Meet Elaina Gray | DJ Laineweeze

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elaina Gray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elaina, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always had a strong passion for music. Growing up in the church and being surrounded by so many different instruments, and hearing so many strong voices, really led to me wanting to explore music on a more personal level. For a while, I took up rapping. Writing rhymes in my notebook at school. And even begging my grandmother to take me to the studio while visiting her in Chicago, to no avail. Probably a smart decision on her end, considering I had no idea what I was doing. My siblings actually still crack jokes on me for that. Luckily, that’s not where my story ended. In college, I would often DJ dorm room parties at Kennesaw State for my teammates. Only using a laptop and YouTube to alternate between songs. I believe that’s when it clicked for me. A few years later, I finally purchased my first DJ mixer. After purchasing my mixer, I spent a few months practicing and building up my software so that I would eventually be comfortable in club settings. From there, it was history. I started expanding my clientele and my sound. Ultimately leading me to have many opportunities in the Atlanta area.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think being a DJ is such an interesting career. Everything is subjective in the entertainment industry. Some people like a specific type of music when they’re out. However, I think what sets me apart is my ability to transition through a plethora of genres. I can seamlessly transition between Rap, Reggae, Afrobeats, R&B, Pop, Country, Ampiano, House, you name it. I’ve spent a lot of years working on my transitions, and I think it’s awesome to be able to showcase that when being out in a public setting. I’ve dealt with quite a few challenges in my career. I’ve thought countless times about giving up and maybe going back to corporate. But I have SO much fun being up there in that booth and having the ability and the trust from the audience to perform an engaging experience.
I’d like the world to know that anything is possible. Literally, ANYTHING. I’ve spent time being depressed, feeling alone, and not trusting myself with my gift. All of these things were mental. Once, I was able to conquer my mind, I felt limitless in my craft.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Great question! My favorite places to eat have been C&S Seafood on Roswell Rd. The chargrilled oysters are to die for. For sushi, I’d take a friend to Fudo. Amazing food and atmosphere. North Italia for pizza for dinner. The Spicy Meatball is amazing! Anyone that comes to Atlanta has to try Bar Vegan. One of my favorite places for food and drinks. For drinks, I’d definitely say Sidebar. Granted, I’m a little bias because I’m there pretty often. But the drinks, food, and vibes are perfect.
I’m a sucker for activities. So, I’d say Puttshack, the Georgia Aquarium, or taking a ride on the ferris wheel in Centennial Park. Also, you could never go wrong going to Hawks game. Whether the seats are close up or far away, the experience is unmatched.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My sister! Wow! Her support on this journey has been unmatched. Whether she’s offered strong words of encouragement or has just shown up countless times to support me. I could literally always depend on her. My mother, Roberta, has also helped me tremendously on this journey. I believe she recognized I had a special talent at a young age. She’s always pushed me to be a better overall person. She also helps quite a bit on the financial side when dealing with different business transactions.

Everyone in my family has at one time, or another aided in my success story. They’ve all encouraged me to continue on my journey. Thank you to my brother, my father, my grandmother, and all the other members of my family who have pushed me to become the best person I can be in this moment. Also, thank you to my VERY supportive friends who’ve shared my content online or who have come to support me in person. Not sure I would have any success without the support of my friends and family.

Website: https://mixcloud.com/djlaineweeze/

Instagram: instagram.com/laineweeze

Image Credits
@NightLifeLink on Instagram