I was a deejay for 30 years before moving to Ottawa. During those years I played a huge range of gigs : Pow - Wows, Wedding and sports Socials, School Dances and Sock- hops, Family reunions, Birthday Parties, Night clubs, Afternoon Jamborees, Singles Dances and more ...
I have fond memories of various functions ... functions at Fort Gibralter, The Winnipeg Art Gallery, The Hotel Fort Gallery, The Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba's House ... country socials out near Brandon ... school Graduations and barbecues ... many fun and wonderful celebrations.
Some deejays weren't fond of doing weddings, but I didn't mind. They usually involved a room full of love, with toasts and well wishes ... celebrating with friends and family. The spirit at such an event can often be uplifting and joyful.
After moving to Ottawa I explored the possibility of continuing deejaying, but it didn't end up happening. One of the reasons may have been that I really had hoped to find a company that had progressed beyond CDs. I was unsuccessful in my quest, and perhaps it's just as well. While I miss the warm smiles and packed dance floors, I don't miss the late nights ...
During the summer I have been driving with Performer Transportation for a couple of Ottawa's music festivals, and always bring a couple of CDs with me to play in the vehicles. I love when the musicians I am driving around begin to ask about the music I'm playing.
The artists I drive are truly a captive audience, and it's a wonderful opportunity to pick their brains about musical experiences, stories and insights. It's also an opportunity to inspire and entertain.
In a sense I still deejay. My audiences are just much, much smaller. They may be people in my car or the guests at a pot luck dinner.
I can't help but want to share good things ...
