The music scene in the Cayman Islands is teeming with some of the best DJs in the Caribbean and DJ OJ is no exception.
His musical journey started not long ago in the neighbouring island of Jamaica, where he began honing his skills on the sound systems that have become so affectionately a part of the folklore and romance that surrounds music in the Caribbean.
From early on OJ says he was called to music and the pull of sound influenced him greatly.
“There is so much about music that I like. It gives you peace of mind. If you are down, and you hear music it can pick you up. It settles you and builds you at the same time,” he gleams.
Only 26-years-old, DJ OJ or Omar Jackson, as he is known by close family and friends, is making his impact felt in the Cayman Islands. He started out as the resident DJ at the Margaritaville, where he was also an MC. The gig came as a result of the skills he showcased in his prior job working at the Margaritaville on the North Coast of Jamaica.
The DJ has since moved on from his residency at the Margaritaville and is now a full time member of Unity Entertainment; a coop of DJs that work under the umbrella of veteran Caymanian Disc Jockey DJ Flex.
One of the most memorable experiences Jackson says he has had while playing music in Cayman thus far, is an incident that took place in the Jet Night Club, in which the lights went out.
“The vibes and the energy were so strong that even when the lights went out, no one left the club and they were there just waiting to hear more music. It was just one of those moments when you feel a special spirit and the love is alive. I keep that one in my mind.”
DJ OJ points out that it has become a natural progression for most DJs in the business to become producers and as a result of the intimate observation and subsequent knowledge that is gained by years of being the puppet master at a party, the music that is by made such individuals tends to inherently follow a strategy for success in dance halls and clubs.
“I’d eventually like to become a producer. I see that as the fulfilment of the discipline of DJ’ing and it’s a natural progression. It is a natural form of growth and the joy of bringing new artists forward in innovative ways awaits all who begin the journey and want to develop their relationship with their audience to its highest expression.”
The DJ says, “I would like everyone to know that music is love and that is all I am bringing. I want to do that to the best of my ability.”
Catch DJ OJ playing at Rooftop Bar & Lounge every weekend, Friday for Happy Hour and Saturday for a 70’s and 80’s party. For bookings please contact Unity Entertainment at 926-1484. WH