The anticipation was palpable as the panelists for Up & Up Oxford’s DJ competition gathered in February to listen to the electrifying sets submitted by students vying for the chance to open for the popular EDM duo Shipwrek. The panel had braced themselves for energetic beats destined to get crowds moving. Yet, unexpectedly, amid the thumping bass and melodic synthesisers, they heard the blasting horns of the FOX NFL theme song—a bold choice that would kick off a remarkable story.
Andrew Solomon, a sophomore studying business analytics, believes that the key to being a successful DJ lies in the art of surprise. “It’s all about picking the right track at the right time, even when it’s unexpected,” he asserts, reflecting on the unique sonic journey he presented during his audition.
Roots in Chicago’s EDM Scene
Solomon’s story begins in the vibrant city of Chicago, renowned as the birthplace of house music and rich in its gritty EDM heritage. In 2023, a historic building was designated the official birthplace of the genre, further cementing Chicago’s influence on electronic music. However, for Solomon, his true education in DJing occurred not on the bustling streets of the city, but in the privacy of his childhood home.
Growing up, Solomon was enveloped by a world filled with DJs—his mother owned vinyl records and turntable equipment, mixing tracks during her own youth. Friends of the family were actively involved in the DJ scene, sparking an early fascination in Solomon. This unique upbringing ignited a passion that drew him deeper into the genre.
A Journey into Music
Solomon’s journey into the world of electronic music truly flourished as he began immersing himself in Chicago’s rich music festival landscape. Regardless of genre, he made it a point to attend various EDM events, soaking in diverse sounds while familiarizing himself with the dynamic atmosphere. After a season filled with exhilarating shows, he felt compelled to create his own music.
One summer, he picked up a budget-friendly controller and began experimenting with basic mixing techniques using his mother’s old gear. It was a low-pressure environment, allowing him to refine his skills while simply enjoying himself. “I was just having fun with it, mixing songs that I liked,” he recalls, illustrating how this creative outlet formed the foundation of his passion.
A Winning Sound
The dedication paid off when Solomon’s burgeoning talent reached the ears of the Up & Up Oxford panelists. Jake Goudie, co-president of the organization, was particularly impressed by Solomon’s capacity to build momentum and transition smoothly between tracks. Solomon’s name had not been on Goudie’s radar before the competition, making his high-level performance all the more surprising.
“His set immediately stood out to our team,” Goudie shared, emphasizing Solomon’s mastery in blending genres, tapping into bass house, future bass house, and trap influences, all prominent in Chicago’s music scene. While Solomon aligned with contemporary EDM trends, Goudie noted moments where Solomon’s distinctive taste shone through, referencing artists like ISOXO and Knock2, known for their compelling and hard-hitting sound.
A standout moment in Solomon’s set came when he surprised the audience with the unexpected inclusion of “the horns from NFL Sunday,” which Goudie celebrated as a “super creative touch.” He remarked on how such elements can elevate a performance, create memorable experiences, and foster audience engagement.
Connecting with the Audience
For Solomon, the essence of DJing transcends technical prowess or elaborate mixes; it lies in the way the crowd connects with the music. “People just want to vibe or hear a song that they like,” he explained, considering his focus on crowd engagement rather than flashy transitions or effects.
Although he did not win the chance to open for Shipwrek, the impact of his set lingered in the minds of the panelists, particularly for Goudie, who noted Solomon’s eagerness to immerse himself in the Oxford electronic music scene. “That willingness to engage with the community and show up consistently is just as important as the technical side,” he remarked.
Growing a Following in Oxford
Back on campus, Solomon’s growing reputation is evident among Miami University students, where he has started performing live sets. Eli O’Keefe, a first-year student who met Solomon through campus friends, has become a staunch supporter. Solomon began by performing at Hidden Triangle, an underground house party series designed for alternative and LGBTQ+ communities.
The breakthrough came around Halloween when Solomon reached out to Hidden Triangle after seeing a post looking for performers. His debut performance occurred that night, where expectations were low. Solomon, not being a known entity, took a risk—and seemed to deliver as the crowd enjoyed his set. In hindsight, he refers to that experience as a key moment in his life.
Reflections on the Journey
“If I could think of any of the best times of my life, it would be that first time playing in front of people with the music that I like and seeing how many people were having fun with it,” Solomon reflects, a smile in his voice as he recalls the thrill of live performance. His enthusiasm has not faded, and he continues to seek opportunities to connect with audiences in Oxford’s lively nightlife scene.
As the music scene evolves around him, Goudie views Oxford as an excellent testing ground for DJs. He has recognized Solomon as someone with significant potential. “I’m definitely having fun at every show and every set I do,” Solomon affirms, demonstrating his commitment to crafting unique experiences for his audience.
Whether behind the decks or in the crowd, Andrew Solomon is poised to make waves in the EDM scene, driven by passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of connection through music.
