DJ Rocklights
Bryan Kimes, aka DJ Rocklights, has been active in the Mid-Atlantic music scene as a DJ, musician, recording artist, and production professional for 20 years (his current band Big Paper Airplanes have just released their debut full-length album). Appearing on MTV in 2009 and BassPlayer magazine in 2010 takes his experience of exposure to your event and provides the music, production, and orchestration to suit every occasion. Featuring all music types, top-rated equipment, aesthetics, punctuality, and professionalism to set your mind at ease. You can focus on creating memories for yourselves and your guests.
Read Rocklights’ blog posts
How often do you get on the mic?
I like to use the mic for announcements that are appropriate to the event, with a tone and energy that applies to the occasion. I like my focus to be on the music and event and not me as a personality.
How long have you been DJing?
Since 1995. I was a club DJ for two years and then found my way to private events. I had a hiatus from 2008-09 to focus on my band but I was glad to return in 2010.
How long have you been DJing weddings?
13 years.
What are some of your all time favorite wedding songs?
Nelly – “Hot in Here”
KC and the Sunshine Band – “Get Down Tonight”
Michael Jackson – “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”
What kind of music do you DJ when you’re not at a wedding?
A mix of all genres, current hits and classic . . .with the surprise “closet classic” [Thanks, 80s-era MTV!]
What is your philosophy on weddings?
Attention to detail. Making sure those details are in place prior to the event and reviewing them with the couple. It’s their night and I’m there to make sure it goes well and everyone has a great time!
What size wedding do you prefer to DJ?
Small and large weddings can both be a lot of fun, but it seems like 150 guests though is a great number for party atmosphere.
What makes you different from your competition?
Responding in a timely manner to the client. That seems to be where much of the competition falls short – you really have to let the client know you’re “all-in” and not leaving them guessing as to your reliability.
What do you do to motivate the crowd if no one is dancing?
Tactfully get some interaction going with the bridal party and family – they can be great motivators to the guests!
What training have you received?
Lots of shadowing with other DJ’s – it’s amazing the skills we can pass on to one another. . and of course working with DJ D-Mac himself!
What problems have you encountered at a wedding and how have you solved it?
I like to have redundancy in my system so I’m covered in terms of equipment faults. Once there was a power issue in the venue, since then I’ve always checked beforehand to make sure the in-house electric can handle the event.
Who are your preferred DJ gear Manufacturers?
Denon mixers and interfaces, Serato software, QSC amsp and Yamaha Speakers
What are your favorite record labels?
Wave Music, Planet E, Hospital Records and Sire
What are some of your preferred clothing labels?
DC, Kenneth Cole, Roxy and Volcom
Where are your favorite DC nightspots?
Lux Lounge and The Opera
What is the best DJ moment of your career (so far)?
A wedding reception at the now defunct Continental Club in the East Village, Manhattan.
What is your favorite live show(s) (strictly as a member of the audience)?
The Killers at Merriweather Post, August 31st 2009
What are some of your favorite restaurants?
The Source and Corduroy
“I can’t hear myself think in here!” Favorite spot for a quiet cocktail?
Russia House
What are your five desert island discs?
Duran Duran “Decade,” The Killers “Hot Fuzz,” Lou Reed “Transformer,” Moby “Play,” U2 “The Unforgettable Fire”
What’s our dream DJ gig?
A fun reception at Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, FL!
