We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Craft and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jordan, how do you think about risk?
I look at it two ways; either is handed to you or you have to go take it for yourself. Everything in life is a risk. It’s a risk getting in your car, it’s a risk going to the store now. Taking risks has been the only way I’ve been able to create any level of success for myself. As a Black male, making up only 6% of the state’s population, everything is a risk. And it’s one I have to take

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I am a curator of sound; I think my selection sets myself apart from many DJs as well as the skill that is involved. I am no Chris Karns or Jazzy Jeff but they are influences of mine no doubt and I can set a tone like none other.

In the midst of the pandemic, I was able to remain constantly busy doing Silent Disco events with my partners Discreet Beats as well as get my first major set opening at Grid Life Festival just south of Colorado Springs at Pikes Peak International Raceway opening for Ramirez, Yung Gravy and Suicide Boys. That was a huge deal for me getting to be apart of something so large. I definitely shed some tears during my set while 3000+ people rocked with me. So I hope to follow that up in 2022.

My journey has been nothing short of difficult. I started rapping at a young age and went on tour with big artists at the time like Bone Thugs and Harmony, Twista and opened for many other rap artists. I spent every dime and every waking moment trying to make that dream happen. As you can tell, that didn’t work out lol. All I can say is never give up if you absolutely love it. I rebranded myself and found something within the same vein that allowed me to continue my love for music. With that being said, I am shifting more of my focus to production in 2022 and will be working under the monikers CRFTD_SND (Crafted Sound) and SpaceCraft. While I’ll still be DJing here and there, I am going to take over in the House music and Future Beats lanes. This is important to not only my growth but being able to represent my city and state with the likes of Lane 8, Illenium and others who have made their paths in Colorado when others say it can’t be done

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I reside in Colorado Springs. So for us, you have to visit my resident venue, COATI Uprise downtown. I have a weekly brunch party there every Sunday called Doses and Mimosas and it is the premier spot to chill and vibe in southern Colorado. Multiple restaurants and two bars in one location.

Our nature scene is one of the best around with the Garden of the Gods, Manitou Incline, Pikes Peak and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. So if you’re into the outdoors, you have to visit those places. I go to Denver a lot and to me, the number one destination by far is Red Rocks. It is the most magical place on Earth and it is a bucket list location for anyone I think. I feel lucky to have that in my backyard. I go to at least 10 concerts a year there.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Early on in life, male influence was not very prevalent. I had older brothers who were trying to figure out life themselves and weren’t always great role models but my grandfather Henry C. Craft, was the one to give me structure, teach me about morals and integrity and hard work. My former boss Charles ‘Chuck’ Reynolds taught me the skills to lead in a professional setting and I apply what I learned from him daily. Lastly, my wife has been there from the beginning pushing me to follow my dreams. She has been a pivotal piece of my life and I would not be anywhere I am now without her.

Website: djcraftmatic.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/dj_craftmatic

Twitter: Twitter.com/dj_craftmatic

Facebook: Facebook.com/CraftmaticTheDJ

Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/JustAboutCash674

Other: https://www.sonicbids.com/band/dj-craftmatic/

Image Credits
Patrik Essy – Maybe Someday Media Ethan Klement – Maybe Someday Media Kyle Brim – Maybe Someday Media

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.