Today, we’d like to introduce you to Darryl Dungee.
Hi Darryl, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Was exposed to the industry through his godfather’s musical writing career, while artists like Toni Braxton, Me2U, and Prophet Jones drove his passion for music, which also helped him overcome the many obstacles he faced during his childhood.
After learning about melody, bpm (beats per minute), base lines and drums, Dungee launched his brand, FollowTheDJ, at the young age of 15.
Over a decade of grinding later, FollowTheDJ has performed in numerous venues and amassed quite a large following. He’s also had the opportunity to work with several producers such as Shawn Campbell, who has produced records for artists like Missy Elliot, and Don Truck, who’s worked with artists like LeToya Luckett.
Dungee is a big believer in serving the community in fun and positive ways through cultural and recreational arenas. He especially emphasizes to all youth that “they too have a chance to make it in life no matter what their situation, just by finding their passion and following through with their dreams.”
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nothing worth doing comes at the cost of ease. This is my 2nd time relocating to another state; the first was in Raleigh, NC, dating back to July of 2019, where, for a short time, I was completely homeless, sleeping out of my car. Later, I found a way to make money after my mom rented a house for me. I threw house parties during COVID until things opened back up and was offered many opportunities to throw events at venues. Now, fast forward to October 2023, I relocated to Houston, hitting the reset button again. It has its challenges of getting back out there, doing the groundwork to build a community and relationships, and finding venues that are willing to take a chance on you being new to the Houston area. One thing I’ve learned is that until you’re a national name, your resume doesn’t carry over in this industry. It’s like you’re a brand new dj/event planner because, in their eyes, you are.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I create lifetime memories. I’m a dj and event planner. My current company is called Elite Gentlemen Events. We specialize in R&B events that include interactive activities, brunches, day parties & pool parties. I also own an R&B festival, “The Secret Garden Soiree,” which is an all-outdoor experience. The thing I’m proud of the most is being able to look in the mirror and constantly say, “I DID IT AGAIN.” Being able to last for as long as I have and continue to reinvent myself is shocking even to me. What separates me is I don’t take no for an answer, and I never wait for someone to give me anything.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Stay the course and understand nothing will ever go as planned but the ending result will always remain the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.elitegentlemenevents.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/elitegentlemenevents
- Facebook: www.instagram.com/followthedj
