Anything DJ

By Paula J. McGarvey - 05/09/2009

Photo courtesy of Mark "Wade" Johnson Mark "Wade" Johnson is "DJ Marky Jz" of Anything DJ. Johnson provides music from classic '50s to Hip Hop at functions ranging from weddings to fundraisers.

Anything DJ 1493 Easy St. in Butte 491-5578 www.anythingdj.com Business history: Mark "Wade" Johnson has come a long way from when his mother used to yell at him to turn down his stereo. He decided to make his love of music work for him and launched his own DJ business, Anything DJ, earlier this year.

Johnson, 28, said that for him, becoming a professional DJ was a natural progression.

"It started out as kind of a hobby," he said.

He had the equipment, having already gathered a large collection of electronics and CDs. He had experience; earned while providing entertainment at more than his share of parties, weddings and fundraisers for family and friends. He began to seriously consider offering his DJ service for hire.

"I decided to get a business license and go after it as a profession," he said.

Although he hasn't quit his day job, working in sales in the electronics department of a local retail store, Johnson has launched a Web site, www.anythingdj.com. He has been taking on professional DJ gigs for the past few months — and loving every minute of it.

"Find something you like to do, and in 20 years it won't feel like you've worked a day in your life," he said.

Products, services and specialties: Anything DJ provides professional lighting, sound and music for events including reunions, weddings, engagement parties, fundraisers, corporate parties and bar and tavern promotions.

"I've got a pretty wide variety of music," Johnson added.

His music library covers '50s favorites, classic rock, country, rock'n'roll, R&B and Hip Hop. Business philosophy: "Work hard and good things will happen," he said.

Advice for others wanting to start a business: Johnson advises entrepreneurs to know their market.

"Always think about your customer first," he said.

Good communication is also important, he said.

"Always be very clear ... make sure everything is straightforward and understood prior to the job," he said.

Has the ongoing recession affected your business? From the perspective of his new business, Johnson replied: "I can't really say that I know. I'll tell you in a year." He did have an observation from his day job in retail sales.

"People are definitely more conservative with their money," he said.

Rewards and challenges of doing business: "The rewards are meeting new people and making new friends. The challenges would be figuring out what your next step is and where you're going to go," he said.

Future plans: "What I'm focusing on this year is getting my name out," he said.

Johnson added that he hoped to continue to expand his DJ services throughout Butte and into the surrounding areas.

Got an idea for a business spotlight? Contact Montana Standard correspondent Paula J. McGarvey at 782-6510 or e-mail paulajmc@msn.com.