it’s dropping classic hip-hop, deep house, funk, or global sounds. But it’s more than just knowing how to blend tracks; it’s about reading the crowd, curating the perfect vibe, and making sure the energy is consistently high. We’re also really known for our technical expertise. After decades in this game, we understand sound from the ground up, ensuring crystal-clear audio no matter the venue size.

What sets us apart? It’s that decades-long experience and the genuine passion for the craft. I’ve been doing this for over 30 years, and that deep well of knowledge and the ability to adapt to any situation is something you won’t find everywhere. We don’t just show up and play music; we actively engage with our clients to understand their vision and then execute it flawlessly. Our connection to the global DJ community through programs like Next Level and local initiatives like the AZ DJ Summit also gives us a unique perspective and network. We’re constantly evolving, bringing fresh ideas and cutting-edge techniques to every project. Plus, our commitment to artist education through Fader Manners means we’re not just consumers of the culture, but active contributors to its growth.

Brand-wise, what am I most proud of? I’m incredibly proud of the trust and reputation we’ve built. When people hear “Kreative Sound Productions” or “DJ Akshen,” they know they’re getting professionalism, reliability, and an unparalleled commitment to quality. It’s about delivering a consistent, top-tier experience every single time. We’ve worked hard to earn that respect, and it’s a testament to the dedication of the entire team.

For the readers, what I want you to know about Kreative Sound Productions is this: if you’re looking for someone to just push play, we’re probably not for you. But if you’re looking for a partner who understands the art and science of sound, who will elevate your event, and who lives and breathes music, then we’re your crew. Our offerings go beyond just the music; they include consultation, event planning support, and a commitment to making your vision a reality. Whether it’s a private celebration, a large-scale public event, or you need expert audio consultation, we bring the same level of dedication and expertise. We’re here to create experiences that resonate long after the last song fades.

Got an event coming up, or just curious about how we can help you out?

How do you think about happiness?
The Soul of the DJ: What Truly Makes Me Happy

After three decades behind the decks, traveling the globe, and experiencing more incredible moments than I can count, what truly makes me happy boils down to a few core things that have fueled this wild ride.

First and foremost, it’s the power of music itself. There’s an almost spiritual satisfaction that comes from finding that perfect track, placing it at just the right moment, and watching an entire room connect with it. It’s a language that transcends barriers, and to be the conduit for that is a profound privilege. Whether it’s digging for those forgotten gems or introducing people to something brand new, the hunt for and the sharing of great music brings me immense joy. It’s about the art of the mix, the blend, the journey you take people on. When I see heads nodding, feet moving, and smiles spreading, that’s my ultimate reward.

Then there’s the connection with the crowd. This isn’t just about playing songs; it’s a conversation. It’s reading the energy in the room, understanding the collective vibe, and then responding in real-time. From a small, intimate bar in Bucharest to a massive stage on a Cruise Ship, that feeling of synergy – where the crowd and I are feeding off each other’s energy – is exhilarating. When the music is right, and everyone is lost in that shared moment of joy and movement, that’s pure happiness. It’s the reason I keep showing up, night after night.

Finally, and perhaps most deeply, it’s the ability to inspire and educate through music and culture. Through programs like the US State Department’s Next Level and initiatives like Fader Manners and the AZ DJ Summit, I get to share decades of experience with aspiring artists and connect with diverse communities around the world. Seeing a young DJ “get it,” watching them hone their craft, or witnessing the positive impact of hip-hop culture in underserved communities – that fills me with a different kind of happiness. It’s about giving back to the culture that has given me so much and helping to ensure its legacy continues to thrive.

So, while the road hasn’t always been smooth, these moments of musical transcendence, human connection, and meaningful contribution are what truly make me happy, keeping the passion burning bright after all these years.

Pricing:

• Contact for Pricing

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kreativesound.com and www.djakshen.com
• Instagram: @kreativesoundpro, @djakshen
• Facebook: @KreativeSound, @djakshen
• LinkedIn: @djakshen
• Twitter: @djakshen
• Youtube: @djakshen
• Other: https://linktr.ee/djakshen

Image Credits
DJ Reflekshin, Dan David, Max Turner, B8NKS, Spectaclephoto