Big Syphe: Inside the DJ Booth

SKAM

DJ Big Syphe had been spinning at neighborhood parties for years before he had the opportunity to take his skills around the globe, serving as a supporting record spinner for international superstar Pitbull. The California native was a devotee of music -- he dabbled in production as a teenager -- and coupled that passion with his love for turntables, which eventually led him to one of the top radio stations in the country, Los Angeles' Power 106.

When he was just 19 years old, Syphe was already doing well as an enterprising industry head. He was on the station's street team but he was also allowed the opportunity to guest host and spin late night mixes from time to time. Although, Syphe knew bigger things were in store for him, he had no idea his breakthrough would come from meeting Pitbull's mother.

Syphe traveled to Las Vegas with Power 106 one weekend for a showcase event. The eager DJ was sequestered to a lonely table since he was underage. At some point in the evening, a young rapper by the name of Pitbull made his rounds at the showcase and his mother accompanied him. The woman spotted Syphe sitting all alone so she walked over, introduced herself, then called her son over.