A Sunday with DJ KJ: The Rhythm of Campus Life at Princeton
As the sun bathes Princeton’s campus in a warm glow, the verdant courtyard below Blair Arch buzzes with the vibrant energy of students, families, and spontaneous photoshoots. Today, the atmosphere is festive, warmed by the afterglow of Halloweekend. Among the throng, I settle into my lawn chair, preparing for a Zoom meeting with a unique individual: Kendall Jeong, also known as DJ KJ.
Discovering the Rhythm
Kendall’s journey into the world of DJing is as engaging as the beats she spins. Raised in a household that reverberated with electronic dance music, her earliest memories are colored by the sounds of iconic DJs like Armin van Buuren and Tiësto. “I remember driving to elementary school with my dad blasting EDM tracks,” she recalls, a smile creeping into her voice. Her parents were raving long before she could even attend, instilling in her a deep-rooted appreciation for the culture.
It wasn’t long before she decided to dive into DJing herself. “I bought a DJ deck about two years ago,” Kendall shares, “because I wanted to have some fun mixing sounds together.” What started as a personal venture soon transformed into performances at pregames, leading to her first official gig at the Charter Club.
Crafting the Experience
Kendall’s prowess extends beyond technical skill; her ability to read a crowd sets her apart. Drawing from an array of genres—house, tech house, garage, and Jersey Club—her sets are a blend of thoughtful curation and spontaneous energy. “I try to find that sweet spot where my music tastes align with the audience and the organizer,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of preparation mixed with the art of improvisation.
“During a set, I’m constantly gauging the vibe. I start with slower tracks to build excitement and aim for a high-energy peak around midnight.” This thoughtful approach to pacing is what transforms a mere collection of songs into a captivating experience.
Spinning the Records
The past weeks have been buzzing with excitement as Kendall has spun records at notable campus events like Charter Club Brat Night and Tiger Inn Halloween. “DJing at Tiger Inn was especially fun because I got to dress up!” she exclaims. For Kendall, the true joy lies in sharing the music she loves with friends. “My favorite night has been Brat Night. It was the first time I played in front of a big crowd, and all my friends showed up. That sense of community makes it truly special.”
Future Aspirations
With graduation on the horizon, Kendall reflects on her aspirations as she eyes a move to New York City. “I’d love to play at a venue there,” she states earnestly. Though she’s ambitious, she remains grounded, taking the journey one gig at a time. “I want to have fun and see where this leads me,” she continues. Her future in user experience design may not seem directly related to her DJing but resonates in its own right.
Advice for Aspiring DJs
When asked what advice she’d offer students intrigued by DJing, Kendall is quick to encourage exploration. “If you have an interest, go find someone with a deck or buy one for yourself. It doesn’t need to be expensive.” She emphasizes the importance of experimenting and suggests hosting small gatherings to test one’s skills in front of a supportive crowd. “Just get started,” she insists, the enthusiasm evident in her voice.
One poignant takeaway from our conversation is her openness to audience interaction. “I love taking song suggestions if I can,” she explains, though she notes the practical challenges that can arise. “The music library is usually set ahead of time, and sometimes incorporating spontaneous requests can be difficult, but I want everyone to have their moment on the dance floor.”
Embracing the Moments
Reflecting on her journey, Kendall highlights the unique opportunity that college presents for aspiring DJs. “Now is the time to experiment. The barrier to entry here is relatively low,” she advises. At Princeton, eating clubs are receptive to new talent, making it easier for students to find venues to perform.
With the conversation drawing to a close, the palpable excitement of a young artist breaking into the scene is evident. Kendall Jeong, DJ KJ, is not just spinning tracks—she is crafting moments for her peers, curating experiences that resonate in the lively tapestry of campus life.
Whether through the beats that fill the dance floor or the friendships that flourish in the backdrop, DJ KJ’s story is a harmonious note within the vibrant melody of Princeton.
