Let’s talk. Let me introduce you to the idea of a "creative outlet". In this three-part blog series be prepared to be invited into the world of some of my closest friends' deeply valued passions. You've witnessed me grow as a result of my passion. But I thought that it was time that I exposed you to the cumulative bodies of art that others have created, to celebrate them and to get you thinking about something meaningful that you can create. This looks very different for different people: podcasting, journaling, filming, ultimately creating, creating something meaningful. Sounds interesting? Keep reading. Do you want to learn about how others have created a tangible piece of work that genuinely makes them happy and that keeps them grounded?

“The King of the 1’s and 2’s” is a 20-year-old American University student from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. He is a multi-genre DJ who is pursuing a career in law. Being a DJ has provided him with the chance to open a door for people to express themselves. Being a part of something that gives you the ability to connect with others is one of the most touching experiences. His relentless dedication to this rapidly expanding craft has allowed him to find a passion and escape for himself in a place where not many are willing to go. Since becoming a DJ, he has gained what he calls ‘a surprising amount of exposure’ both on social media and across the college nightlife scene. That exposure comes with not much of a surprise, as he treats his creative outlet as an integral part of his lifestyle. 

His interest in DJ’ing began with a deep appeal for the hip-hop music industry. His love for the culture of hip-hop drove him to start DJ’ing off of an app called “Traktor DJ”. Since then, DJ’ing has provided him with the opportunity to network with and learn from other DJ’s in the Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area #connections. He made his big debut on February 1st, 2018 at Ultrabar NightClub in D.C., and has also DJ’d for several on and off campus events for various AU organizations. As a DJ, he has a created a collection of classics and is continuously building his repertoire by keeping up with new music to entertain, uplift, and excite his audience. Staying true to his roots, along with his wide array of hip-hop and modern music is a diversity of Caribbean and Afro-infused selections in his mixes.

Having a creative outlet is a form of branding. It is your way of communicating with the world through an art form. It is therapeutic, astonishing, and transformative to the soul. Creating work that you are proud of is something that you deserve to do for yourself. But any real passion does not come easy, it challenges yet inspires you. Find a passion, creative outlet, and craft that allures you and watch it manifest into something beautiful and memorable. Ultimately ask yourself, “what would I like to be remembered for”?

Who is the King of the 1’s and 2’s, you might ask? 

Check out Leayrohn King’s first mix at soundcloud.com/kingof1sand2s

To support and find out about seeing him at a venue near you: Follow him on all social media handles @kingof1sand2s. As Gabrielle Union would say, "let us lift him up in the light of goodness and hold him there."