Check Out Daniel Byrd’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Byrd.

Daniel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

I’m a full-time DJ here in San Diego and I also produce techno music. I was born in Hawaii, raised in Colorado, and moved to San Diego after college.

Music has always been a cornerstone of my life. My parents’ love and passion for music passed down to me. As a kid, I loved to collect tapes and records. I have always had an artistic side to me and was always looking for a creative outlet.

My journey with DJing began in high school when I first touched turntables. By my freshman year of college, I was already deeply immersed, buying my own set of turntables and dedicating hours in my bedroom learning how to DJ. I got my first gig in Scottsdale, Arizona, while I was in college and I realized how much I loved performing.

When I moved to San Diego, I was hesitant to continue DJing because I was intimidated by the local talent and some of my DJ equipment broke.

After a brief hiatus, I discovered a program called Virtual DJ that reignited my passion. With only a computer, I started creating mash-ups and remixes. Thanks to the support of a good friend who didn’t want me to give up my DJ dream I got quickly back into DJing events after he surprised me with a new controller.

I began by taking every gig I could, building my reputation in small bars and opening spots. Notable milestones include DJing for Afterdark’s yacht parties and the Five Group. My connection with Kerry Glass, who I met through DJ Ramsey’s Trap Tuesday, led to me joining the Sleeping Giant roster.

Over the years, I’ve loved performing at various types of events in many different cities. Some of my favorite gigs have been in Cabo San Lucas, Denver, Los Angeles, and at Kaaboo’s Silent Disco in San Diego for over 1500 people. I have monthly residencies at The Holding Company in Ocean Beach every second Friday and Texture, a techno-focused night with Josh Taylor on the fourth Thursday of each month, and you can find me at the Trailer Park After Dark on various nights of the month.

I ventured into producing techno music in 2019, releasing my debut track “Love or Fear” on Quite Right Records in 2020. I’ve since signed with Techniche Recordings and Blok Records in Poland, with new music set to release next month through Angry Dog Records. My goal is to continue DJing, releasing music, and eventually touring and playing at music festivals.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey as a DJ and techno producer has been shaped by a series of significant challenges. Coming from humble beginnings, I didn’t have a network or industry connections when I first started. Moving to a new city, I found myself starting from scratch, without the benefit of existing relationships or a support system and I taught myself everything I know about DJing.

In the early stages of my career, I had to navigate a lot of obstacles. I took every opportunity to play, regardless of the size of the venue or audience. This meant performing in small rooms with sparse crowds and accepting gigs that paid very little. Each set, no matter how small, was a chance to hone my skills and build my reputation.

Transitioning into techno production has been equally challenging. Staying motivated in the studio can be difficult, especially when progress feels slow. Crafting a unique sound and building a fan base from scratch involves a lot of trial and error. The process of getting my music heard and appreciated is an ongoing struggle, as is securing higher-profile gigs for DJing. Even now, as I continue to grow, the journey remains tough. Balancing creativity with the business side of music, such as promoting my work and managing bookings, requires constant effort. There are moments when the challenges seem overwhelming, but I remain persistent because of my passion for music and my love for what I do.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As DJ Byrd, my work centers around creating unforgettable experiences through music. I’ve dedicated myself wholeheartedly to reaching this point, and it’s been an incredible journey. Whether I’m behind the decks or in the studio, my objective is to bring high energy and uplifting vibes to every moment. When I’m DJing, I aim to connect with the audience and ensure everyone feels the positive energy that music can bring. I love witnessing people lose themselves in the music, dancing, and having a great time. In the studio, I pour my heart into producing tracks that reflect the same energy and excitement. For me, it’s not just about playing tracks or making music—it’s about creating moments of joy and connection.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me isn’t just about external markers like fame or financial gain. It’s deeply connected to finding fulfillment in the things I’m passionate about. As a DJ and techno producer, success is about creating music that resonates with people and brings joy to both myself and my audience. It’s about the satisfaction of seeing my creative vision come to life and having a positive impact on others through my art. Success is also about personal growth and staying true to my artistic integrity. It involves continuously evolving as an artist, mastering new skills, and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. Achieving a sense of fulfillment in my work, regardless of its scale, means that I’m staying aligned with my passion and making a genuine contribution to the world of music. Additionally, success for me is measured by the connections I build with my audience and peers. It’s the shared experiences at shows, the feedback from listeners, and the collaborative relationships that enrich my journey. When I look back and see that I’ve grown both as an artist and as a person and that I’ve made a meaningful impact, I consider that to be true success.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byrd.techno/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djbyrd619x
• soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/byrdmp3