Meet the DJ - Mike Dodson

My name is Mike Dodson (aka DJ MDIII). I've been a part of the MMYH team since 2016 after DJing on my own for a few years. I live in Richmond, VA. I married my college sweetheart and we have three awesome kids. When I have free time, I enjoy relaxing, spending time with family, and local travel.

What made you start Djing? - and what or who were your early passions and influences?

I have been in love with music since before I could speak. I grew up in church and I come from a very musical family. There was always great singing and dancing all around me. Growing up in the 80's and 90's was incredible as a kid. My brother (who is also a pretty dope DJ) would bring home records and tapes of Michael Jackson, Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Eric B. & Rakim, Dougie Fresh, etc. I would listen and memorize all of it! In fact, the first song I ever memorized in its entirety was “I Can't Live Without My Radio” by LL Cool J. I would grab my invisible mic and swear I was LL! I thought I was the coolest 5 year old alive! LOL! As I got older, I began to collect all types of music. Rap, R&B, Rock, Gospel, Jazz. If I liked it, I had to have a copy. By the time I got to college, my CD collection became pretty impressive. I began to make mixtapes for my family and friends. Then one weekend, I was asked to DJ a graduation party for a family member. I had no idea what I was doing, but I knew what music made me feel good and that's what I played. We had a BLAST! A few years and a few DJ gigs later, I knew I was hooked. Djing became another outlet for me to share my passion with others and I haven't looked back.

Who are your favorite DJ's?

I draw inspiration from a LOT of other DJ's. In fact, I think Djing has made me listen to music differently. It's hard now listening to a song and not thinking about other songs that mix well with it. My current favorites are DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Bee, DJ Jaycee, DJ Skratch Bastid, Rob Swift, Technician the DJ, & DJ Numark. The list goes on and on, but I listen and learn from these guys the most.

Can you describe your style?

Since joining the MMYH team, my DJ style has definitely evolved into a more open format style of DJing. I have DJ'ed weddings and events for people from all walks of life. However, the ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone is having a good time. Experience has taught me to always read the crowd. You can never judge how an event is going to go by what the audience looks like. Flexibility and music knowledge is key!

What makes you different from other DJ's?

I take a lot of pride in getting to know my clients. Choosing a DJ for your wedding or event is not something that should be taken likely. A quality DJ can easily take any event from good to great. I truly believe that active listening, kindness, flexibility, and constant practice is what makes any DJ a great DJ. I'm constantly working on my craft and always striving to be better than I was the day before.