Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Reese.
Hi Mike, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I used to be an assistant manager at Hyvee then heard of an opportunity at the Ford plant. After almost 3 years at the claycomo ford plant I didnt feel content. I fell into the DJ/KJ opportunity by happenstance. A long time friend of mine (DJ Erock) was moving to Florida and he knew I was tech savvy and had me try covering for him a few nights. That turned into more nights and I decided to make it my full time income. For eleven years now it has been steadily growing into something very fulfilling. I have trained other KJ’s and have acquired multiple gear kits to rent out to other local aspiring DJ/KJs and have converted a Ford Transit van into a completely off grid mobile party on wheels. Without losing any bells/whistles or sound quality of a static venue. Apparently I am good at what I do and have been amassing a following that all the venues seems to appreciate. Current venues: Hard Core Cafe(Gladstone), The Runaway(Riverside) Cory Franks Bar (Gladstone) The Poison Apple(Gladstone) And other venues once a month such as Tavern 24(independence). Ive covered other KJS at various venues ie: Erins pub, Thirsty Gnome, Blueline Hockey Bar. I’m always trying to find new ways to optimize, innovate and streamline the karaoke experience.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I started in some pretty rough venues but after several years I was able to get into the places I desired that are much more mellow, I will be three years sober in November. So working these venues 5-6 nights a week with free access to alcohol can sometimes be challenging. But I have made my mind up..and I like it better on the sober side. You can imagine people giving me any and all types of booze as a TIP instead of cash sometimes..so by the end of the night I could be many many shots in. There were fights.. there were regrets that come with alcohol… Injuries and damaged relationships. Ive made it a point to be single the last 6 years to work on my self..so sobriety for almost the last 3 was a big step.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
For 20 years I fixed computers (house calls, word of mouth) Before joining the corporate world that I mentioned a few pages ago. So the friends I would drink with or who’s computers I would service..friendships were formed..and some of those friends 20 years later helped me to get where I am currently..by recommending me to certain venues etc. I have been a KJ since late 2015..and ive been growing every year… with new innovations and fun event ideas that keep karaoke interesting.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I LOVE music.. so I am almost constantly listening so music on Spotify or youtube,,and hunting down the next rabbit hole where some great music can be found.
Pricing:
- Very competitive based on distance and duration.
- $50 deposit for private events that counts towards total.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nerdywalk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069314987733
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@djpepperentertainment
