The Journey of Music and Community: DJ Hollywood's Story

In an episode of the MindShift Power Podcast, we had the privilege of diving into the inspiring journey of Mario Johnson, better known as DJ Hollywood, from Albany, New York. Hosted by the dynamic Fatima Bey, this episode explores DJ Hollywood's transformation from an athlete to a renowned entrepreneur and the founder of the impactful movement, "More Music, Less Violence."

From Athlete to Entrepreneur

DJ Hollywood's story begins as a young black man from Brooklyn, New York, who moved to the Capital District to attend Hudson Valley Community College. Initially pursuing football, his path took a turn, leading him to discover his passion for music and entrepreneurship. "I played sports my whole entire, you know, portion of my teen years," he recalls. After graduating from UAlbany, he embraced his new identity as DJ Hollywood, and the rest is history.

The Birth of More Music, Less Violence

More Music, Less Violence is a community concert series that DJ Hollywood founded in 2020, amidst the pandemic and the George Floyd protests. "It sparked up in 2020," he shares. With social gatherings restricted, he seized the opportunity to create a pop-up showcase at Riverfront Park in Troy. Despite the challenges, the event brought the community together, promoting healing and unity through music.

Impact on the Community

One of the core missions of More Music, Less Violence is to provide a safe space for self-expression and healing. "You can be in this space and, you know, you don't leave the same way you enter," DJ Hollywood explains. The feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants experiencing the unexplainable power of music to heal and unite.

Connecting with Youth

DJ Hollywood's initiative has successfully connected with youth of all ages. "There's no age limit on artists," he proudly states. From eight-year-olds to seniors, the shows have featured a diverse range of performers. Encouraging positive music and self-expression without the use of cursing, the movement empowers young artists to share their talents and messages.

The Power of Music

Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries and brings people together. DJ Hollywood highlights the profound impact music has on our emotions and well-being. "One thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain," he quotes Bob Marley. Music's ability to inspire, heal, and connect people on a deeper level is truly remarkable.

Entrepreneurship Journey

As a full-time entrepreneur, DJ Hollywood wears many hats. From DJing and content creation to teaching kids how to DJ and running a photo booth business, he embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship. "I made the executive decision to, you know, do three gigs in a day," he shares, emphasizing the importance of planning, preparation, and execution.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

DJ Hollywood offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He encourages finding one's passion and purpose and turning it into a paycheck. "Find your passion, find your purpose, and then figure out how you could turn it into a paycheck," he advises. He also stresses the significance of planning, using wisdom, and maintaining discipline in all business endeavors.

The Role of Nonprofits

More Music, Less Violence is transitioning into a nonprofit organization to connect with more like-minded organizations and further its mission. "We could connect with a lot more organizations who have a similar purpose and mission statement," DJ Hollywood explains. Balancing his business and nonprofit endeavors, he exemplifies the impact of using business skills for the greater good.

Final Thoughts

DJ Hollywood's journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the impact of entrepreneurship on community building. His dedication to promoting positive music, self-expression, and unity through More Music, Less Violence is truly inspiring. "The experience you get is unexplainable," he asserts, inviting everyone to be part of this powerful movement.