DJ Royale, has proven that he’s a man of many talents. He’s DJ in our hometown of Philadelphia and an overall well-rounded entertainer. DJ Royale’s parties bring various crowds of people together and he always sets a great mood for the night with the tunes that come out of those speakers.  We at THE949STYLEGUIDE wanted to interview him because of his style.

DJ ROYALE

DJ Royale’s name always intrigued me and when I found out it came from one of my favorite movies, “Pulp Fiction” I liked it even more. Jordan is ¼ African American. During his freshman year of college his friends started calling him “Royale with Cheese” referencing the movie. (In “Pulp Fiction” John Travolta explains how ¼ pounder with cheese is called a Royale with Cheese in France due to the metric system) The rest was history.

 

Exclusive Interview

The 949: So when did the madness start? How did you start djing?

DJ Royale: When I was a young teenager I was into breakdancing and that whole scene. I had expressed interest to my older cousin about DJing and he told me he had turntables in storage he wasn’t using. When I was 14 he brought them over along with a crate of 20 records to start (Tribe Called Quest, Public Enemy, De La Soul, etc). I bought a $60 mixer and got some cheap stereo equipment and set up shop in my bedroom. From there I would just buy records I liked which were mostly hip hop records and practice for hours. It wasn’t until college that I started buying commercial records and spinning house & fraternity parties. That soon led to bar gigs in the city and learning how to play for a commercial crowd. I was extremely fortunate enough to spin at various bars & clubs in Rome when I studied abroad my Junior year of college. Right before I returned to the states I got to open for Jazzy Jeff at The Piper Club and that really was a monumental moment for me. When I returned home I knew DJing would no longer be a hobby but would become a career and way of life.

 

The 949: How does it feel to be one of the most demanded DJs taking over Philadelphia, Atlantic City and New York?

DJ Royale: No matter what profession you choose to dedicate yourself to, there’s no better feeling than people recognizing your skill and passion for the work that you do.  I have been DJing for 11 years and have only been pursuing it professionally for the past 5 years now. I am very honored and humbled to be considered one of the most sought after DJs in our region considering the pool of talent to choose from. I still consider myself new in the game next to guys who have been doing this for 20 years.

 

The 949: What’s the hardest part of traveling so much?

DJ Royale: It can become tiresome but I don’t think it’s half as bad as having to commute to a day job an hour each way. Since I’m always on a train, plane, bus, taxi, etc, it allows me to get work done while I’m traveling.

 

The 949: So how many weekends of the year do you actually have off?

DJ Royale: Not many at all and usually the ones I do have off I’m out supporting other people’s events. I might take off 2 weekends a year for vacation purposes or to see the family.

 

The 949: Can you break down the Philadelphia’s Music Scene for us? How is it different from the other cities you DJ in?

DJ Royale: First and foremost Philadelphians are the most critical people on all levels, but especially when it comes to any form of entertainment. They’ll let you know if you suck. However, if you get to learn the people and the music scene you can be one of the best musicians, DJs, producers, etc in the country if not the world. Philly has a little bit of everything from Hip Hop, to Rock and House. The electronic music scene is definitely making a strong come back in Philly which can be heard in the commercial clubs as well as the various warehouse parties and raves being thrown in places like North & South Philly, Fishtown, and anywhere someone can find space to do so.

 

The 949: Do you see music like fashion as a universal language?

DJ Royale: Definitely. Music and fashion are similar in that they allow people to express their own individuality and find other people with the same interests.

 

The 949: How do you think music and fashion come together?

DJ Royale: Although there are many common stereotypes when it comes to things like music and fashion (cowboy hat means you like country music & hip hop music means you wear baggy jeans) there are no restrictions or rules to who can create, like, wear, listen, and indulge in these culture categories. Music and fashion are forever changing and constantly find new cultural relevance.

 

The 949: What does “style” mean to you?

DJ Royale: Style is being individualistic in whatever it is that you do in life. People enjoy stories and those stories have characters. Every character must have their own style in order to be interesting and unique. Whatever style you choose will effect your story.

The 949: How would you describe your personal style?

DJ Royale: I’ve always been a bit hard to nail down on any one style. I’m influenced by various people in music, fashion, film, art, and history that I change over time. Overall though I like to look cool and comfortable without trying too hard. Although when I have a big gig I like to dress accordingly. I’ve really been into the late 50’s early 60’s contemporary look, hence why I like rocking bow ties and skinny ties. Not too mention there are very few guys if any that I know that like to wear a bow tie. I think my generation still associates that look with old professors or something.

 

The 949: What is one item in your closet you cant live without?

DJ Royale: This was hard for me but I’m going to say my navy peacoat from Club Monaco. Its classic and professional and it looks good with everything.  I also can’t forget about my favorite t-shirts from Duke & Winston, as I do like to wear them a lot!

 

The 949: If we were to set up a photoshoot especially for you, with a theme that would  describe your personality what would it be?

DJ Royale: I love the fall season with a passion. To me it has always felt more like the beginning of a new year than January does. Most likely because I still associate it with everyone coming back from vacation, the start of school, the comfortable weather, and the changing the of the leaves. That being said I’d definitely dig doing a shoot on a University campus with a bunch of colorful trees in the background.

 

The 949: Where do you find your fashion inspiration?

DJ Royale: I know this sounds like an easy answer but I do like to read GQ magazine. My father got me into it when I was 17. Usually I just go and browse in stores that I like in the city. Club Monaco & Brooklyn Industries are some of my favorites in Philly. If we’re talking kicks then you have to go to Ubiq, even though they never have my size.

 

The 949: We have to go back to ties and bow ties! How did you manage to jump on that 50’s trend?

DJ Royale: I started watching Mad Men when it first came out 4 years ago and I’m thinking that could have something to do with it. There’s something nostalgic and very American about that time for me even though it was 30 years prior to my birth haha.

 

The 949: What is the past trend you hope will come back?

DJ Royale: Not sure but I love High Top Sneakers, for girls and guys. The ones that look like they’re from the mid 80’s.

 

The 949: If I’m up for adding another day to my weekend I love stopping by at The Rover Party on Mondays. There are rumors floating around about a lady named Roxanne. Give us the details!

DJ Royal: Well Rover has been going great. For those who don’t know it’s a traveling dance party every Monday in Philly. Roxanne is a bit of party girl who likes to hangout at the new corner spot, Rogues Gallery Bar every Thursday. It’s in the Rittenhouse area on 21st & Ludlow and has a laid-back house party vibe.

 

The 949: What’s next for The Royale Brand?

DJ Royale: I’m currently in the process of re-branding myself, the focus on being a social figure and entertainer that connects all types of people together. Too many people get caught up in their everyday lives of facebook, email, texting, phone calls, work, bills, etc. Honestly all I want to do is bring people together to have a good time for a few hours and have them forget about their daily lives. Additionally I’m really focused on putting Philly back on the map as an awesome city with a great nightlife. Personally I’m always trying to become a better skilled DJ, be it technically or musically.

Stay tuned he’s only getting started!

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