Legacy’s Gift of Music programs have expanded this past year to include DJ lessons. This new program element has proven to be incredibly popular and we are now excited to introduce you to our amazing DJ Instructors who are making this all possible.
Crystal Rhodes aka DJ Crystal Fresh
Crystal Rhodes aka DJ Crystal Fresh
Where are you from? I lived in Manitoba/Saskatchewan until I was 22, then British Columbia/Costa Rica for 10 years, and now in Calgary.
How many years have you been in the music industry? I began raving at 14 years old, DJing at 18, throwing events and touring at 21, teaching DJ lessons at 25, and I started working as a talent booking agent this year, so its been atleast a solid 14 years that I've been in the music industry.
When and how did you first get involved in music? I loved music right from as far back as I can remember. My whole family loved music and I was always dancing, singing, or writing poetry. Playing instruments such as clarinet, bass guitar, and keyboard came easy to me as a kid, so I picked up DJing very quickly. There was an active rave scene in the city where I went to university, so it was a big part of the youth culture where I grew up.
What instruments/type of music do you play? Currently, I am DJing with turntables, cdjs, and controllers, and I play the Djembe for fun in workshops sometimes as well.
How did you first find out about the Legacy Children’s Foundation’s Gift of Music program? My good friend Jamie told me about an organization she was involved with and suggested I may be a good fit and have a lot to offer based on my experience and education.
What is your favorite part about working with the foundation? I have the opportunity to teach kids how to DJ and express themselves through music. Working with the foundation creates a platform for kids to channel their energy and explore their passions through the creative outlet of music. This offers kids a skill set that will increase their self confidence and support personal growth, as well as provide them with tools, resources, and opportunities for work and travel in their future.
What is your favorite song/band right now? My favorite song right now is: All Alone – Pegboard Nerds and Grabbitz
If you could have any superpower what would it be? If I had a superpower, it would be that every person, animal, and thing that heard my music would magically be healed to the absolute strongest and happiest they could ever possibly be! I would travel the lands with a very loud sound system and heal everything that could hear me!
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself: An interesting fact about me is that I have travelled to 17 countries and DJed in almost all of them.