Business Spotlight: DJ Cruze CTRL

Joshua Langford, also known as DJ Cruze CTRL, has been in business for the past 2 years as a local favorite. He is an IU grad, raised in New Jersey. He is a longtime musician, that is classically trained. He decided to pursue modern music and DJing to turn music into a service in demand. 

He has been the DJ for the last two Ten Under 40 events at the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce and is one of the Black-Owned Business members. 

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Questions & Answers

What motivated you to start your own business? How did you develop the skills to start your own business?
​Inspired by turntablists to learn true DJing and turntablism. This art form has been widely neglected by all people in my opinion due to people not taking it seriously and it being a primarily black art. Going into DJing seemed natural for someone with a musical background and a passion for "real" hip-hop.

What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?
My aspiration and willingness to devote time to practicing actual turntablism and mixing sets me apart from other "DJs" that refuse to take the art seriously, refuse to practice fundamental turntablism techniques, and rely wholly on marketing schemes and gimmicks that only help deteriorate the art of DJing.

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What makes your business stand out from other businesses in Bloomington?
I am one of the few DJs who have put in the time and money to acquire the necessary equipment and skills to be on the path to inevitable success in this industry. My years in Bloomington attempting to "network" with other "DJs" have confirmed this.

What has been your biggest success to date?
Establishing a residency with Next Door Eatery, becoming an official vendor for IU for my DJ service, DJing for the national swimming invitational in Northern Indiana, etc.

What has been your biggest challenge?
Building a dedicated following that can help draw the attention of venues who rely heavily on social media presence rather than talent.

What are your plans for the future of your business?
​Expand, create more ways to reach new clients.

To learn more about DJ Cruze CTRL, find him at www.djcruzectrl.com or on Social Media as "Cruze CTRL"