Melissa Mahon, also known as Double M, is a 20 year-old female DJ, born in the UK. Melissa grew up surrounded by music with a family and culture eager to perform. To musical parents and later on surrounded by DJs such as DJ Simply E. Melissa would refine and continue to improve her talents more as she progressed.
5678: What inspired you to pursue music?
“Growing up, I was always passionate about music, and having a family full of music lovers. My dad is a DJ, and this inspired me even more to pursue a career in DJing.
At the age of 13, I started working as a DJ since I’ve always enjoyed music and wanted to perform.”
5678: Why in particular DJing?
“I’ve always aspired to be a DJ because I think women are equally capable of doing so. This was a huge turning point in my life. It empowered me to know that, as a woman, I am capable of anything.”
Melissa grew up completely immersed in her culture with Grenada and Trinidad & Tobago heritage. Being from Caribbean descent, Melissa believes her roots are the most important part of why she’s where she is today.
5678: How does your heritage play a part on the music and career you have/make today?
“It is crucial for me to showcase my culture as much as I can. To express to others how grateful I am to be from these beautiful islands. For the more mature generations who came from the Caribbean many years ago, things were really hard. I intend to do my best to convey the freedom and tranquilly over the years leading up to this day.”
5678: And how does this translate into the music you DJ today?
“Genres such as Soca, calypso, chutney, jab jab, Reggae & more plays a big part of my appreciation of playing music. My desire to preserve my history and respect it even more derives from my upbringing. This is especially true if it allows me to do so through my DJing.”
5678: What do you feel is a part of culture that makes the music so important?
“Caribbean carnivals have a significant role in the culture of the region. And it is crucial that the coming generation learns that these events are about more than just dancing. They also highlight the value of liberty to Black people.”
Carnivals originate as far as the times of enslavement. Initially being done in the 18th century, Carnival started as a form of protest and resistance. Sugar canes meant for sale would be burnt and instruments would be used to perform music. After slavery ended, people would every history.
5678: How do you feel music is a way to share your culture?
“The Caribbean culture has flourished thanks in part to social media. Since more people are interested in learning about the history of islands, food, people, the scenery, and more.”
Caribbean music has risen over the years, and it’s revenue is to increase yearly by 13.06% until 2027, as Statista states.
