By day, 31-year-old Gao Yifeng dons his business attire and heads to his office job like any other professional. But when the weekend arrives, he transforms into DJ Funkie, lighting up the dance floors with his energetic beats and passion for music.
“For me, being a DJ is all about serving others,” Gao shares. “Each DJ brings their own unique twist to the music, creating an unforgettable experience for the audience.”
Before embracing his DJ persona, Gao immersed himself in the music media industry, spending years listening to tens of thousands of albums. “I was surrounded by music all the time,” he recalls. “Eventually, I thought, ‘Why not become a DJ?'”
In 2020, Gao launched a podcast exploring Cantonese pop music and culture. “I dive into music, food, transportation, and record stores—it’s a mix of culture and sound,” he explains.
As DJ Funkie, his sets blend Cantonese pop from the ’80s and ’90s with contemporary hits, bridging the gap between generations. “I’ve hosted parties where millennials and Gen Z come together, and I play Alan Tam,” he says, referencing the legendary Cantonese singer. “One guy told me his dad loves the song and plays it at home.”
For Gao, music is more than just melodies and rhythms—it’s about the stories and connections behind them. Whether through his podcast or live performances, his goal is to share his love for music and connect with others. “It’s my outlet, a way to tell stories and create a connection with the audience,” he says.
Although his office job and DJ life may seem worlds apart, Gao finds that his passion for music brings a spark to everything he does. “Balancing both roles isn’t always easy, but it’s rewarding,” he reflects. “Music gives me energy, and I bring that enthusiasm into all aspects of my life.”
