FINDING MY FREQUENCY: A JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC AND RADIO

June 28, 2025 Lifestyle

Music has always been more than just sound to me it’s been a lifelong companion, a source of comfort, and the rhythm that keeps me moving forward. From a young age, I was drawn to melody and rhythm like a moth to a flame. I can still picture my childhood self singing at the top of my lungs, dancing around the living room without a care in the world. What began as a playful joy quickly evolved into a deep, abiding passion. For eight years, I studied the violin, immersing myself in classical technique and learning to appreciate the beauty of composition and structure.

It wasn’t always easy there were moments of frustration and fatigue but I kept coming back to that instrument because it gave me a voice. That experience taught me discipline, patience, and, most importantly, how to listen. Not just to notes, but to the emotion behind them. Today, those years of training have deeply influenced how I approach music as a DJ. They taught me that music isn’t just heard it’s felt. Radio, too, has always been in my blood. My mother, a veteran in the industry with over three decades of experience, was my first role model. Watching her work was like witnessing magic. She had this incredible ability to connect with people she couldn’t even see, using nothing but her voice and the perfect playlist. I grew up in the studio, learning the ropes from one of the best.

She showed me that being on the air isn’t just about playing music. it’s about storytelling, creating a space for people to feel understood, seen, and heard. Musical legends like Michael Jackson and Drake have shaped my tastes over the years, but I’ve never been one to stick to just one lane. I love exploring how different genres and generations intersect and how a beat from the ’80s can blend with a modern hook to create something fresh yet familiar. I see DJing as an art form. it’s about crafting a mood, guiding people on a journey, and stitching songs together in a way that feels effortless, yet intentional. Today, I bring that love and creativity to the airwaves of 98.7 Z-Radio, where I host three unique shows each week. Every show is a reflection of a different part of my musical identity.

A way to share not only the songs I love, but the stories they tell. Tuesdays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, I dive into the vibrant, neon-lit world of the ’80s with my show “Untitled.” I take listeners on a nostalgic ride through timeless hits by artists like Pet Shop Boys, Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, and of course, Michael Jackson. There’s something truly special about that era the synthesizers, the boldness, the innovation. It was a time when music videos were king and artists weren’t afraid to experiment. I love recreating that magic, giving people a chance to relive it or discover it for the first time. Wednesdays, I switch things up with “On & On,” a celebration of ’90s music that runs from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Here, I highlight artists like Usher, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo. artists who helped define a generation and shape the sounds we still hear today. From the raw emotion of R&B to the golden age of hip-hop, the ’90s were a turning point in music. I strive to honor that legacy with every track I play. And then, there’s Fridays, my favorite day of the week, When I host “Sweet Distractions” a smooth, laid-back blend of neo-soul, R&B, and contemporary hip-hop. From the soulful flows of Drake to the sensual grooves of Rihanna and Chris Brown, this show is all about unwinding and letting the music carry you. It’s the perfect way to ease into the weekend, and I love creating a vibe that’s both modern and soulful. My mixing style is about balance merging old and new, energetic and mellow, familiar and unexpected.

I take pride in crafting sets that feel cohesive and curated, not just shuffled together. Every transition, every beat drop, is intentional. I want my listeners to feel like they’re being taken on a journey. one that taps into their memories, emotions, and dreams. Being a DJ has taught me that music truly is a universal language. It crosses borders, bridges generations, and speaks to the soul. Whether you’re driving home from work, cooking dinner, or just relaxing after a long day, there’s something powerful about finding a song that feels like it was meant for you in that moment.

If you’re thinking about becoming a radio DJ, my advice is simple: follow your passion. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. start where you are, and let your love for music lead the way. Learn from others, stay curious, and never be afraid to let your personality shine through the music. Tune in to 98.7 Z-Radio. Let’s connect through the melodies that move us, the rhythms that bring us joy, and the stories we tell through song. I’m here to provide the soundtrack to your day and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Millard Gregorio / UC-Intern