CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26
You have been described as a DJ, aspiring actor,
designer, music producer, and entrepreneur. What
one title do you prefer or is there a title that would
cover all the above?
Music has been a huge part of my life for so long but
today I feel I am best described as entrepreneur that is
involved in every aspect surrounding music. I’ll always
be a DJ because that is where my roots came from.
However, I am involved in everything from producing to
representing artist.
Do you favor or consider yourself stronger at any one
role/title mentioned above?
I don’t at all because I’m passionate about all it!
How old are you?
23
Who is Josh Acoff personally?
Honestly, I’m just kid from rural Alabama that always
believed anything is possible and life does not have a
ceiling. People often say “the sky is limit.” I feel there
is no limit!
Where did you grow up? (Explain what growing up
was like for Josh Acoff and how it affected who you
are today)
I grew up in Alabama and was raised by a single Mother.
We experienced a lot of struggle and adversity. Having
nothing has made me appreciate everything. I was
fortunate to dream big because most of the people
from where I grew up never had any other picture
than struggle. I used the adversity as a motivation to
succeed.
How long have you been involved in music and how
would you describe DJ Acoff when he started?
I have been involved in music since I was a little kid.
I grew up playing instruments in our church and I was
I did so off my phone because I did not have enough
money to buy DJ equipment. While all friends were
playing video games I would be playing music. They
became my audience and would let me know if what
I was playing was dope or not. What is crazy, when I
For no reason and to this day don’t know why but when
you’re struggling you don’t ask questions. I gave my
Mother half to help out the family. I took the other half
and purchased DJ equipment. It was like an angel was
helping me achieve my passion. Game changer!
Why did you get involved in music?
It gave me an escape and no matter how I was feeling
music always put me in a better place.
Sean Combs (P Diddy) and Dr. Dre. Especially Dre
because he started as a DJ and became a mega
producer.
2288
Who were your favorite three artists at age 13, 18
and now today?
At age 13 I was into 50 Cent, at 18 I went back to Tupac
and today I’m really feeling LIL UZI VERT.
How long have been in Tampa and why the move?
I’ve been in Tampa for only six months. I moved from
Atlanta because I felt there was more opportunity in
Tampa. Atlanta is already a huge music city. I want to
create Tampa to be the same.
Tampa has a long history in music dating back to 1910
but best known for the blues movement throughout
the 1930-40’s. The Central Ave District attracted artists
like Ray Charles, Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, James
Brown, and many others. It has been said the dance
The Twist was invented on Central Avenue, inspiring the
song created by Hank Ballard, which was later made
famous by Chubby Checker.
Today Tampa is breathing again and a ton of exciting
changes are happening. How do you see the Tampa
music scene now and in the future?
growth will only bring even more talent.
Tampa?
Yes, I know I will. I’m in the right place at the right time
and I’m surrounding myself with amazing people. I have
the passion and drive and won’t stop until I make it
happen.
What is your favorite Tampa restaurant?
The Big Easy in Ybor City.
Where is your favorite Tampa hangout?
The beach hands down! Growing up in Alabama I never
experienced beaches. My nightspot would be Franklin
Manor. I love the vibe there.
Is Dj Acoff single?
Yes single as a pringle.
If you were hosting a party for friends, what would
you wear, what would you be drinking, and what
I would be in Gucci drinking Husky Vodka listening to
21 Savage.
What is your favorite non-music related activity?
One reason I love Tampa is we are surrounded by water
and I love to be out on a boat and just relax and chill on
the water. It gives me sense of peace.
Explain success in one word?
could not be explained in one word.
What motivates you?
My family is my biggest motivation. When I think of
where we came from and how far I’ve been able to
succeed it continues to drive me to never want to go
back to the struggle.