We had the good fortune of connecting with Bonnie Sue Hernandez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Bonnie Sue, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is authenticity. Authenticity encompasses several key elements:
Unique Sound and Style: Developing a distinctive sound and style that sets me apart from others in the industry is crucial. This involves not only technical skills in production and mixing but also a deep understanding of my chosen niche and ability to present it. My music and performances must consistently reflect my personal artistic vision and resonate with my audience.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation: The music industry is constantly evolving, so staying current with trends, new technologies, and techniques is vital. This means continuously learning and adapting my approach to production and performance to stay relevant and innovative.
Professionalism and Reliability: Being professional and reliable in all aspects of my career helps build a strong reputation. This includes being punctual, prepared, and easy to work with, whether it’s for a gig, a collaboration, or a business deal. A good reputation can lead to more opportunities and long-term success.
Networking and Relationships: Building relationships with other artists, producers, promoters, and industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities. Networking helps in gaining insights, collaborations, and support from peers within the industry.
Consistency: Consistently releasing high-quality music, whether it’s original tracks, remixes, or mixtapes, keeps my audience engaged and helps grow my fan base. Regularly updating social media and other platforms with content also keeps my brand active and relevant.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am deeply passionate about the music I play and produce, and this passion resonates with my audience. My performances are centered around the crowd, striving to make them feel like part of the journey. This focus stems from my identity as a raver first and foremost, before becoming a DJ and producer.
My journey began nine years ago in the Dominican Republic, and it has been a challenging yet rewarding path. When I moved to the United States two years later, I had to rebuild my career from scratch. With no initial connections in the local music scene, I had to actively network and support local brands to gain recognition and opportunities to perform. Consistency in supporting the community was key to establishing myself in this new environment.
Throughout this journey, I learned the importance of keeping business separate from personal matters. The music industry, despite its vast appearance, is a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Maintaining a clear boundary between personal life and business is crucial for long-term success.
I want to be known not just for my professional accomplishments, but for who I am at my core: a quirky, passionate, and dedicated individual who is eager to share her joy and love for music with anyone willing to listen.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First and foremost, I would take them to a Fader event in St. Petersburg, Florida. This brand offers an exceptional experience with meticulously curated lineups, a friendly and respectful crowd, and outstanding management, ensuring a memorable time for all attendees.
For dining, I am particularly fond of a charming Mediterranean spot in St. Petersburg called Mio’s. The food is exceptionally delicious, the ambiance is beautiful, and the staff is very friendly.
Additionally, I would recommend visiting Honeymoon Island State Park, known for its stunning blue, pristine waters and white sand beaches. Another favorite of mine is Indian Rocks Beach, which also boasts clear waters and white sand. Both beaches are wonderfully serene and not overly crowded, which is a significant reason for my preference.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have had many special individuals contribute to my success, but there is one person who has been vital to my career development. I am deeply grateful to my friend and colleague in business Dzenan for being a tremendous source of support and inspiration throughout my journey as a DJ and producer. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering encouragement have played a significant role in my success. His passion for music and his commitment to our shared goals have made a profound impact on my career, and I am incredibly grateful for his friendship and partnership.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebonniesue/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonniesueofc