The MixOff: DJs Take Over New Haven

Photos Courtesy of The MixOff. 

The following citizen contribution comes from Sebastian Wilds, who is a member of Six Figure DJs. 

Last Wednesday, Connecticut witnessed something that had never been done before at this level: The MixOff. Hosted by Mixsho and Six Figure DJs at the legendary Lotta Studio in New Haven’s vibrant Westville arts district, the night brought together nearly 50 DJs from across the country for an unforgettable evening of music, community, and culture.

The turnout was nothing short of amazing. DJs came from all over the tri-state area—Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, New Jersey, and Philly—and even as far as Texas. Connecticut’s own cities—New Haven, Hamden, Meriden, Hartford, Waterbury—showed up strong, proving that this state has a deep and diverse DJ scene ready to be seen and heard.

When DJs walked through the doors, they weren’t just there to watch. They were invited to sign up on the spot for a live 10 to 15 minute set. Each DJ had the freedom to scratch, blend, drop mashups, or showcase their own unique style. It wasn’t about catering to a crowd—it was about DJs playing for DJs.

This is what made the night so special: instead of the usual gig where a DJ entertains a crowd under contract, The MixOff was for the DJs themselves. It was about artistry, experimentation, and letting go in a room full of peers who understood the craft.

Lotta Studio, known as a creative hub for photography, art, and community, transformed into the heartbeat of Connecticut’s DJ culture. For five hours straight, turntables didn’t stop spinning. The energy was unmatched—supportive, safe, and electric.

What stood out most was the diversity. The youngest DJ in the room was just 17 years old, while the oldest was in his mid-fifties. Genres spanned across house, hip-hop, reggae, Afrobeats, and open format—a true showcase of how wide-ranging and powerful DJ culture is today.

The event wasn’t just about music. It was about connection. For many, the DJ world can feel isolated—you grind alone, build your skills, and search for your tribe. But that night, the tribe came together. Black and Brown men and women, alongside people of all races, all ages, and all genders, were welcomed and celebrated. The room was filled with support, networking, and energy as creatives exchanged contacts, shared stories, and encouraged one another.

Sponsors like BeatSource and Stage Wing added to the professional atmosphere, ensuring DJs not only had a platform to shine but also resources to grow.

The MixOff was co-created by DJ Ernz and DJ Too Much, two DJs determined to break barriers and create opportunities for others. Their vision is bigger than just one night.

“This is needed in our community. This is needed in Connecticut. This is needed in New York. This is needed nationwide,” DJ Too Much said. “Bringing DJs together is what’s going to change the culture. Unity and music is what’s going to move us forward for the next generation.”

“I really loved being in this room full of other DJs, being able to connect and have real conversations” Too Much added. “There were so many incredible DJs—not just good, but truly top-notch, genius DJs like DJ Creative, DJ Stream Ream, and so many others. I got the chance to hear their visions for the future, how DJing has impacted and changed their lives, and seeing their passion for music honestly inspired me. Even though we created this event, I left feeling inspired myself. My hope is that every DJ who came left just as inspired to keep pushing the culture forward.”

If last week’s success is any indication, The MixOff is only the beginning. Connecticut now has its own landmark DJ event that can grow into something much larger—potentially touring to cities across the country.

For one night in New Haven, DJs of all levels, backgrounds, and sounds stood shoulder to shoulder. They didn’t just play music—they built community.

And that’s the real MixOff.

Don’t miss the next online event hosted by Six Figure DJs, happening September 22–26 of this year. This live, interactive challenge is designed to help DJs sharpen their skills, explore new genres, and build confidence in just five days. Sign up here. 

Stay Connected! If you’d like to learn more about Six Figure DJs at their website or on Instagram or reach out to Sebastian@6figuredjs.com. For more about Mixsho, visit their Instagram.