BEYOND THE TURNTABLES | DJ Waffles
INTERVIEW TERRELL “REALIFE” BLACK PHOTOGRAPH @OneNightATL
From the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the pulsating heart of Atlanta’s entertainment scene, DJ Waffles has built a career that is as dynamic as it is diverse. Known for his ability to blend his love for music with a keen entrepreneurial spirit, DJ Waffles has grown from a local DJ to a multi-faceted entertainment mogul. His unique journey has led to the creation of “Waffles Weekend”, an annual 4-day event that has quickly become a staple in the Atlanta community, bringing together music, business, food, and culture in a way that only DJ Waffles can. But his talents don’t stop there—he’s also made waves with his signature waffle mixes, blending flavors as creatively as he does beats, and his platform “The Padded Room”, which gives indie artists and entrepreneurs a stage to showcase their talents. The last time we spoke was in 2018, and since then, DJ Waffles has been steadily building his empire. Today, we catch up with the man behind the name to discuss his ever-expanding vision, the growth of “Waffles Weekend”, and what the future holds for this unstoppable force in music and business.
VALIDATED: I last interviewed you in 2018, and a lot has changed since then. You've been working hard and really building a name for yourself. We'll dive into all of that, but I'm curious—did you have this vision mapped out back then?
DJ WAFFLES: Yes, I did. The vision was to create a well-rounded entertainment company, whether creating food experiences, helping develop artists in my community, creating opportunities to give back by curating charity events, and more. So I had a great vision and had to create a game plan to make it all work, and here we are.
VALIDATED: Born in Brooklyn and now living in Atlanta, how do both cities shape your taste in music and your ability to spot talent? Do you think this gives you an edge?
DJ WAFFLES: Yooo! I’m from the mecca of hip-hop, so you already know. But honestly, growing up in the time that I did, I was exposed to so many different genre's of music; it made my musical palette very diverse, and I am able to incorporate that into what I do. I definitely feel like it makes me able to curate amazing experiences musically because I have such a well-rounded ear for music.
VALIDATED: You recently hosted Waffles Weekend in Atlanta for the third consecutive year. For those who aren’t familiar with it, what can you tell us about the event and its purpose?
DJ WAFFLES: It’s a 4-day event, and during this time there are five events that occur. We have speaker panels that discuss entertainment business, finance, sports competitions, food experiences and live performances. The main focus is to create fun and safe events and educational opportunities for the community.
VALIDATED: What inspired you to create Waffles Weekend, and how has it evolved since the first event?
DJ WAFFLES: As an entertainment curator, I have performed at and attended many other music events. Sometimes I would critique these events and say, “Hey, how could I make the experience better?” Since the first Waffles Weekend, I have added more performance opportunities. My sponsorship has grown greatly, and we have been able to give more back to the community due to the visibility and growth of the event.
VALIDATED: What were some standout moments from this year’s event that you’re particularly proud of?
DJ WAFFLES: While attending the 3rd annual Waffles Weekend, I was given a proclamation from the city of Lithonia, Georgia by the Mayor Keisha Reynolds. This let me know I am on the right path.
VALIDATED: What role do you see Waffles Weekend playing in the broader culture of music and entertainment in Atlanta?
DJ WAFFLES: I feel Waffles Weekend would be a staple in the culture for the world to enjoy. I would love for it to grow, deliver, and experience like no other festival.
VALIDATED: As you look toward the next Waffles Weekend, what are your goals? Are you planning any changes or new features? What can fans and attendees anticipate from next year’s Waffles Weekend?
DJ WAFFLES: 2025 will be bigger and better. More activities and a safe space for indie artists and business owners. I will be moving the weekend into a festival process.
VALIDATED: Do you see Waffles Weekend expanding beyond Atlanta, or are there plans to introduce it to other cities?
DJ WAFFLES: I would love for it to be extended to other cities. I would love to do it in New York and Los Angeles as well.
VALIDATED: Is there anything you’d like to say to those who attended or supported the event this year?
DJ WAFFLES: I would say to them, I love everyone. I could not have done it without the people. Thank you to my team, Leigh and Naye for their support.
VALIDATED: You're also enthusiastic about cooking, particularly breakfast. What sparked the idea to start selling your signature waffle mixes, and how did it come about?
DJ WAFFLES: It was 2022 when I wanted to go into cooking after everyone around me was telling me about cooking my own waffles. So I took a shot at it, and it worked. My mom was a chef, so I think I was blessed with the talent from her as well.
VALIDATED: How did you go about developing your waffle recipes? Did you collaborate with chefs or experiment on your own?
DJ WAFFLES: I developed my own recipes by trial and error. Now I have multiple flavor mixes, and I can create just about any flavor waffles or creation with my original mix.
VALIDATED: What sets your waffles apart, and have you received any standout feedback from fans or customers?
DJ WAFFLES: I make a better waffle mix than anyone else, and it also works well for pancakes. The customers love it and feedback has been amazing. I have served celebrities such as Debra Antney and K Camp.
VERIFIED: Out of all your waffle mix recipes, which is your personal favorite and appears to be the most well-liked?
DJ WAFFLES: It would be a Salon and Cream Chesse-filled waffle with dragon fruit syrup on top. It hit differently!
Validated: Where can people find your waffles? Are you selling them online, at pop-ups, or through a brick-and-mortar location?
DJ WAFFLES: People usually would go online to www.djwafflesmix.com . Also, if you tune into my social media, I can direct the fans to my next event. If you would like to purchase from a brick and mortar, you can go to Sea Salt in GA.
VALIDATED: You also developed "The Padded Room." What inspired you to create this platform, and what was your initial vision for it?
DJ WAFFLES: The reason for me creating the Padded Room platform was to give indie artists and entrepreneurs the opportunity to be heard by the world.
VALIDATED: How did the name "The Padded Room" come about, and what does it signify for you and your audience?
DJ WAFFLES: When you think Padded Room, you think the crazy house. I chose it as a room where you can do what you want, no restraints to keep you locked in. It’s a safe space to be great.
VALIDATED: Who are some of the most memorable guests you've had on 'The Padded Room'?
DJ WAFFLES: The most memorable guest that were on my show are Charlamagne Tha God, Debra Antney, Latto, Michael J Mc Donald, 19 Keys, and Spice to name a few.
VALIDATED: Can you share a memorable moment or episode from "The Padded Room" that stands out to you?
DJ WAFFLES: I had a interview with Safaree from Love and Hip Hop New York and we had a dance battle. This show was lit.
VALIDATED: How do you balance running "The Padded Room" with your other projects and responsibilities as a DJ and entrepreneur?
DJ WAFFLES: Balance is key! I try to make time for all endeavors. Sometime I can get board and I will start to create more business opportunities.
VALIDATED: What advice would you offer to other creatives looking to explore new industries or start their own business?
DJ WAFFLES: Take your time and don’t skip steps. Also get you a mentor to help guide you. We all need a road map in life especially in a new feild that you would love to excel in.
VALIDATED: What’s next for DJ Waffles?
DJ WAFFLES: More events, more giving back, more shows, and being able to connect with bigger brands in the future.
VALIDATED: Where can we follow and support all of your endeavors?
DJ WAFFLES: You can find me on all social media platforms at DJ_Waffles.