Today we’d like to introduce you to Omar Espinola.
Omar, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The story started in my freshman year of high school in 1994, I wanted to throw a party because I was never invited to all the ” cool kids” parties. So, I decided to throw my own, I gathered up a turntable from my uncle, and one from my Godfather and bought a mixer from radio shack and a few records from Vinyl edge a local record store. A few key friends came to the party, but it wasn’t popping or anything. My mom had prepared alot of food, but I totally stressed that it wasn’t gonna be that kind of party. A lot of food went to waste, but I realized also that my homebrew of dj equipment just wasn’t gonna cut it. So, I decided to mow lawns, hustle a bit, and save my lunch money of 5 dollars a day that my dad gave me for about a year and a half or two years until I was able to save up for some Technics turntables… but when I got to Guitar Center, my money wasnt enough. So, my mom spotted me a few hundred and I was able to complete the ensemble and got the mixer as well. It was really hard for me to get really know what was going on in the scene because the internet wasnt what it was today, there was no YouTube, and my parents didnt let me drive till I was about 19 years old. So, I had friends drive me around to DJ parties. I had no one to really teach me how to DJ… just 30-second video clips of DJ Qbert over dial-up.
Fast forward many years later, I’ve graced the bill with the likes of my mentor DJ Qbert, Drake, Guns n Roses, Slipknot, Robbie Rivera, Dj Vice… and Girls Gone Wild. In 2013, I placed second at the WMC Mixing Championships in Miami, during Miami Music week and had on and off bouts with the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. I’ve djed as far east as Manila, Philippines and as far North as Ontario Canada. But I’m not finished.
Has it been a smooth road?
As I said, I grew up in an era where internet wasnt fast, there were no YouTube DIY and tutorial videos. I also grew up in Tomball, a rural farming community. I raised Chickens, Ducks, Cows, and Goats… and I plan on doing all that organic stuff again! Some of my struggles were in town rivalries, cost undercutting, and even my very own Dad, who didn’t support my djing until I received the second place world title in Miami. I go through all the “starving artist” struggles. =)
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of. What sets you apart from others?
As a Dj of over 20 years, I specialize in an open format and electronic music. That can range from Classical, Country, Hip Hop, Disco, 80’s and I’m a big fan of EDM. I guess I’m most proud of my professionalism as well as the charisma I have had with people. I would say my eclectic taste in music sets me apart from other DJs.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
What I love about Houston is the diversity and activity. There is always something to do in Houston any night of the week. There are clubs, bars, outdoor activities, rich culture, and great food. But what I dislike about our city is we are not trendsetters here, only trend followers for the most part, especially when it comes to music and DJing. Houston needs to be more open-minded and not just stuck in its old ways.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vjtaboo.com
- Phone: 8328671162
- Email: vjtaboobookings@gmail.com
- Instagram: @vjtaboo
- Other: www.soundcloud.com/vjtaboo
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