Community Spotlight #2: DJ Oxygen — 25 Years of Moving the Crowd

Def Familia Entertainment’s second Community Spotlight shines on DaShawn Dillard, better known as DJ Oxygen. Born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, DJ Oxygen has spent more than 25 years professionally moving crowds, building a loyal following and providing for his family through his love for music.

His journey began when his older cousin received a pair of turntables for his birthday. Whenever DaShawn stayed at his cousin’s house, he would practice on them. Although he has been DJing professionally for over 25 years, he says he has truly been a DJ since he first fell in love with music at 10 years old.

Before becoming DJ Oxygen, he was known simply as “Ox.” In 2014, his management changed his professional name to Oxygen, although many of his longtime friends still call him Ox today.

DJ Oxygen began taking his talent seriously after becoming an adult and realizing that DJing could provide him with a living. One of the first major moments that made him believe he could truly succeed was performing at an event for Eric B. The room was filled with celebrities, and DJ Oxygen had the entire party rocking.

Although he jokingly admits that slow jams are his favorite, he is best known for playing ’90s and 2000s hip-hop and R&B. What separates DJ Oxygen from other DJs is his ability to create everything live and in real time. He scratches, blends and combines several songs while entertaining the crowd with jokes on the microphone. His skill, creativity and personality allow him to mesmerize his audience and make every performance memorable.

Throughout his career, DJ Oxygen has performed at major events and shows, including Summer Jam in New York City, the Bad Boy Reunion Tour and shows featuring Mary J. Blige. Even after more than 25 years in the industry, he understands that one of the biggest challenges is remaining relevant in a business filled with talented DJs.

His goal is simple: continue improving, stay booked and keep doing what he loves.

DJ Oxygen also shares a special connection with the Deaf community. He says the community embraced him from his very first show with De’Angelo Brown, and he has never forgotten that support. Over the years, he has gained Deaf fans from across the United States and continues showing his love and appreciation for the community. He believes Deaf entertainment needs more advocates like Dee Brown who are willing to stand up for the community and help create opportunities.

Behind his success is a strong and supportive family. DJ Oxygen credits his family—especially his children and parents—for always standing in his corner. Out of everything he has accomplished, he is most proud that DJing has allowed him to take care of his family. To him, that achievement means more than performing at major events or being surrounded by celebrities.

When he is away from the stage, DJ Oxygen is much different from the energetic performer people see behind the turntables. He considers himself a homebody who does not enjoy leaving the house—and he says he can cook like a professional chef.

His advice to young Deaf people who want to become DJs or enter the entertainment industry is to learn the craft first, discover their own style, remain humble and never stop learning.

DJ Oxygen is currently performing on the Top Billing Tour with comedian Bill Bellamy, traveling across the country and appearing at sold-out shows. He also has more concerts and tours coming up. Beyond live performances, he plans to grow his YouTube channel and share more online mixes with fans around the world.

From practicing on his cousin’s turntables in Trenton to performing on major stages, DJ Oxygen’s journey represents talent, dedication, family and longevity. After more than 25 years in the industry, he is still moving crowds, expanding his reach and proving that when you truly learn your craft, your passion can become your purpose.

Follow, support or book DJ Oxygen on Instagram at @originaldjoxygen.

One Vision. One Family. One Movement.