DJ CoolHand: 10 Questions with Luke Joachim

DJs - Luke Joachim

Business: DJ CoolHand
Location: New York City, New York NY
Experience: 15+ Years
Profile: DJ CoolHand
Website: www.djcoolhand.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hi, I'm Luke aka DJ CoolHand!

I grew up in Oakland during the hyphy movement and began spinning vinyl as a hip-hop DJ in the Bay Area. My first paid gig was a family friend's wedding; it was such a fun night with all the young people on the dance floor and the old folks rockin' in their wheelchairs...that was the start of my business! I went on to study music at Loyola University New Orleans and held DJ residencies at venues all over The Big Easy, including The Boot (called the "#1 college bar in the nation" by USA Today and Complex).

My career has taken me all over the world, touring arenas with major artists like G-Eazy and Lil Wayne, spinning festivals in including SXSW and the New York Wine and Food Festival, working corporate events for Microsoft, Sony, HBO and Redbull, even opening concerts and VIP parties for Wu Tang, Miguel, Drake and Bruno Mars. And, of course, weddings are my bread and butter!

When I'm not spinning, I'm at home in NY with my loving wife, Elena, and our beautiful newborn son.

2. What's your experience as a wedding DJ? How many weddings have you done?

I’ve spun hundreds of weddings! I love working with couples and giving them a tailored and well-crafted music experience. My 15+ years in the biz (also my own wedding) have allowed me to connect and empathize with my client’s needs; it has also taught me the nuances of how to read a room. I get a thrill from knowing how guests are vibing and what they want, then sprinkling in those classic bangers everyone knows and loves!

My awards include WeddingRule Editor's Choice 2020, The Knot Best of Weddings 2018, and WeddingWire Couple's Choice Award 2018.

3. How far in advance do couples need to book your services?

Couples usually reach out 6 to 18 months in advance.

4. What's your rate? What does that include?

My rate starts at $3,200. Reach out for your custom quote.

5. Are you available to travel if needed?

I'm based in New York and available to travel worldwide.

6. How would you describe your style?

I'm unapologetically a child of the 90s but dig everything from top 40 to oldies, and everything in between. I hate being basic so I pack an eclectic mix including house, EDM, hip-hop, R&B, and a little bit of "4 on the floor" calypso, moombahton, twerk, afrobeat originals, and remixes!

7. What's your backup plan if there's an equipment malfunction? Do you bring backup equipment?

I carry backup hard drives of music and equipment so there are no hiccups on the day of. If for some extreme reason I am not able to perform (hospitalization, etc.), I have a network of DJs that are qualified to be an emergency replacement.

8. What's your sick day policy?

I'm too ill to take a sick day ;)

9. How do you motivate a shy crowd to dance? What do you do to motivate the crowd if nobody is dancing?

This is the difference between a good DJ and a bad DJ: judgment. Music is the best motivator, but I will invite people to the dancefloor, if necessary.