Photo by Marcela Laskoski

From a young age, DJ Jay Sample knew that music would be a big part of his life. Drawing early inspiration from legendary DJs and producers such as Tony Humphries, Larry Levan and DJ Red Alert, Jay’s passion has led him to play at iconic venues and legendary hot spots as Club Zanzibar in New Jersey, the historic Sound Factory Bar in New York City, and featured show and tours in Tokyo, Japan and throughout Asia and Europe. His signature sound became an instant hit on the dance floors of internationally renowned clubs such as Club Yellow, Joy Pack and Double 6, and he has played with acts like Xpress 2, Armand Van Heiden and DJ Toro.

Today, DJ Jay Sample calls Miami his home base, where he can be seen in some of the most exclusive Miami nightclubs and venues. Bringing his infectious blend of house, funk soul, pop and remixed tracks to Miami nightlife and top Miami restaurants Jay Sample will keep the energy very high and the crowd moving.

When did you start DJing and what or who were your early passions and influences?

I started DJing in the late 80s. The sounds from the weekend summer block parties and always being around music made me interested in DJing from my teenage years. Some of my major influences are Larry Levan, DJ Louie Vegs, and Red Alert.

What do you consider to be the most special and high-impact moments in your career?

Playing in Tokyo, Japan, and Korea

Can you give us your thoughts on what makes an amazing set?

An amazing set is a few things: the sound system, the people really feeling and understanding your set, and telling a story with your sets, meaning playing older stuff that people remember at that time, playing happy stuff to get them up, and sometimes playing super deep to mellow it out. You need to be a rollercoaster; your sets cannot just be flat.

Who is your favorite artist on the scene right now and why?

Dua Lipa. Her sound is not just pop, it’s a positive feeling and her music quality and career will last.

Where do you think music is heading next?

Music is going back up and we are going to hear faster tempos and funkier sounds.

What’s your perfect Miami night?

My perfect night out is being outside by the beach around beautiful people, hearing great music, and eating good food at Joia Beach club

What are your some of the off-the-radar hidden gems in Miami?

The Anderson

Favorite quote to live by?

“Always keep it moving never look back!!!”

DJ Jay Sample - Joia Beach Miami