DJG . A NEW PORT OF CALL
YACHT PARTIES & VIP EVENTS
In a region where elegance rubs shoulders with hedonism, entertainment options on the French Riviera must be a showcase for excellence.
Amid a spectacular calendar of private and corporate events, Club Vivanova speaks to one of the professionals who asserts himself as a memorable addition to the yearly schedule of VIP events and yacht parties during Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix and Monaco Yacht Show.
Gary Smith, professionally known as DJG, inspires listeners with his uplifting energy as he plays soulful house music to global audiences. “Being an international DJ, I have worked with some fantastic brands including Stars and Bars Monaco where I play during the Monaco Yacht Show to Virgin Sport and Kate Spade New York,” Gary says. DJG is a regular fixture at the Oscars, Golden Globes and top events on the French Riviera.
Did DJ’ing or Music Production come first?
I took music lessons as a child – learning to play the clarinet and drums – so music has always been a strong focus for me. Growing up, I was influenced by blues, jazz and reggae and played at friends parties before concentrating more on DJ’ing. Producing followed later.
This year has been a rollercoaster for events with venue cancellations and travel restrictions affecting live music. What methods have you used to adapt and how do you deliver the same atmosphere when you can’t be physically present in person?
I have been fortunate in past years to travel across the world to famous cities and social events. I’ve performed at the Golden Globes and last year we were invited to perform at Durkin Entertainment’s Oscars pre-gifting suite at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. This event garnered over 2.2 billion media views from local Los Angeles media such as The Hollywood Reporter, Hollywood Life and KTLA 5, to globally viewed platforms such as Entertainment Tonight, BBC America and The Daily Mail. I have hosted Instagram takeovers – including the Superyacht Brands page – where I can share my music, regardless where people are located in the world. Digital platforms such as Twitter, Mixcloud and Zoom give me the ability to host online parties and keep entertaining.
Where do you get inspiration from?
Music is a respected medium that has become so much more than production or innovation. It breaks down language and age barriers, whether you’re at a high-profile event or a local gig. My family is a source of inspiration for me – my wife films each performance and my son is a dancer. As well, my 89-year old mother has a generous nature and this greatly impacts my motivation to make people happy!
How do you view the relationship between social media and musical expression?
Social media is constantly changing so we have to adapt. It’s another avenue to reach listeners of all genres. Music is about emotion and you can ignite a memory, cheer someone up or educate an audience.
What’s your favourite track of all time that never fails to get a great reaction?
Over time, my music tastes have evolved so it changes day-to-day, but I still love playing Jill Scott’s “Golden”(Soulful House Remix).
What are your hopes for your career in the next 12 months, especially with venues and live events in limbo?
I’m looking forward to exchanging my skills and expertise with world-class brands and trying to launch my music into feature films and television productions.
Superyacht owners, luxury brands and royalty are all drawn to entrepreneurial people. It’s crystal clear that DJG’s celebration of life through music is his recipe for success in the entertainment industry.
For more information have a look at the website
Article by Rebecca Whitlocke
