Macon Magazine

audiences needed to dance and feel joy, and DJs needed the creative outlet – but they also needed to make a living. Artists and musicians are no stranger to the side hustle. During this uncertain, socially distant time, some DJs have had to explore other ways to generate income while waiting to return to the booth. Choosing to pursue DJing as a professional, full-time career requires passion, creativity, skill and tenacity. One thing every good DJ has in common? ey want to play music that makes you feel good. Yeah, you. As we slowly and safely reopen venues and host events again, consider getting outside of your comfort zone and checking out a set or two by one of the many talented DJs who call Macon home – and stay tuned to learn more about what makes a handful of them tick. SHIRLEY ELLIS got her start when WIBB program director George reatt Jr., better known as Big George, hired her fresh out of college in 1982. "Music is the fabric of my life. I grew up with the Motown sound," said Ellis, originally from Detroit, "and WIBB was iconic, one of the first stations to play black music." Big George learned his craft under Swain's tutelage, and he saw a worthy successor in enthusiastic young Ellis. "He taught me everything I know," Ellis said. "He was instrumental in making sure I realized the importance of our community." When Big George passed away in November 2019, Ellis spoke at his funeral. "His death made me reflect," she said. "He hired me when I knew nothing, and wow, I've still got this career. If not for Big George, there'd be no me. He taught us to give back, and I do. I reach out to young people and help them get jobs and internships, introduce them to people in the industry, the same way Big George did with us." Ellis is able to reach a wide audience thanks to her job at Fort Valley State University, where she's worked as a trainer, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SHIRLEY ELLIS, BARRY FICKLIN AND TEDDY HERNANDEZ S 36 maconmagazine.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020

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