The world of DJing has undergone a massive transformation over the years. From the early pioneers who mastered vinyl records and turntables to today’s digital revolution of controllers and pre-recorded sets, the craft has evolved—but at what cost? In an era where technology has made DJing more accessible, some argue that the essence of true disc jockeying has been lost. That’s where JNGL comes in.
JNGL isn’t your average DJ competition; it’s a movement designed to revive and celebrate the core skills that define real DJs: mixing, scratching, beat-matching, and reading the crowd. Born out of the underground warehouse scenes of Washington, D.C., and Miami, JNGL is committed to creating a platform where DJing is recognized as an art form, not just entertainment. At a time when anyone with a playlist and a laptop can claim the title of DJ, JNGL sets a higher standard, demanding originality, adaptability, and true technical expertise.
This commitment to authenticity is on full display at JNGL BATTLE: SB LIX, taking place at Republic NOLA on February 6, 2025. The event challenges six contestants to prove their skills under intense conditions—each receiving their tracklists only 24 hours before the battle. With a lineup of industry legends, including Mannie Fresh, The Les Twins, Big Freedia, DJ Trauma, and Lenny S. of Roc Nation, the battle isn’t just about playing music; it’s about showing artistry in its rawest form. The winner, crowned King or Queen of the Jungle, will walk away with a $5,000 grand prize, but more importantly, they will earn a place in the ranks of DJs who uphold the true essence of the craft.
“DJing is more than grabbing your laptop and pressing play—it’s art, it’s energy, it’s knowing how to move a room,” says Deante Chisley, CEO of JNGL. “We created JNGL to honor the DJs who built this culture and to challenge the next generation to rise to that level.”
With every battle, JNGL continues to shape the future of DJing by bringing it back to its roots, emphasizing the fundamental skills that have defined the craft for decades. By fostering mentorship, JNGL connects emerging DJs with industry veterans, ensuring that knowledge, techniques, and traditions are passed down to the next generation. Through real-time challenges, competitors are pushed to think on their feet, adapt to unexpected scenarios, and showcase their creativity under pressure—true hallmarks of a skilled DJ.
Beyond the competition itself, JNGL is creating a movement where technical skill reigns supreme, setting a higher standard in an era where DJing has become increasingly automated. By prioritizing hands-on artistry, originality, and crowd engagement, JNGL ensures that DJing remains a respected craft rather than just a playlist-driven performance.
JNGL BATTLE: SB LIX is just one stop on this larger journey. As the movement grows, more battles, showcases, and industry-defining moments are on the horizon, reinforcing JNGL’s mission to preserve, elevate, and celebrate the true essence of DJ culture. Through each event, JNGL aims to inspire the next wave of DJs to push boundaries, master their skills, and uphold the rich legacy of those who came before them.
For those who crave a night of real, unfiltered DJ artistry, JNGL BATTLE: SB LIX is an event not to be missed. Tickets are available now on Eventbrite.
Published by Stephanie M.
