Conversations with Skylan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Skylan

Hi SKYLAN, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been writing songs for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until 2017 that I started producing. I got tired of paying producers to finish my songs, so I decided to learn how to do it myself. At first, my music was pop-focused, but over time, I found myself gravitating toward EDM. I stayed in tropical house for a while, then big room house, and eventually, I discovered my passion for bass music.

I never actually planned to become a DJ. To be honest, I wasn’t a big fan of the culture. But during COVID, I bought myself a beginner DJ deck, the DDJ-400, just to learn a new skill. It quickly turned into something much bigger. By 2022, I was feeling drained and unfulfilled working at a law office, so I made the leap to pursue music full-time.

Breaking into DJing wasn’t easy. I started with a couple of pick-up gigs at a tiki bar in downtown Raleigh, which is ironic because I’m highly allergic to pineapple—I’d leave every night covered in hives. But I needed gigs, and I wanted to do this full-time. I went to just about every bar on Glenwood Avenue and downtown Raleigh trying to book more work, but no one would give me a chance. Most people knew me as a bartender, not a DJ, so they couldn’t see me as anything else.

Eventually, I ran into a friend who happened to be the GM of a new bar/club on Glenwood. I pitched him an idea I knew most DJs in the area wouldn’t even consider—a Taylor Swift-themed dance party. This was right after Taylor announced her Eras Tour, and I knew not everyone would be able to get tickets. I said, ‘It’s basically the new girls’ night,’ and somehow, he went for it.

The promo went out, the day came, and… it flopped. The whole street was dead, and I went home and cried. To make it worse, I found out the GM got in trouble with the owner for approving the theme. I felt defeated and gave up on the idea altogether.

But three weeks later, a group called “22 and Good for You” reached out after seeing the promo and asked if I wanted to DJ a Taylor Swift-themed event for them at a legitimate music venue. Fast forward to today: I’ve DJ’d countless sold out themed events in different cities, including Washington, DC. I’ve played clubs, bars, and opened for major EDM artists. What started as a shot in the dark has turned into something much bigger than I could’ve imagined.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Hahahaha, absolutely not. Anything worth wanting is never a straight shot from point A to point B. Like I mentioned before, getting started is the hardest part. Building a reputation and landing gigs feels impossible at first. It’s this constant catch-22: how am I supposed to gain experience if no one will hire me? I think a lot of people in any industry can relate to that right now. On top of that, there are so many DJs willing to play for next to nothing—or even just a drink tab—just to get their foot in the door, which makes the competition even tougher.

Networking has been another challenge. It feels like everyone is a DJ these days, so figuring out how to set yourself apart from the crowd is a whole task on its own. And then there are the financial barriers. Professional DJ equipment is ridiculously expensive, I’ve played sold out events on my beginner deck because buying a $3,000 professional deck was out of the question.

Of course, there are also the personal struggles. Imposter syndrome is so real. I could honestly go on and on about the challenges, but the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that the road isn’t supposed to be smooth—it’s the bumps and setbacks that push you to grow.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m mostly known for DJing a variety of themed events, specifically at The Pour House in Raleigh. I’ve done Taylor Swift-themed nights, Brat Raves, Chappell Roan/LGBTQ-focused events, Fred Again-inspired nights, Indie Sleaze parties, and more. But beyond that, I’m also known for making music and DJing bass-heavy sets.

What I’m most proud of is staying consistent. Last year, my main focus was making DJing my full-time career, and I’ve achieved that. This year, however, I’m shifting gears to focus more on creating and releasing my own music.

What sets me apart is that I don’t just DJ—I sing, write, and produce my own music. That blend of artistry gives me a unique perspective and creative edge. I also take a lot of pride in curating events that feel safe and welcoming for everyone, no matter who you are. At the end of the day, I want every person who comes to one of my shows to feel like they belong.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Yeah—stop caring what other people think. Seriously. During Covid, I realized that most people aren’t paying nearly as much attention to what you’re doing as you think they are. It was such a freeing realization. Once I stopped worrying about everyone else’s opinions, I gave myself permission to take risks, pursue what I love, and make bold decisions for my career. Life’s too short to let fear of judgment hold you back.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.skylanmusic.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skylan41/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkylanMUSIC
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU8Cg3GMMfGK5SdVkBnq17w
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/skylan-3
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@skylan411?lang=en