Music is universal. No matter where you are born, what culture you’re from, what language you speak, music has the power to create a feeling that nothing else can duplicate. Sophomore Jesus Duran is now able to create that feeling.

Starting off his career in Converse, Duran has become the well-known disc jockey known as DJ Curfew. In order to break away from his environment, Duran decided he needed a life style change.

“I started my DJ career as a hope to get away from the streets,” Duran said.

Duran first decided that after watching countless others DJs, he wanted to become one too. Although he was young and had no money, this never stopped him from achieving his dream.

“I needed money for equipment, so I went to local people with money and asked them to donate,” Duran said.

After borrowing money from local donors, Duran promised he would pay everybody back, using the new equipment that they help him get.

Starting from the bottom, his first gig was at a house party. Although he was fairly new to the music world, he worked his way up from small house parties to big venue shows.

“I didn’t have anything to start off with. “ Duran said.

Specializing in hip pop, Duran has met multiple artists including Juice J, Trey, Z-Ro, and even his idol, Tech n9ne. He has performed over 100 gigs to date.

He has also given back to his community, playing music at Judson Middle School dances, and has also reached out to Judson High School for future dances and other events.

Duran has achieved his goal by working with the record label Strange Music, and even promoting mix-tapes from underground artists.

“The best part of the experience is getting to pick up the artist for the day and getting to know them,” Duran said.

Getting to achieve one’s dream is a difficult task in itself. However, being able to do it at 18 is extraordinary, which Duran was able to do.