Famous DJs Who Changed the Music Scene

Music is a vast and varied tonal tapestry spanning the breadth of human history, adding a mystical depth and richness to the human experience. German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once said, “Without music, life would be a mistake.” The quote rings true, as the evolution of music throughout history has left joy, courage, endurance and limit-shattering human progress in its wake. Last month, we explored the origins, past and present of DJ in The History of DJ: From Vinyl to Digital. Today we’ll pay closer attention to some of the most famous virtuosos to shape the face of the music scene.  

Grandmaster Flash

Joseph Robert Saddler, stage name Grandmaster Flash, laid the foundations of hip hop with his revolutionary DJing in the 1970s. He coined industry-defining techniques like scratching, punch-phrasing and backspinning, leaving an indelible mark and earning a spot in the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

Larry Levan

From his percussive pulpit at New York City’s Paradise Garage, Larry Levan pioneered a fusion of house music, disco and soul to forever change the face of the NYC club scene and reach the status of legend in New York City house music. 

Tiësto

Forever honored with the title “Godfather of EDM,” Tiësto raised electronic dance music up from the dungeons of the lesser-known to become a worldwide phenomenon never to be forgotten. 

Frankie Knuckles

If Tiësto is the Godfather of EDM, then Frankie Knuckles is the Godfather of House Music. The beating heart of Chicago house, Frankie brought astonishing, game-changing mixes and remixes from the streets of Chi-town and shared them like a love letter to the entire world. 

Deadmau5

Deadmau5 forever changed the face of DJ with the sheer spectacle of his performances. From an unforgettable mouse helmet to mind bending visuals, his production levels were simply second to none. 

A Fresh Face on the DJ Music Scene

Though the list of trailblazing DJs goes on to include legendary figures like David Guetta, Carl Cox, Skrillex, Armin Van Buuren and Calvin Harris, let’s wrap up today’s blog by taking a closer look at what the DJ industry can do for you. 

To keep your wedding, bar mitzvah or other party crowd pumped, why not stand on the shoulders of giants and hire a DJ who’s on the pulse of today’s music scene? DJ KMBRK knows what made the legends great, and he’ll harness that greatness to help power your next gathering. Book DJ KMBRK today!