Last week I had the chance to catch up with Hot 97 DJ and Podcast host of "DJnchill," DJ Saige. She had some really good information to share about herself, and what it's like being part of the music industry!

DJ Saige

Welcome DJ Saige, thank you for agreeing to be a part of this!

First and foremost, I want you to introduce yourself, and tell the readers, who you are.

I’m DJ Saige, born and raised in the Lower East Side NYC.

So, when did you start DJing? Who are your influences or what influenced you?

I started DJing 3 years ago, my influences as a DJ are Funk Flex, DJ Khaled, Megan Ryte, and DJ Enuff.

As a DJ, what are currently your main challenges? And what is it about DJing, that makes it interesting for you?

My main challenges as a DJ is being a female in a male-driven industry. I have to go that much harder because I’m in such a male-dominated industry. What makes DJing interesting for me, is being able to control a room with my music. It’s a very empowering feeling, especially when people come up to me during my set complimenting my song choice or telling me that a specific song I played brought them back to a happy moment in their life.

What makes you decide to play a particular record during one of your sets?

What makes me decide to play a particular record during my set is usually depending on the time, the setting, the age of the crowd and overall audience. It's also all about timing.

You recently booked a gig at Rolling Loud, how was that experience? Was is it nerve-racking playing in front of the crowd?

Rolling Loud was one of the best experiences in my career thus far. It was so powerful to be up on such a huge platform and have my voice be heard by that many people. I definitely can see myself in that environment more often. I didn't find it nerve-racking at all, I was anxious in a good way. It was pure happiness and excitement.

What about traditions? What traditions do you practice before DJing in front of an unknown audience?

Before DJing in front of an unknown audience, I will always update my computer with any new music and just go through my music to refresh my memory of specific crates that I create. I’m very specific with making sure my music is organized.

If you had to share a set with another DJ, who would it be?

If I could share a set with another DJ, hands down it would be DJ Khaled. I just love his energy, passion, and everything he has built as a DJ.

How well do you handle song requests? Do you automatically dismiss them?

I usually handle song requests pretty well because I know that feeling of just wanting to hear your favorite song. It can get annoying at times though lol especially when I’m really focused and have the crowd moving and its that one person coming up asking for a song that really makes no sense to the party, but that's just how it goes and I understand that as well.

What sound equipments do you utilize

My equipment that I mainly utilize is CDJ’s + Turntables.

What would your advice be for someone who aspires to DJ?

My advice for someone who aspires to DJ is, go for it! You can do anything you focus and put your mind to. If DJing is a passion of yours and you have a love for music then there is nothing stopping you from learning. One thing that I think is very important as well is to learn how and when DJing first started. Learn the basics before anything. Practice on turntables if you can, and make sure you know the craft and history. Do your homework!

Thank you DJ Saige for your words of wisdom. Make sure you hit that follow button on her Instagram @djsaige!