If you’ve been to Jet Lounge, the House of Blues New Orleans’ weekly party hosted by Curren$y and his Jet Life imprint, then you’ve seen DJ Kelly Green in action. She’s one of the city’s busiest DJs and juggles being Jet Life’s official DJ with a slew of appearances at events like Jazz Fest, Rolling Loud, the Do-Over and, on June 8, AbstractNOLA’s AudioVisual party at Tipitina’s.
The Baton Rouge, Louisiana native spoke with OffBeat.com about her origin story, DJ culture in New Orleans and more.
Why did you decide to become a DJ? How did it happen, exactly?
I started playing music (piano) at age six and ultimately ended up playing in the orchestra until I graduated high school. When I was 14 or 15 I realized I really wanted to always have something to do with music but needed a break from all the classical music. My dad had a pair of turntables and one day I just started playing around with them and fell in love. I ended up getting my own pair for my 16th birthday. I’ve been spinning records ever since.
A lot of you know you through your work with Jet Life. How did your relationship with them begin, and what are some of the highlights of your time with them?
I started out DJing for Fiend/International Jones. That led to me doing the car shows at Street Customs and Jet Lounge. My relationship with them has continued to grow since. I now DJ for Jet Life as a whole. I’ve been on two tours with them and countless festivals like Rolling Loud, Chalice, SXSW, etc. My favorite part is touring though. I love getting away from the normal everyday routine and meeting people from other cities. It’s fun, I’m doing what I love, and growing my brand and fan base all in one rip.
Would you say New Orleans is a good city for DJ culture? Why or why not?
New Orleans is a great city for DJ culture simply because it’s such a party hub. It could be better, but that will always be the case anywhere, honestly. There are so many opportunities for different types of DJs to have regular work here. All you have to do is put yourself out there.
How would you describe your approach to DJing, style wise and music wise?
When I DJ, I read the crowd, but I also pepper the mix with my own personal gems. It creates a connection between you and them that they don’t even realize is happening. A lot of gigs I do, I play hip hop/rap, but don’t be surprised if I throw a little funk or house in there depending on how I’m feeling. Good music is good music! I don’t do a lot of tricks, but I’m definitely sweet with my scratch work. Haha!
Who are some of the DJs whose technique inspires you?
Some of my favorite DJs are Raj Smoove, DJ Elle (NYC/MIAMI), and Lissa Monet. I’ve been following Elle and Lissa Monet’s careers since the beginning of mine and was so inspired by their paths that I stayed strong in my own. It’s always nice to have examples that what you’re doing can actually work even when it seems like it isn’t.
Visit Kelly’s official website here. To purchase tickets to see her appearance alongside Nesby Phips, Queen Tahj, Ceaux Young and more at AudioVisual, click here.
