Today we’d like to introduce you to Deej Ragusa
Hi Deej, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Music has always been my language. I’d been singing and performing since I was young and I picked up the guitar at 11. Writing little songs here and there into middle and high school, I did a lot of acting work and studied at SCPA for the rest of my high school years (School for creative and performing arts in OTR) I started playing live music at 14 and tried to gig as often as I could, which is something I still do to this day, playing every weekend is my favorite thing in the world. Once I decided that I wanted to write my own songs rather than read someone else’s script, I wrote like crazy! post high school I went right into a musicians life going on to record, collaborate and organize shows with my band! It seems there’s no slowing down or stopping for me, I’m having the time of my life bringing new and old sounds to new and old ears. Music is something special for everyone, and it’s been my mission in my journey to share it with everybody!
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?
Nothing worth it is ever easy. However, I happily overcome the misunderstandings, industry unfairness and more with a smile on my face because to me it’s the medicine. The hard parts or the parts that make us feel unseen or unheard as artists are usually the best inspiration for more art in the future. It feels good to work hard at music, constantly learning new things and improving on my instruments gives me the best sense of accomplishment. I always want to know I’m not only creating change in this industry in small ways, but inspiring others to do so as well.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m very thrilled to witness my debut album celebrating one year this month! To watch community form around a song or a theme or a concept is so beautiful. I’d like to think I set myself apart visually. There’s something in the magic that dances in my head when I hear music that MUST be shared. I think everyone would be dancing a bit more if we could all see through the lens that album put over my eyes. It’s a special feeling. I wanted to emphasize that magic is very real for me and I think I got the message across. I love using the rawness of instruments to create something that feels magical, especially in a world of whimsical digital sounds. Hearing these songs with the band or with my acoustic duo is so cool. I want my songs to live a new life every time they’re played live and I think i’m making that dream come true right now! I’m so proud of myself and my band. We’ve had so much fun working together and we’re creating such wonderful memories around this music already!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My photographer Syndey has been such a huge part of my journey as an artist. She’s helped me see myself, my own style and unique magic through her lens. We meet almost every week to discuss ideas, things we’re working on, plans for the future, hopes and dreams. It’s the kind of girlhood I’ve always needed as a creative. Someone to daydream and work hard with! We’ve really gotten my vibe down and have such incredible times capturing the performances and creating flyers and things. I’m so lucky to have the small team I have. It’s perfection.
My partner of 8 years and dummer Jacob gets an honorable mention of course. He supports me through everything and growing up, playing and learning about music together is a dream come true. I think we’re soulmates even on the musical plane! We perform monthly shows as an acoustic duo with guitar and cajon, some of the most fun shows are the smaller, raw, acoustic ones with the two of us!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.deejmusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deejgroovy/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@deejjrr?si=E8axqmSA0AR6HeBW
