Meet Marla Young aka Miss DJ MJ

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marla Young aka Miss DJ MJ.

Marla, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Since I was a kid, I’ve always had a passion for music. I also always knew that I wanted to be great. I admired many family members who pursued their goals and dreams. I also studied a few goal-getters, specifically Michael Jordan and Michael Jackson, which is how I got my DJ name.

Playing instruments as a child helped me to get familiar with music and while I was in college, I was able to land a radio internship at the age of 18 and began my career in the music industry during that time.

With focus and determination I was able to become the first female DJ to have a Radio Mixshow on Power 98.3 and I also eventually became a Music Director for that same radio station.

Has it been a smooth road?
Far from smooth, the journey has been quite the experience. I was fortunate to learn the ropes of gaining respect in a male-dominated industry and I did this by listening, I did it by being vocal on my opinions, and also by being the go-to person to get things done.

Another challenge was really learning to develop myself. Unfortunately, I didn’t learn this until after I exited the radio station after ten years of service and pursued my career even further by moving to New York. It was there that I really dug into my life and began consciously becoming intentional. While in New York, I was able to produce, DJ and Guest host a radio show on Sirius Radio Shade 45.

After moving back home to Phoenix, I wrote a book for musicians who wanted to have their song played on the radio, titled “Ammunition for Radio Submission”. It can be found on Amazon.com.

Currently, I serve as a Financial Representative for Fidelity Investments, after three years of running my own Financial Advisor practice and I also still DJ many events, most recent being NBA All-Star Weekend in Charlotte, NC.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
As a DJ, it’s my goal to touch everyone in the room and to put out happy vibes through music.

I have a unique style of playing to each and every crowd that I perform for. I’m known for the versatility of my music as well as adapting to various crowds and audiences.

I’m most proud of being able to DJ for notable performers such as Taylor Swift and Pitbull to name a few. I’m also thankful that I had the opportunity to DJ nationally on Sirius Radio.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Phoenix is growing really fast. My best recommendation for someone starting out is to make great connections where you can give of your talent and then, in turn, be on the receiving end when opportunities arise.

Contact Info:

• Website: MissDJMJ.com
• Phone: 6027965609
• Email: missdjmj@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/MissDJMJ
• Facebook: Facebook.com/MissDJMJ
• Twitter: Twitter.com/MissDJMJ
• Other: Mixcloud.com/MissDJMJ

Image Credit:
Fernando Hernandez

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.