This past weekend, I had the pleasure of performing at a fantastic bocce party in Santa Clara. The event was a perfect blend of great music, laughter, and community, making it a truly memorable night for everyone involved.

Pre-Event Planning for a Seamless Experience

A few days before the party, I met with the hosts—Mom and Dad—at the venue to go over the event details. They provided the agenda, and we reviewed everything to ensure a smooth flow. This preparation helped me tailor the music selection to match the different phases of the event.

Setting the Mood with Live Instrumental Covers

As guests arrived and enjoyed cocktail hour, I played instrumental covers to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The soft melodies set the perfect tone for mingling and socializing.

Dinner with Fun Pop Music & a Bocce Ceremony

During dinner, we transitioned into upbeat pop music, adding a fun energy to the meal. Then came the much-anticipated bocce ceremony, where the crowd gathered to celebrate the game and its winners.

Hosting the Shoe Game & Getting Everyone Dancing

One of the highlights of the night was the classic Shoe Game! I had the honor of playing game show host, keeping the energy high and the audience engaged with laughter and cheers. Once the game wrapped up, we got everyone—young and old—on the dance floor. The mix of music appealed to all age groups, ensuring a lively and unforgettable celebration.

Book Live Music for Your Next Event

If you're planning a bocce party or any special event in Santa Clara, live music can take it to the next level. Contact me to create the perfect atmosphere for your gathering!

Open Format Vinyl Event in San Francisco: A DJ Experience

Recently, I had the opportunity to spin at an open-format vinyl event in El Chato in  San Francisco. Leading up to the gig, I was informed that one of the iconic Technics 1200 turntables was malfunctioning, which meant I had to bring my own. My first thought? "I already need to carry crates—now I have to haul a 1200 too?"

The night before, I prepped a four-hour digital playlist, only to stop and reflect: How often do I get to play vinyl these days? If I'm going to bring one crate, why not bring five? And if I’m bringing one 1200, why not make it two?

Despite the setup, we were ready to go well before our 4 p.m. start time. Originally scheduled to wrap up by 8 p.m., the vibe was so electric that we kept spinning until 9.

The crowd was treated to an eclectic mix of genres. We dropped funky grooves from the '80s, jams from the '90s, soulful house, and classic hip-hop bangers. It was a true journey through sound, showcasing the beauty of open-format DJing where anything goes and everything fits.

This event reminded me why I love spinning vinyl. There's something magical about the tactile connection with music and the energy exchange with a crowd when you're digging through crates, dropping needle to wax, and building sets in the moment.

In an age where digital DJing dominates, vinyl still has a way of captivating both the DJ and the audience.

Last year, I had the pleasure of DJing an unforgettable birthday party in Northridge, and to my excitement, the same crew called me back for another round at the same venue this year. They wanted a fresh mix of reggaeton and Mexican regional tracks, so I knew this was going to be a lively event with plenty of opportunity to get creative.

The energy was incredible from the start. They came ready with a lot of reggaeton requests, which kept the vibe moving and the dance floor packed. But I really wanted to take it up a notch — sometimes you need a different rhythm to get everyone fully involved. That’s when I switched things up with classic cumbias, and it did exactly what I hoped.

Suddenly, the entire party was moving in sync, spinning and smiling. There's just something about those timeless cumbia beats that hit differently at celebrations like these.

Later in the night, I hit them with a throwback 2000s hip-hop set. The crowd lit up when those familiar beats dropped — think bangers from the likes of Nelly, Missy Elliott, and classic West Coast hits. The nostalgic energy filled the room as people rapped along and danced like it was prom night all over again.

What made this event truly special was seeing the familiar faces from last year and building on that connection. It's a privilege when people trust you to create the soundtrack for their celebration, year after year.

If you're planning an event and want a DJ who can blend genres and keep the crowd hyped all night, let’s make it happen! From reggaeton and hip-hop to cumbias and regional classics, I've got you covered.

Ready to throw a memorable party? Contact me for your next Northridge event or beyond.

Record shopping in San Jose has evolved significantly over the years, blending  old school with modern challenges like inflation. Here’s a recap of my recent visit to some of the city’s prominent record stores and a look back at some all-time favorites.

Streetlight Records Streetlight Records remains a staple for vinyl enthusiasts in San Jose. Their collection of vintage vinyl is vast and impressively organized, making it easy for visitors to browse through decades of music history. However, the stark reality of inflation hits hard when you see new albums priced at $40 or more. Personally, I’ve shifted toward DJ compilations, as they’re more space-efficient and offer a curated selection of tracks. Overall, Streetlight earns a solid 3.5 out of 5 for its organization and selection.

On the Corner Music Next, I visited On the Corner Music, a much smaller shop. While the store’s decor features old gear that adds a quirky charm, the limited space for records makes for a crowded shopping experience, especially with just five people digging through the crates. The lack of organization means serious digging is required, which might appeal to hardcore vinyl hunters but can be off setting for casual shoppers. I’d rate this spot a 1.7 out of 5.

Record Barn and Memories of the Past Driving by the now-closed Record Barn was a bittersweet moment. Once a haven for vinyl lovers, its closure marked the end of an era. Reflecting on my favorite (the best record shops) stores, Knight Sounds and Hit Factory stand out. Knight Sounds offered hours of browsing joy while you chatted with Carlos, while Hit Factory’s knowledgeable owner, Danny, always had the tracks you needed.

Final Thoughts For me, the best record stores offer curated compilations that deliver great value. As the vinyl scene continues to change, the joy of finding hidden gems and reliving musical memories keeps the culture alive.

