Conversations with Adi Tamarapoo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adi Tamarapoo.

Hi Adi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
DJ Dholak had originally started as a duo between my best friend Meki McCoy and I. The name was inspired by our friend Noah Beny who had told us to pick something that is meaningful to us as our DJ Name and due to my history of playing Indian Drums, DJ Dholak was born. After the start of a collective/event company, Defiant Frequencies owned by my friends and I, Meki and I decided to become separate DJ entities. Through alot of hardwork, countless hours, grit and amazing people giving us opportunities, I have made my way into music festival lineups. It’s even more special because I get to also share those moments with my Defiant Frequencies family.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Smooth is about the opposite of what this road has been. Facing rejection and the countless hours put into curating sets, staying organized and putting your body through late nights are just some of the grueling struggles that have been there. Aside from that, the mental toll it takes on you is hard as well but at the end of the day this lifestyle is so rewarding and worth it.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am known for being a DJ in columbus and honestly the thing I am most proud of is when I look into the crowd and feel that unified connection where our energies feed off each other while listening to the same music. What I feel sets me apart is I play bollywood music in my sets and bring out the Dholak live at certain sets.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I was always a wild child but the one thing that always interested me was music. I played sports growing up but msuic was always what stuck with me more. My parents and brotrher were my inspiration behind my love of music. They always pushed me to do more with my music and as the years went by my interest in my music grew.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @dj_dholak