Interviews

For over two decades, the fleet dj’s has grown from a small crew to a proficient coalition with over 700 members and counting. since 2001, THE WORLDWIDE FLEET DJ’s has changed the lives of both its members and the entertainment industry they have thrived in.

These are the members. These are Their Stories. THESE ARE “THE FLEET FILES”

Name: DJ Swag 100

FLeet DJ Since: 2022

Location: PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

Region: NORTHEAST REGION/PHILADELPHIA Fleet DJ’s

WHO IS DJ SWAG 100?

DJ SWAG 100 is not only a multitalented member of The Worldwide Fleet DJs, but a cultivator of Hip-Hop culture. Since becoming a member of Fleet, Swag has kept his foot on the gas working to not only spotlight emerging artists but to rewrite the genre’s narrative. When I asked Swag what was the moment that convinced him to become a DJ, he spoke on pivotal moments in time. ” My journey into DJing began with major events in key venues in Philadelphia, where I also launched my digital radio station, (SWAG 100 FM) now known as 100.1 FM The Plug. A pivotal moment came when I met DJ Calvin from New Orleans Fleet, who introduced me to the Philadelphia chapter.”

Lee McIntosh made his decision to join Fleet based on his visions for his personal career. “I chose to join because I recognized it as a professional community that could shape and expand my network.” In doing so, Swag now runs both radio stations and podcast networks as a media communications specialist. Upon becoming a member, Swag spoke on the connections within the camp. “Once introduced to the Philly chapter I connected with DJ No Phrillz & DJ Pooh Gees who are familiar faces in the Philadelphia music scene.”

In addition to working the ones and twos, Swag also is nice with the pen. He works as a journalist for Straight Official Magazine, Floss Magazine & The Fleet Mag. Throughout his journey he spoke on several trends. “I’ve observed a concerning trend in mainstream Hip-Hop media that sensationalizes artists’ lifestyles and personal conflicts.” He continued, “This relentless scrutiny pushes artists into risky situations, leading to conflicts and legal troubles. I recognized the need for a shift to cleaner business practices and media responsibility which inspired me to establish my business.”

For anyone looking to succeed in the industry, it’s crucial to understand the music business and network with the right people. Consistency is key.

SWAG IS IN HIS BAG

DJ Swag 100 has made several moves in the coalition. I asked him to speak on some of his accomplishments. “Since joining Fleet I’ve become a national moderator and the manager of the Fleet Artists division. I was honored to receive the award for Fleet DJs Mixtape of the Year in 2023. Swag has also received nominations at this year’s Fleet DJs Music Conference for Rookie of the Year as well as Hustler of the Year.

When I asked Swag where he draws inspiration from to be successful he spoke about family. “My inspiration comes from my older cousin, James Holmes, known as Big Chef. He had a studio with a full 12” Technics DJ setup, and I often got in trouble for experimenting with his equipment. He was the one who rocked block parties in our neighborhood, and his passion for music deeply inspired me.”

Swag puts serious hours into his craft. While often spending 20-30 hours a week discovering new music and artists, he spoke on the overall experiences. “My best experience as a DJ has been conducting interviews and listening sessions with both indie and major artists. The highlight was interviewing Macy Gray—an experience I’ll cherish forever!”

SHIFTING GEARS

DJ Swag 100 currently has a project titled “Philly Drill” that is his 18th mixtape to date. Available on mixtapes.com and TopMixtapes.com he talked about his dedication to the mixtape scene. “I’m constantly working on new mixtapes, as my mixtape hosting is in high demand. In January 2025, several mixtapes hosted by me will drop, including “Brim Game 6,” featuring a lineup of NYC artists.”

As the Mixtape DJ of the Year I asked him who’s currently in his playlist. The variety of artists he mentioned was refreshing to hear. “Currently, I’m enjoying tracks from Skrilla, BigxThaPlug, Chow Lee, and a few other rising stars in the Sexy drill scene, as well as with Tyler the Creator. While I appreciate all genres, these artists currently dominate my playlist.

Every DJ has a story behind their moniker. When I asked him about the origin of his name he said “My DJ name comes from my LLC, SWAG 100. “Swag” represents character and how you carry yourself, while “100” signifies authenticity. This name serves as a constant reminder to stay true to myself.”

My journey is rooted in a profound love for Hip-Hop culture and a commitment to changing its narrative.

IN CONCLUSION

DJ Swag 100 and I officially crossed paths back in 2020 during the Fleet DJs Music Conference in Jacksonville, Florida. It was dope to finally link up with one of my most productive members of the team. Producing most of our flyers and graphics for the publication he also conducted interviews for artists performing during the conference. One of my favorites is his one-on-one with Trece7ev which you can check out down below.

I asked Swag about the best piece of advice he could give to aspiring artists & DJ’s. He hinted on consistency and knowledge saying, “For anyone looking to succeed in the industry, it’s crucial to understand the music business and network with the right people. Consistency is key—there will be setbacks and mistakes, but each experience helps you grow thicker skin. This entertainment business isn’t for everyone, but persistence often outweighs talent.”

I gave Swag the floor for his shout outs to close our interview. “I want to give a shoutout to some amazing DJs in the Fleet family, including DJ P Money NYC, DJ Baby G, and DJ Justin Tyme (Gray Gang), who have supported me since the beginning of my career with Fleet DJs. I also want to thank DJ Heavyweight Rasheed for his guidance in the radio business and DJ Gojabean for being a great brother and constant source of good vibes. It’s a privilege to work with so many legends and game-changers in Fleet DJs!

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