Music is my life
More than ever, Lebanese need to address the issue of discrimination in their country and work towards building an inclusive society. This is what young DJ Joe teaches us through his passion for music, and his sense of hope amid chaos.
Arleb by Nabad – Who is DJ Joe?
DJ Joe – My name is Joe Jabr and I’m 23 years old. I have had a disability since childhood called “cerebral palsy”. I went to Sesobel at the age of nine months. I was offered physical and moral support at this institution. I learned information technology and graphic design.
I began my journey as a DJ in 2013 when my father brought me a small DJ set specialized for beginners, so I started to work at small private parties. In 2014, I became stronger in this field and was invited to more popular and famous parties — and of course with a new and bigger DJ set. For me, it’s a hobby more than work, and now I have my own style of music.
I’m also a member of the “Order of Malta” organization in Lebanon. It supports individuals and families in need. Sometimes we travel to meet other groups of this organization and sometimes we have parties or we do camping in Lebanon.
Arleb by Nabad – What is, according to you, the power of music? And how does it help you in your everyday life?
DJ Joe – Music is my life, it gives me power and faith to face all difficulties and challenges everyday by allowing me to be always happy.
Arleb by Nabad – What are, according to you, the challenges that you face as a DJ in Lebanon, especially with the socio-economic crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic, and following the Beirut port explosions?
DJ Joe – All the crises that happened have affected my career as a DJ, and particularly the lockdown as restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs closed their doors. In addition, these crises had a negative impact on me, as on most Lebanese, especially the feeling of being unsafe everywhere.
Arleb by Nabad – According to you and based on your experience and insights, what kind of support is needed for artists in Lebanon, especially the marginalized or undervalued artists, or artists who need more visibility, and what kind of support is needed for young DJs in particular?
DJ Joe – I believe there should be more active online live streams for DJs, and that they should definitely be helped, whether locally or globally, through financial support so they can buy or repair their equipment, and through innovative jobs that are adapted to the current situation.