Osagie

It was a 1995 Michael Jackson concert that Osagie, a Philadelphia based DJ credits with giving him the initial spark to pursue a career in music. Growing up in a environment which fanned his hunger for a variety of musical tastes, he began to listen more carefully to musical genres that would define his current sound. Jazz, Funk, House, Hip Hop, New Age, Disco, Afro-beat and Soul are all incorporated in his craft. “I love music”, said the Atlanta born dj who spends equal time shopping for quality rare records as he does spinning them. From the time he was 13, he was listening to DJ Koolherc, Grand Master Flash and other a pre-eminent djs from the 80s who heavily influenced his sound. “I felt a connection and knew that I wanted to be a part of it, said the 30 year old self described connoisseur.” But spinning was only a part of his vision. As his career blossomed, learning about the music became an essential part of his mission. “I often visit record stores four times a week and typically spend up to 4 hours record digging worldwide. Engaging in this ritual is the closest thing to medication,” said the dj. Osagie uses his knowledge of the music to educate listeners and also youth on the traditional forms and sounds of African American culture.