VI
EN
DJ Mike Hao (real name Mai Phuoc Hau) first gained recognition after participating in The Remix 2015. Since then, this young man from Da Nang has become an indispensable name at the most vibrant music parties in Saigon and across the country. He boasts a vast musical repertoire with millions of listens on Soundcloud, including tracks like MikeHao Vol 9, #1908s, #Say by MikeHao... And you may have even encountered him at GAIA, Atmos, Commas, Xing Xing, Sin Lounge (Ho Chi Minh City) or 1900, TITAN Lounge (Hanoi)…
"The best thing about being a DJ is that you're always full of energy - and you're the one who spreads that energy to everyone."
How long have you been working as a DJ? How did you get into this profession?
I've been involved in DJing and the nightlife industry for 9 years now. My journey into this profession was quite serendipitous. After graduating, I worked as a manager at Sin Lounge. Because of my passion for music, I learned by observing the DJs there and started playing for friends. With their support and my own realization that I loved it and wanted to pursue it seriously, I've continued doing it ever since.
Even now, is music still the biggest factor that keeps you committed to this profession?
That was the case at first, but later I realized the best thing about being a DJ is always feeling full of energy – and being the one to control and spread that energy to the audience.
As for music, I consider it an indispensable part of my life. Even when I'm not performing, I still listen to relaxing music at home to unwind.
DJs are often associated with the image of energetic people who love to party and drink alcohol... Are you one of them?
When I first started DJing, I loved partying and drinking, but the longer I've been doing it, the more I've cut back. Now I know how to recognize when to drink, when to moderate, and how to avoid drinks that guests want to toast with. You don't need to know how to party, drink, or have a high alcohol tolerance to be a DJ; the most important factor is whether you have a good sense of music.
Nine years can be considered a fairly long time in the profession. He feels that during that time, he...Okaywhat, andlostWhat?
I've built many close relationships; I've received support and love from friends, fans, and my bosses at work… My material life has also improved. On the other hand, the busyness of my profession used to take me away from my family. Now that I'm working professionally, I know how to schedule a few days off to go back home to visit my family, spend more time with my parents, and make up for the time I missed before.
Overall, I feel I've gained more than I've lost from this night job. Being a DJ has taught me many life lessons, especially about patience, perseverance, and ignoring negativity or bad rumors about myself.
He said that he gained many close relationships from his work as a DJ. This seems unlikely in a vibrant environment like bars and clubs, doesn't it?
Yet, I gained many wonderful relationships from this environment. The bosses were always helpful, starting with work and then developing into close friendships, treating each other like family. I also made many new friends during my time working there. The important thing is knowing how to choose your friends wisely, not exploiting relationships for personal gain, and knowing how to manage them appropriately to maintain lasting relationships. Some of the friends I made in the nightlife scene have been with me for 10 years now, and I always cherish that.
"Whenever I face temptation, I think of my family."
Three words to describe the negative aspects of being a DJ?
Many temptations.
That's probably the story most people are curious about regarding a DJ: how does he overcome temptations?
Whether or not one can overcome temptation depends on each individual. For me, whenever I face temptations around me, I think about my future and ask myself: What will my future be like, what will happen to my family, if I succumb to these temptations now? At that moment, I automatically realize that all temptations are illusory; and only true values can endure forever.
Most DJs' workdays end at midnight. Does this affect their health or disrupt their daily routines?
It's true that staying up late significantly impacts the health of DJs. Luckily, I work fewer gigs and finish earlier than other DJs, so I can still sleep through the night and wake up in the morning to work and function like a normal person. Additionally, I regularly detox, go to the gym, and use saunas and acupressure to maintain better health.
The most lively end-of-year parties are incomplete without a DJ. Do you ever feel a pang of sadness that you still have to work instead of hanging out with friends during holidays and festivals?
Working on Christmas and New Year's Day has become a tradition in this profession. Seeing my friends gathering to celebrate makes me sad, but on the other hand, I'm the one bringing joy to the audience during this special occasion – that thought motivates me even more. My pay is also higher during holidays, and with that money I can spend on other days with my friends.
So, will you still be dedicating your entire holiday season to work this year?
As usual, I'll still be playing music for everyone. In addition, I'm in the process of releasing a set called #InLove by #MikeHao for Valentine's Day 2021 as a gift to my friends, those who are in love, and those who will fall in love. This is also a set I've been working on to celebrate my 10th anniversary in the nightlife industry.
Thank you and I wish you a happy new year!
