DJ Rea on making her mark in the male-dominated sector
PIETERMARITZBURG native Reanne David, popularly known as DJ Rea, has steadily secured her place as one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most talented DJ’s.
The DJ has entered the male-dominated industry by putting in the effort and time needed to learn the ins and outs of the music business.
She said: “It was not an easy journey but it was all well worth it in the end.”
She now owns and runs two successful events companies, K & R Events and RDs Sound & Photography.
Born and raised in the small community of Northdale, Rea’s love for music began at a young age when she played with DJing software and soon became the DJ at family events.
She didn’t intend to take up DJing as a profession, but when the stars aligned, she knew that it was a part of her destiny.
“I wanted to become a paramedic but it didn’t work out. I never thought of making my passion for DJing an actual career. I just loved music and I always wanted to learn how to mix music.
“I loved listening to and playing old school music, ’80s and ’90s R&B and Bollywood music. My intentions in the beginning was to do it for fun and see where it goes, but I never expected to get to where I am, and for that, I am truly grateful,” she said.
The DJ pursued her career after Grade 12 and while at campus she DJed at weekends to pay for her varsity fees.
Rea opened up about the struggles she had while perfecting her craft.
“Most of what I know is self-taught. It was very hard being an up and coming DJ in the industry. Many male DJs did not want to teach me or help me when I needed to know something.
“There were male DJs who laughed at me on social media and at my gigs, but never offered to help. I didn’t allow it to get me down. It motivated me to learn and do better and be a better DJ in the industry.”
The DJ, with multi-coloured hair, also looks to other women who fuel her motivation.
“I am motivated to do better for them because I know that I am making a difference for them, hence my colourful hair. Many women get judged for dressing and looking a certain way, but I use my hair as a voice to show them that they can do whatever they want.
“I will continue to push, and be a better version of myself to motivate others, especially those who want to become a DJ.”
She was most grateful for the support of her family, boyfriend and friends who supported her throughout her career.
“Their support has got me to where I am now. I have travelled to many places within South Africa through my love and passion for DJing and had I not taken this path, I probably wouldn’t have visit these beautiful places.”
Rea’s message for those, especially women, looking to pursue a career in the music industry was to “never give up, work hard and always remain humble”.
“The journey will never be easy. Always remember to work hard and push harder. Never let negative people get you down. Instead, use that as motivation to get you where you need to go, and no matter what, always remain humble.”
Aside from mixing some of the hottest music you will ever hear, the DJ also works for the NPO, One Life Foundation, where she handles the social media content and graphic designing.