Today we’d like to introduce you to DJ Brian Howe.
Hi DJ Brian, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m originally from Northern California but have called Colorado home since 2004.
Early Beginnings
My journey into music started early. I grew up surrounded by music and rhythm and was drawn to rock music (from my parents) and electronic music (as a teen break dancer). I started experimenting with beats as a teenager using basic gear, driven purely by curiosity and the desire to make people move.
Becoming a DJ
I started DJing at 15, learning what made crowds come alive and what kind of DJ I wanted to be. My sound quickly evolved into a blend of mainstream pop, dance, house, and electronic with a focus on “female-friendly party hits” — fun, high-energy music that connects people. That signature vibe led to residencies and guest sets around the region, where every performance became about storytelling through rhythm and energy.
Embracing Technology & the Video Remix Era
I’ve always loved embracing new technology to elevate my sets. I moved from vinyl to CD when pitch control arrived, and around 2005 I fully adopted MP3s once I discovered Serato Scratch Live during an event in Miami. A year later, in 2006, I jumped into video remixing — a game changer. My mashup of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” with Family Guy went viral, earning over 2.2 million views and even getting shared by Steve Perry (original lead singer of Journey) himself. That moment helped launch me globally, leading to years of producing video remixes for major remix services, record labels, and DJ pools worldwide. I retired from video remixing around 2011.
Music Production & Brand Growth
My first professional studio job came in my early 20s in Marin County, working alongside iconic artists like Grateful Dead, Huey Lewis & The News, and Metallica. By the late ’90s, I had transitioned into producing music for live shows and the fitness industry — blending energy, emotion, and nostalgia into what became the DJ Brian Howe sound: bold, high-energy, and unforgettable.
Global Recognition & Today
My recognition as a remix producer got me a bi-weekly show on XM Radio’s “Air 81” (on BPM). As my brand grew through the DJ community, I launched djbrianhowe.com and @djbrianhowe across platforms to reach fans globally. My content now spans syndicated radio shows, streaming mixes, curated playlists, and original productions on Spotify, Mixcloud, Apple Music, and beyond.
Today, I consider myself not just a DJ, but a curator of experiences. My newest live project, “THROWBACK THROWDOWN,” celebrates nostalgia with remixed party hits and singalongs — the ultimate “way back” vibe with a modern remix twist. You can check out upcoming public shows on my site.
Through it all, my mission hasn’t changed — to connect people through rhythm, celebrate sound, and keep pushing the boundaries of electronic music. “Do What You Love. Love What You Do”.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Absolutely not! I’ve tried to “retire” more than a few times over the years — it never sticks.
As a DJ, there were moments I felt too old, out of touch, or simply burned out. The hardest part has always been trying to be everywhere at once. There are only so many weekends and too many events happening at the same time. To handle the demand, I built a multi-op business with other DJs and techs, but no one could fully replace my passion or attention to detail — and that became my biggest struggle.
Client expectations were another challenge. With my reputation and brand, anything less than perfect wasn’t acceptable. The pressure to deliver a flawless experience every single time led to stress and anxiety. Eventually, I stepped away from large events and focused on projects that gave me creative freedom — something that took years to reclaim.
As a music producer, I faced a different challenge — monotony. The endless editing, repetitive mixing, and tight deadlines drained the joy out of the process. Trying to give 100% to both DJing and production, while maintaining a personal life, was overwhelming.
Finding balance between passion, professionalism, and peace hasn’t been easy — but it’s an ongoing journey I’ve learned to embrace.
TODAY – I’m reclaiming my passion and joy for both DJ’ing and producing new original music and artist/label remixes that I can stand behind.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a professional DJ and music producer who’s spent almost 40 years behind the decks and in the studio, creating experiences that connect people through sound. My work has always centered on the art of storytelling through music — crafting sets and productions that take audiences on a journey, whether it’s in an intimate lounge or a massive festival environment.
What I specialize in is bridging the gap between technical precision and emotional connection. As a DJ, I’m known for my seamless transitions, deep understanding of rhythm, and ability to read a crowd in real time. As a music producer, I focus on creating tracks that blend energy, melody, and atmosphere — the same ingredients that define my live performances.
I LOVE CONNECTING WITH PEOPLE. MUSIC HELPS ME DO THIS.
Over the years, I’ve built a reputation for delivering high-quality, passionate performances that prioritize the listener’s experience above all else. That commitment to quality led me to create my own multi-op DJ business, expand into creative production work, and mentor upcoming talent along the way.
What I’m most proud of is my longevity and authenticity in this industry. I’ve tried to “retire” more than once, but my love for music keeps pulling me back. I’m proud of the evolution — from nightclub residencies to producing original tracks, to rediscovering my passion on my own creative terms.
What sets me apart is my experience and perfectionism — but more importantly, my authenticity. I don’t just play music; I build experiences that people remember. For me, success has never been about fame or numbers — it’s about connection, emotion, and leaving every event or track better than the last.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Mentoring — and being mentored — is essential to both personal and professional growth.
Too often, people listen to respond rather than to learn. When faced with feedback or constructive criticism, many instinctively defend their choices instead of pausing to consider how they can improve. True growth begins with the willingness to listen, learn, and evolve.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance of those who came before me — people who opened doors, shared wisdom, and paved the way for my success. There’s an incredible community of talented individuals out there, many eager to share their experiences and knowledge. All you have to do is ask, and more importantly, be willing to listen.
But mentorship isn’t a one-way street. Don’t just take — give. If someone’s advice, mentorship, or encouragement helped advance your career, pay it forward. Become the mentor for the next generation. Behind you are aspiring artists and professionals eager to learn, grow, and make their mark.
When we share what we’ve learned, we strengthen the industry as a whole — preserving its quality, integrity, and passion for the future.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://djbrianhowe.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djbrianhowe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djbrianhowe/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@djbrianhowe
- soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/djbrianhowe
- Other: https://www.patreon.com/djbrianhowe
