This is a throwback interview with DJ Hollygrove shares raw insight on indie grind, his rise, and what artists need to hear, in this Hype Magazine x SBR Talk Series exclusive interview. (YouTube circa August 19, 2024). Watch the entire episode after the recap!
How DJ Hollygrove Met OG Ron C and Joined ChopNotSlop
DJ Hollygrove did not plan to become part of a Houston music legacy. He started as a young DJ with a passion for Southern hip-hop and a desire to connect with local fans. In time, that passion led to a key meeting with OG Ron C, one of the pioneers behind the ChopNotSlop movement.
OG Ron C is known for helping to shape the chopped and screwed genre, a style that slows down and repeats parts of songs to give them a different energy. When DJ Hollygrove first met him, it wasn’t in a studio or a major event—it was through mutual respect and consistency. Hollygrove had been building his reputation by working shows, creating mixes, and staying active in Houston’s underground music scene.
According to Hollygrove, the moment came after he continued showing support for the ChopNotSlop movement online and through live sets. “Ron reached out after seeing what I was doing,” he said. “He appreciated that I was keeping that sound alive and doing it right.”
Once they connected, OG Ron C welcomed him into the ChopNotSlop DJ family. This collective focuses on maintaining the art of slowing down tracks while also bringing in new fans. Hollygrove began contributing to official projects and live performances, helping to carry the sound forward while honoring the roots of the style.
Joining Core DJs and Becoming a GRAMMY Voter
After his experience with ChopNotSlop, DJ Hollygrove continued to expand his reach in the music industry. His next major step came through a connection with Tony Neal, founder of Core DJs Worldwide. This organization supports DJs across the country, giving them tools to grow and build connections with artists and music executives.
Hollygrove caught the attention of Neal through his steady work ethic and ability to break records at the local and regional level. He was invited to join the Core DJs, which gave him access to a new network of events, artist showcases, and marketing tools. As part of this network, Hollygrove worked with other DJs to help new artists gain visibility.
He became known for playing records early and giving independent artists a chance to be heard. “It wasn’t always about who was the biggest name,” Hollygrove explained. “Sometimes it was about the music that connected with people.”
Through this work, he began to build stronger relationships with both record labels and radio stations. This momentum led to his membership in The Recording Academy, where he now participates in the voting process for the GRAMMY Awards.
Becoming a GRAMMY voter gave Hollygrove a different kind of responsibility. He took time to study how the process worked and made sure to listen carefully to the music submitted for consideration. His approach focused on being fair, keeping an open mind, and making sure all styles of music received attention.
Helping Artists Break Through and Building Lasting Careers
DJ Hollygrove’s work as a member of ChopNotSlop and Core DJs has led to more than just personal success. Over the years, he has played an important role in helping new and independent artists build their careers. His ear for music and his willingness to support early talent has helped artists gain radio play, chart recognition, and fan support.
Many of the records Hollygrove played first went on to receive major label interest. In interviews and online streams, he often shares that he listens to everything with the same mindset, no matter who the artist is. “I don’t ask who made it first,” he said. “I ask if the song works, if people will react to it.”
That focus on quality over name recognition has earned him trust in the DJ and artist community. Artists have often reached out to him directly to get feedback on songs or to ask for help pushing a new release. In many cases, he gave them more than just advice—he helped connect them to other DJs, producers, or marketing opportunities through Core DJs or his own contacts.
In addition to working with artists behind the scenes, Hollygrove has contributed to showcases, panels, and music conferences across the country. These events often include open DJ sets, where he previews music that is unreleased or coming from up-and-coming talent. His ability to get reactions from live crowds helps artists know if their sound is connecting.
Today, Hollygrove continues to balance being a performer, mentor, and music industry connector. His path—from Houston clubs to ChopNotSlop, Core DJs, and The Recording Academy—shows that staying focused and helping others can open doors. By choosing to support the culture and those in it, he has created a space where music can grow and artists can find their voice.
Check out the full interview on The Hype Magazine Youtube Channel
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Listen to the full interview on Spotify
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