F.I.L.E.S. Las Vegas Interview with DJ Hottie CARLA LEGASPI aka DJ C-L.A

A weekend job of mobile DJing (2003) was all it took before C-L.A. realized there was a passion and itch to transform music into a profession. Working as a mobile DJ broadened her musical knowledge as she played various events such as weddings, birthdays, corporate events, yacht parties and more. C-L.A.’s mobile experience opened up her knowledge of various musical genres and formats. This was the foundation of her skill and ability to read a crowd. Although this was a great start for C-L.A., she felt there was something more to gain from the passion that burned inside her.

In 2004 C-L.A, relocated to Las Vegas from southern California. Getting her start in Vegas, she landed a position as a VIP Host for a few nightclubs. Becoming a host helped her develop the relationships needed to break into the Las Vegas’ elite nightlife industry. Still focused on DJing, she showcased herself at various open turntable nights. Slowly, but surely people began to distinguish and recognize her talent amongst the handful of female DJs in town and by 2008, C-L.A. had become one of Vegas’ most versatile top DJs and was voted “Best DJ” at Blush Nightclub’s B.R.O. Awards [Bragging Rights Of 2008].

C-L.A.’s high energy sets of Hip Hop, Top 40, and House has her energizing and rockin’ crowds locally, nationally and internationally at the hottest spots in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Las Vegas, New York, Boston, Toronto, and the Bahamas. In 2008, she became part of the most distinguished nightlife companies on the Las Vegas Strip, the TAO Group. Still currently one of the resident deejays, she plays at some of the top-grossing nightclubs for the company:- TAO Las Vegas, LAVO Las Vegas, TAO BEACH and Marquee Dayclub & Nightclub.

Each year that goes by, C-L.A.’s skills, knowledge and programming become stronger than the year before. She attributes her success to dedication, persistence, patience, the appreciation she has for deejaying and the unconditional support from the ones who believe in her passion. That burning passion C-L.A. initially felt back in 2003, has turned from a flame to a fireball! When experiencing her performance live, you can undeniably feel the heat. She believes that in order to have longevity in this profession, you must have an open mind and a humble heart. Each day is a lesson for one to absorb fresh knowledge, be it music, programming or technical skills. There’s no place C-L.A. would rather be than behind the two turntables and mixer that she happily calls her “office.” Make sure you check her out.

-How long have you been dj-ing?

DJ’n since 2003. So it’s my 8th year.

-Where did you get started?

Got started at a small mobile-dj’ing company back when I was in my last year of college. Did it as a weekend job but then realized I’d want to pursue it more seriously when this so-called “JOB” didn’t feel like a job. It’s an amazing feeling to have and know you’re doing something you love.

-What’s your favorite memory as a dj?

Hmm… favorite memory?? Well there’s so many. The places I’ve traveled and different people I’ve met along the way are great memories. My residencies I’ve been lucky to get are great memories. I’m just thankful for everything I’ve accomplished.

-What’s your worst memory as a dj?

There really isn’t a worst memory. Everything to me is a learning process even if plans get messed up.

-What are the advantages of being a dj?

ADVANTAGES, YES! LOL Especially being a girl haha. Owners/Managers or Promoters who book you for their events make sure you get taken care of. Travel & accommodations when I play for out of state/country gigs. Drinks and food too! They make sure their talent is fueled up to perform at their best!

-Who’s your favorite dj and why?

When I get asked this question, I can’t pin point “ONE” person. My inspirations are actually my fellow dj friends. The ones who have been dj’n for years and gained respect because of their skill, production work, or both. Why my friends? Because they support what I do, believe in me, and I watch amazing talent every night at work. It’s like being in class every night and learning from some of the extraordinary people in the dj world.

- What would you do to reinvent the whole dj industry?

I don’t know about reinventing the whole dj industry. It’s inevitably evolving. However, with me, I aim to prove that I can be as good or better as a guy dj. Doesn’t matter about gender. I am a DJ. Not a “Female DJ”. Just a “DJ”.

-Is there a dream job that you have as a dj?

To DJ in countries on the other side of the world, like Japan, Macau, Australia, some examples.

-What kind of music do you love to play?

I play everything from Hip Hop, R&B, Top 40, Rock, House. However, compared to all the other genres, House is the only genre that can give me goosebumps. SOOOO SICK!! Maybe because I’m a bass whore ahahaaha. You can check out all the different types of music I mix on Mixcrate.com/DJCLA. The downloads are free *^_^*