[wpaudio url="http://getyourbizsavvy.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Demo-preview1.mp3" text="DJ Mendoza's Exclusive Demo Preview" dl="0"]
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“Age is just a number.” That is how the saying goes for Alex Mendoza. Not many nineteen year olds can say they are an entrepreneur, nationwide DJ, and producer. That might be because, while his peers are out partying, he is working on his next production. On top of his business lifestyle, Mendoza is enrolled at The Berklee College of Music. Somehow he is able to keep up with time management because his success continues to soar. Some may see Mendoza attending college as a step backward since he has already established himself as an entrepreneur and entertainer, but he argues that going through college is an important step forward. Be enlightened as Alex Mendoza tells you about life as a young entrepreneur, how he got himself to where he is today, why it is important to go to college and some “professional” advice to put the cherry on top of this inspiring interview.
What is life like as a young entrepreneur?
It’s very exciting, but it is an extremely busy lifestyle. You always have to be on your feet and of course, never stop working. I feel that if you have enough motivation and drive, you will never ask yourself, “Am I working too hard?” It can get really crazy when you pursue a lot of work, and then too many things can come at you at once. This is where many people struggle. But my entire family works hard, so I guess it could also be in my genes.
In high school, sometimes it felt like I was living under a rock. My friends would ask me to go out with them, but I stayed focused on my music, and I have no regrets.
Can you talk more about what you have done as an entrepreneur?
When I was 14, I started hosting events at various venues around the Boston area. My first event drew about 250 people. This was an all age dance event. I realized that the area had no nightlife for kids, ages 14-21, which was my crowd. I named the events, like, “Hip Hop Throwdown,” or “Reggaeton Night,” or “Reggaeton vs. Dancehall”, so people knew exactly what they were paying for. It may not have been my top choice of music to be spinning, but I knew gaining that fan base would pay off in the future.
What made you want to be a DJ, producer, and entrepreneur?
When I first started, I noticed that there were many talented DJs and artists who go nowhere because they lack business sense. Many people are scared of entering a business dealing with finances, but it is something that can’t be avoided in the entertainment industry. Having an interest in music all my life, producing became a necessity, and I figure it gives me more to offer when looking at the big picture. It all came together now–managing, producing, and DJing for our music group “The Dean’s List,” with Sonny Shotz and Mik Beats, and featuring others from Berklee College of Music such as vocalists Sid Sriram, and Jordan Brown. I feel very lucky that I am able to combine everything I love to do. At the end of the day, mixing music with business is all I need.
How have you been able to make yourself a “nation-wide” DJ?
Starting in the music business at a young age gave me the opportunity to collaborate with different artists. This led to sponsorships from various record labels, which led to collaborations with other musicians. Attending Berklee College of Music, here in Boston, has also given me an edge. I have been able to meet and work with great musicians and entertainers from all over the world, all under one roof.
Where did you get your motivation? How do you continue to motivate yourself?
I have always been very goal-driven and motivated. I was raised to work hard, especially musically. Some need an occurrence in their life to get a “slap in the face.” Personally, I look at others’ experiences and mistakes and learn from them, so hopefully I don’t have to experience them myself. My uncle would always give me a dollar whenever I visited him and have me memorize the saying, “Health is wealth, knowledge is power, truth is absolute.” That is all I have ever needed to keep me going.
Aside from working, you go to college. How do you find time for both? Do you sleep?
Not a whole lot! It is a very hectic lifestyle, but you get used to it, and it definitely has its fun times, too. Almost every single day, I wish there was more time. But when you do what you love to do, sleeping becomes a burden. I tend not to think about how much sleep I am missing, but to make sure I enjoy life and the people around me. Luckily, I have great close friends to always remind me of that, and who work with me as well. Some I knew in high school, like Ralph Valcin, who is the co-manager for The Dean’s List.
What are your thoughts on college?
Some people feel Berklee holds them back, but I feel that Berklee is vital to my musical career in the long run, even if it’s sometimes difficult to balance school and outside work. I use Berklee to my full advantage, and living right in Boston gives me the convenience for all of the above.
You’re already an entrepreneur and people know you as a DJ, so why go through college?
Staying in school is really an investment. Going for the quick fame can be great, but one-hit wonders happen all the time and I am in this for the long run. I want to be able to have my options in the industry. I think it’s important to be a well-rounded musician. and I figure, why wait to learn the tools that will advance you in the industry?
What are your goals for the future?
Aside from marrying Eva Mendez,?! My plan is to become very active in the entertainment industry, including DJing, producing, and managing various artists. I hope to have multiple attributes and have the flexibility to expand to other things.
What advice can you give to aspiring DJs, entrepreneurs, and everyone else out there?
It is always important to be professional, whether you’re sending a quick email or presenting yourself in an interview. It surprises me how many people do not act professionally when it comes to a job they want.
What is something interesting about Alex Mendoza, that most people do not know?
I love watching Family Guy during the really stressful times, for laughs, and Entourage as well, so I don’t complain looking as busy as Jeremy Pivin’s character “Ari Gold.”
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I want to recognize the great people I work with. Everyone is really motivated, and cares about making great music. Recently, the industry has been changing, with people being able to make music and put it out on the Internet easily. While this has been terrific for a lot of people, it has also made it harder for the more serious and talented musicians to get noticed, to reach out to people and have an impact on people’s lives.
Keep an eye out for this up and coming entrepreneur and entertainer.
Be sure to check out Alex Mendoza’s site
Don’t forget to listen to Mendoza’s Exclusive Demo Preview.
Mendoza gives GetYourBizSavvy.com an awesome shout out!