Vinyl Is Way Different Than Digital

Vinyl DJing is a whole different ballgame compared to digital. If you can handle vinyl, transitioning to digital is a breeze—but the reverse isn’t necessarily true. Vinyl has a distinct feel that demands more precision and skill. For instance, while using the Technics MK7 turntable, I noticed a big difference from the MK2. The MK2’s speed control button lights up at standard speed, giving you a clear indicator, but the MK7 lacks this feature. It's a small but significant adjustment.

OG Bar in San Jose: A Vinyl DJ’s Paradise

San Jose's OG bar is the perfect setup for vinyl DJs. They go above and beyond with backup headphones, their own needles, and even decorative vinyl records that double as playable backups. Their Pioneer mixer is user-friendly, although I had a brief moment of confusion with the cue buttons—they’ve got two buttons above each channel. Once I figured it out, it was smooth sailing.

The sound quality was impressive. The speakers, complete with amps, filled the room with warmth, and you could occasionally hear the classic vinyl pop, which added to the atmosphere.

A Unique Venue Experience

What sets OG bar apart is its clever layout. The front area is a vinyl haven, designed for DJs and vinyl enthusiasts. As you walk toward the restrooms, you’ll discover a second space called Alter Ego with different music and a more relaxed vibe. It’s essentially two parties under one roof, allowing guests to switch scenes without stepping outside.

OG bar isn't just a venue—it’s a testament to the artistry and culture of vinyl DJing. Whether you're a seasoned DJ or just a fan of good music, it’s worth checking out.

Once you've explored the vintage offerings at Mantiques Shop, head over to Needle to the Groove, Fremont’s go-to record store. Mantiques has a record section  in front of the store. No new records but older used ones. Whether you're a seasoned vinyl collector or a newcomer to the analog music scene, Needle to the Groove is a must-visit for anyone passionate about music. With an expansive collection of vinyl records spanning all genres, from rock and jazz to soul, indie, and blues, you're bound to find something that speaks to your musical tastes.

What sets Needle to the Groove apart is its commitment to offering high-quality, well-maintained vinyl. The staff, who are passionate music lovers themselves, are always ready to assist you in finding that elusive album or introduce you to new music. With an ever-growing selection of records from local and independent artists, the shop provides a fresh, personal touch that larger stores simply can’t match. The store is small but filled of well maintained vinyl. They have signs  saying please treat the  vinyl nicely. Lots of sealed records there.

Why Fremont is the Perfect Destination for Record Shopping and Antiquing

A visit to Mantiques Shop and Needle to the Groove in Fremont is more than just a shopping trip — it’s a chance to connect with the past and present of culture, music, and history. Whether you're hunting for vintage home décor, looking to add to your vinyl collection, or just browsing for something unique, these two Fremont locations offer an unforgettable experience.

Fremont is becoming a true destination for those who love to explore the past through antiques and vintage goods, and for music lovers who seek the authentic sound and experience of vinyl records. Whether you're a local or visiting the Bay Area, make sure to carve out time for these two spots. You’ll leave with something special, guaranteed!

Prepping for a 4-Hour Vinyl DJ Set: The Art of Curating Your Collection

Preparing for a 4-hour vinyl DJ set in 2025 is a far cry from the days when I used to carry six heavy record crates to a gig. These days, I’m down to carry four crates. My arms and back will thank me later. The process has become an exercise in selection, as I’m faced with the challenge of narrowing down my collection of vinyl records.

In the early 2000s, vinyl was on its way out. While everyone else switched to CDs and then MP3s, I held onto vinyl, stubbornly resisting the digital revolution. By 2010, most of us had embraced digital formats, but I kept my records in case vinyl ever made a comeback. And though vinyl didn’t get lighter, its mystique never faded. The  experience of spinning a record on my beloved Technics 1200 turntables is something that MP3s can’t imitate.

When it comes to the music I’ll be bringing to my next set, the decision-making is just as tough. I’ve handpicked a selection of freestyle, 80s new wave, and some classic 90s R&B. No set would be complete without funk, so I’ve made sure to pack a few essential party tracks. But then, the dilemma: Should I take my 90s house records, or trade them for 2000s party anthems? I’ve always loved playing 90s house, but looking at the crowd, I’m betting the 2000s vibes will hit harder.

Ultimately, it’s all about reading the crowd and creating a memorable atmosphere. Whether you’re sticking with vinyl or moving into the digital realm, curating the perfect set takes time and intuition. I know I need to spend some time with my vinyl before my next vinyl show  but it feels good knowing I can  only play what I bring like the good old  days.

If you're looking to throw a vibrant Latin birthday party near East Los Angeles, Maywood is the perfect place to celebrate. Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting a lively 26th birthday bash for a birthday girl who truly knew how to mix the old with the new.

The party kicked off on a Saturday night, fueled by an epic Spotify playlist boasting 33 hours of non-stop music. This thoughtfully curated mix set the tone, blending classics and contemporary hits to keep the energy high all night. The birthday girl shared her favorite tracks, including a mix of her dad’s favorite tunes, making the playlist a beautiful reflection of her family’s musical heritage.

As the guests arrived, the music journey began with timeless old-school Spanish hits, creating an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and warmth. After the traditional birthday song, the party transitioned to current hip-hop tracks, bringing a modern vibe to the dance floor. Later in the evening, we brought it back to the roots with ranchera melodies that had everyone singing along. Finally, the night crescendoed with lively banda music, ensuring that the celebration ended on a high note.

A highlight of the evening was the special guest singer. She connected seamlessly with our sound system, delivering heartfelt performances and lighthearted jokes that had everyone engaged and entertained.

Planning a Latin birthday party in Maywood? Let the music be your guide. With the right playlist and a focus on blending cultural favorites with contemporary hits, your celebration will be unforgettable. Whether it’s ranchera, banda, or hip-hop, a well-rounded mix ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Celebrate life and culture in style in the heart of Maywood, where every beat brings people closer together.