FLINT, Michigan — On Wednesday, April 16, the FIM Capitol Theatre in downtown Flint will be the place for music lovers and partygoers. The “Flint Under the Stars: DJ Battle” will bring together four local DJs — DJ Chef Nate, DJ Hype, DJ Winter Soldier, and DJ SicMusiq — for a night full of beats, energy, and friendly competition.
Hosted by Flint’s own CJ Barnes (a.k.a. CJ the DJ), the event promises good vibes, great music, and a chance to see some of the city’s most talented DJs do what they do best. This event isn’t just about who wins — it’s about showing love to the local music scene and giving these artists a stage to shine.
“Performing on the FIM Capitol Theatre stage represents a ‘bucket list’ show for many local artists. It is one of the most iconic concert venues in the state,” explains Amanda Carpenter Sauvie, FIM Community Programs Manager. “The Flint Under the Stars program allows us to give local artists all [that] we give touring professionals: a big-stage concert experience. The [artists are] also given the support of our professional marketing team and the knowledge that a historic institution like FIM is backing them.”
It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and homegrown talent that keeps Flint moving. Flintside caught up with DJ Winter Solider and the host, CJ the DJ, to talk about this one-of-a-kind experience.
Flintside: Can you share your journey into DJ’ing and what inspired you to start?
CJ: “DJ’ing is in my blood — literally. My first introduction to the craft was through my mom, a prominent DJ in the city back in the day. She went by the name Special K, and she wasn’t just spinning records — she was setting the tone for what it meant to move a crowd. She used to wake me up by blasting all kinds of genres throughout the house, from soul to house to funk to hip-hop. Without even realizing it, she was building my ear, teaching me how to appreciate sound and transitions. That foundation lit the spark, and I knew I had to carry the torch in my own way.”
Winter Solider: “The thing that got me started in DJ’ing was simply a love of music. There is a magical part of my family that has found its way into music in some way or another for generations. We always had music and access to it. When I was in college, Sunday nights were all about going to see “The Wizard,” Jeff Mills at the Nectarine Ballroom. It wasn’t until after I graduated that I got my first gig. From there, I went in many directions but continued to collect. After 9/11, I joined the Army and took my show on the road.”
Flintside: What does participating in this DJ battle mean to you personally and professionally?
CJ: “Hosting this DJ battle from behind the rig is personal. It’s a chance to celebrate the art of DJ’ing while helping shine a light on other talented artists in the city. Professionally, it’s about creating space for DJs to be seen, heard, and respected for the craft. It also shows the next generation that we’re building a culture here that honors both skill and showmanship.”
Courtesy photoCJ the DJ.
Winter Solider: “Participating in this battle is more about community. These guys are some of the most respected DJs in the area. I want to put on a good show and make the city look good. It will be fun no matter what happens because it [celebrates] the culture and its importance and relevance. With our different styles, we should be able to do something great and lay the groundwork for next year.”
Flintside: How do you prepare for a DJ battle, and does it differ from your regular performances?
CJ: “For a battle, preparation is more strategic. It’s not just about rocking the party — it’s about grabbing attention, showcasing technique, and delivering moments people don’t forget. You gotta be sharp with your timing, transitions, and crowd control. Regular sets are more about flow and feel. In a battle, you’re making a statement. Even as a host, I’m preparing to set the tone with energy, precision, and a little flair.”
Winter Solider: “This is different for a number of reasons. First, I am by no means a battle DJ. I consider myself a “Vibe-Setter” who augments a space and has people enjoy themselves as an added value. For the Flint Under The Stars Battle, I plan on a level of pandering and playing to the crowd’s nostalgic side like no one has ever seen. I will depend heavily on my catalog and my ability to read the crowd.”
Courtesy photoDJ Winter Solider.
Flintside: What are some of the biggest hurdles you’ve faced as a local DJ, and how did you push through them?
CJ: “One of the biggest hurdles is people underestimating local talent or not taking DJ’ing seriously as a profession. There’s also the challenge of staying booked consistently while staying true to your style. I pushed through by staying versatile, investing in my craft, and creating my own lanes — whether throwing events, building relationships, or using moments like this battle to elevate the culture around me.”
Winter Solider: “The biggest hurdle for a local DJ in this area is finding a venue. The market has changed, and the venues aren’t what they were in the past. There was a time when the club scene was vibrant. There was a spot for a DJ days a week, with some of the busiest days being Wednesday and Thursday. That is no longer the case. That type of scene also brought excellence in the form of competition. A DJ had to be on their game to get and maintain a job. The only way to get through now is to be flexible and never say no.”
Flintside: What advice would you give to aspiring DJs looking to make a name for themselves?
CJ: “Stay hungry and stay learning. It’s not just about knowing the hottest tracks — it’s about understanding energy, timing, and connection. Get your fundamentals right, watch the greats, and never be afraid to take your own route. Most of all, respect the craft — because when you respect it, the crowd will respect you.”
Winter Solider: “I always tell people starting out to be flexible and try anything. Also, make sure you are putting your best foot forward by having high-fidelity music files or records in your collection. Nothing is worse than poor sound. Also, learn to read the crowd. Keep working and never stop. When you are good, you can always work your style into the room you are working. And from there, you build a brand.”
For more information and to purchase tickets to the event, visit the FIM website.
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