DJ Aktive went from spinning at his hometown’s radio station to touring the world with some of hip-hop’s biggest names, including Kanye West, Nas, Common, John Legend and the Roots. But the master turntablist says his current gig as the official DJ of Janet Jackson’s “State of the World Tour” is his favorite of them all.
We recently spoke with DJ Aktive to learn more about his career and why touring with Jackson has left such an impression.
Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper: You have toured the world with some of hip-hop’s biggest names. How did you get your start?
DJ Aktive: I started in Philadelphia doing DJ battles as a teenager, and I later started doing radio in Philly. The man who is now my manager actually heard me on the radio spinning and asked me to get down with Musiq Soulchild. That was the first tour I did, and it was in the year 2000.
Working with celebrities, I’m sure you have seen a lot. What has been the most memorial experience you have had on tour?
The most memorable experience. Wow, there are a lot of them. I mean, currently I’m with Janet Jackson, and I never thought I’d be spinning for an icon such as herself, so that was a blessing. Also, I’m a big fan of Nas, he is like my favorite rapper, so touring with him, that was big for me as well.
I read that Janet has been your favorite artist to work with. Why is that?
It’s because of her work ethic. To see her rehearse every day at the age that she is, it’s just like, wow. She is nonstop, and I hope my work ethic is like that when I get to be her age. Beyond that, she is a nice person and so genuine.
What can people who come out to Janet’s show expect to take away from the experience?
A lot of excitement, dancing and all of her hits. It is a very exciting show with good music and great energy. It is a lot of nonstop dancing.
Do you have any advice for aspiring DJs who hope to achieve the same type of success you have found?
My advice to kids who want to be DJs is to practice your craft. If you want to be a tour DJ or a club DJ, you have to know all genres of music and have a good attitude. Attitude is key. Practice, learn and have a good attitude, and I think you should be good in the music industry.
Janet Jackson’s “State of the World Tour” will come to Bankers Life Fieldhouse at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 26. Tickets start at $24 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
