DJ Ziza putting her all into music

Already whetting the appetites of patrons with mixing music, DJ Ziza is a passionate 17-year-old rising sensation, whose current priority is to make her name known in the global music industry.

DJ Ziza, whose given name is Aziza Brownie, is from Montego Bay, St James and has been selecting since last December with the hopes of playing at local events.

"I feel like I am at my best in life when I am playing music. This is something I knew I was going to go into. I have always wanted to be in the music industry. I played the drums when I was around 12 years old, so I already had a feel for how beats go and everything like that. I have been blessed to use professional music equipment whether it is instruments or music producing studios," DJ Ziza told THE STAR. Currently in the 12th grade in school overseas, she said music makes her feel alive.

"I know it does the same for young teenagers like myself. My passion has always been music, whether it is creating music, mixing music or just listening to music. I want to put my all into this. It has the ability to heal or even just allow you to let loose and gratify oneself. I believe music is one of the most powerful sources on our island in the world and such an essential part of our culture," she said.

The young disc jockey added that after many trials and errors throughout the process, she is excited for bookings this summer.

"Any event that comes up, I am going to take it. The first party I played a few weeks ago went well. I was nervous but felt elated once the nerves died down. I put a lot of work into it and it felt good knowing that people are enjoying the music I am playing. I had another event in Kingston which was well received as well. I also do all my school events and socials," DJ Ziza said.

Her favourite disc jockey is Chromatic from whom she gets inspiration. She said that she looks up to him and admires his style of play. She hopes to meet him one day.

"Eventually, I want to start playing outside of the island and play at bigger festivals and parties such as I Love Soca and Sandz festival. After that, I want to become a music producer so this is like a gateway to that," DJ Ziza explained.

The teen had some words of encouragement for anyone who wanted to venture out into music.

"Don't mind what anyone else is saying, just got for it. Don't compare yourself to anyone. That is something I have struggled with in the past. Just take your time, do it on your own and you will get there," she said.

She also launched the Divine Complex Programme at the Barracks Road Primary School a few weeks ago which is geared to inspire young creative minds like herself.

"It is a safe space for youngsters like myself to grow their musical minds and be exposed to a higher level on what music is really about. I plan to expose these children to music courses, workshops, events and so much more to help them get started or even figure out their musical path," she said.