Teenage DJ from Bebington sets sights on DJ career

Jul 27 2011 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

A TEENAGE DJ from Bebington has been spinning his way to success in Ibiza.

James Daly, 17, beat off hundreds of hopefuls to compete in the British Student DJ championships in San Antonio Bay.

Although “DJ J Daly” didn’t take the title, he made it through to the final five of the contest at the Kanye Beach resort, competing against the cream of young British dance music talent.

And he says the musical magic of the ‘white isle’ only increased his ambition to become a top DJ.

He said: “I was thrilled to take part in the competition. I met some amazing DJs and was over the moon to make it to the final.

“The experience and exposure has enabled me to show off my skills and has boosted my confidence.

“It was fantastic to be able to perform in front of large crowds and as a result of the competition I have made some great contacts.”

James developed a passion for DJ-ing at the age 13 after discovering the American artist Moby.

Last year he completed an NCFE performance skills qualification.

During the two-year course which he says taught him about technical equipment and “how to put on a good show”, he DJ-ed at youth centres and other local events.

James said: “I bought Moby’s album and became hooked on his music, I love that it is multi-genred and he hasn’t pigeon holed himself into one particular style of music.

“The qualification really helped me on my way. I studied for one day each week and the experience was fantastic, it boosted my ambition and showed me what I wanted to do for a career.”

James is now planning to start producing his own music and flexing his entrepreneurial skills by starting his own record label.