MANITOULIN—Ashley Quackenbush, who goes by the stage name of DJ Scratchley Q, is Manitoulin’s newest up and coming DJ (disk jockey), offering her unique style and services across the Island.
“I’ve always been passionate about music,” Ms. Quackenbush told The Expositor during a recent interview. “In high school I was working on a project about dream jobs and I kind of stumbled on DJing. I started to explore it and I found my passion.”
Since graduating from Manitoulin Secondary School (MSS), the Manitowaning resident has attended DJ school in Toronto, as well mentored with a top city DJ.
“I attended the Scratch Lab DJ Institute last year and have taken lessons with DJ Craig Brooklyn,” explained Ms. Quackenbush.
In addition to mentoring with DJ Craig Brooklyn, Ms. Quackenbush has done independent shows, developing her own signature style.
“I use both records and a program that allows me to use MP3s and blank records to scratch,” revealed the Manitoulin DJ. “I like using turntables because it allows me to creating custom mixes.”
DJ Scratchley Q says that she plays all genres of music, catering her set to the venue, occasion and audience.
“I am really open to all different genres, but I personally like R and B, house, top 40 and reggae,” she said. “My style is always changing and growing, but I really try to be versatile and appeal to the crowd.”
Splitting her time between Toronto and Manitoulin, the up-and-coming DJ is tuned into the newest music trends.
Currently, DJ Scrathchley Q is promoting herself in Toronto and recording mixes, however she is available for holiday parties and will be returning to Manitoulin full time in January 2014.
“I play all different events—anything and everything—from weddings, bars and private functions,” she concluded, “and I do all genres.” Ms. Quackenbush also has all her own DJ and sound equipment.
For more information or to book DJ Scratchley Q call 705-859-2691 or 416-455-6249, email djscratchleyq@gmail.com, or visit her on Facebook at DJ Scratchley Q.
