Djjihad Style & Influences

DJjihad spins a vibrant fusion of electronic beats and traditional sounds from around the world, with a special focus on Arabic and Asian influences. His sets are a journey through cultures, blending remixed Asian and Arabic underground dance music with a touch of electronic flair.

His music is about storytelling through sound, integrating traditional orchestral Arabic music, classical tunes, and modern electronic beats, he crafts a sound experience that is both familiar and unconventional. His preference for non-English lyrics adds an extra layer of interest and global appeal to his mixes.

DJjihad draws inspiration from a wide range of genres, from his early exposure to various forms of music such as American Pop to Arabic classical pieces. The influence of his jazz musician uncle brought the improvisational spirit of jazz into his dynamic and unpredictable sets.

Artists like Ry Cooder, known for his collaborative work with musicians from India and Africa, and DJ Chubby Sabah, who mixed Indian and Arabic music with electronic beats, heavily influenced his style and are a testament to his commitment to creating a global sound that resonates with diverse audiences.

Origin Story

Born from a rich tapestry of global influences, John’s journey to become DJjihad began well before he first spun a record. Growing up overseas, he was immersed in the sounds of Arabic music, European pop, early electronic, and the full spectrum of American music. Summers spent with his jazz musician uncle further enriched his musical palette, exposing him to big band, bebop, and progressive jazz. His love for vinyl and gadgetry only fueled his passion.

The pivotal moment came when a friend gifted him a mixer in 2000. This gift unlocked a new world, leading him to experiment with mixing in his garage. His talent quickly became evident as he blended various genres effortlessly. By 2001, DJjihad was playing music for fire performances at events like Burning Man, where he introduced remixed Asian and Arabic underground dance music to enthusiastic audiences.

The Name – the Legacy

It was a near miss, as John was almost branded DJMittens, as he played outdoors in the winter wearing fingerless gloves. But as fate would have it, this was the time of the Taliban and Osama Bin Laden, and John Walker Lind (known as the American Taliban) was captured and arrested in Afghanistan. Because John had the same name and he grew up in Libya, he caught a bunch of grief, and was nicknamed Jihad Johnny.

Taking the matter into his own hands (in a fit of sassiness and bad judgment) he chose “DJjihad” for his DJ name. Jihad is the Islamic term that literally means “to struggle, or to exert strength and effort,” and the people who wage jihad are called Mujahideen or Jihadi.

Djjihad reflects both the struggle of life and the triumph of creating art in a complex world. Despite the controversy surrounding the term, John has reclaimed it to represent his personal journey and artistic mission. His music is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the beauty of blending diverse influences.

The Preacher

DJ Jihad delves into fire-and-brimstone preaching, casting out demons, and healing ailments from tobacco addiction to dope dependency, while spinning the soulful sounds of Americana, blues, and gospel.

With a vast collection of sermon albums, rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of Arkansas and Mississippi, John’s upbringing was steeped in hillbilly music and old-school country. Moving to Houston in the 80s, he immersed himself in the Americana and blues scenes, frequenting venues like Etta’s Lounge to see legends such as Grady Gaines and Milton Hopkins. This blend of experiences infuses his music with an authentic Southern charm and a deep connection to gospel traditions.

DJ Jihad’s performances are a journey through Southern music, weaving together gospel, country, and blues. His alter ego adds humor and intrigue, with playful nods to his roots, often saying, “I’m from the Middle East part of Texas,” referencing Palestine, Texas.