Listening to DJ Soul Sister talk about music feels like stumbling upon a secret library filled with records you've only ever dreamed existed, each groove worn deep by a thousand loving spins. In this episode of The Shadow People, hosts Nigel Hall and Derrick Freeman sit down with the beloved New Orleans DJ, whose encyclopedic knowledge of funk, soul, disco, and R&B is matched only by her passion for the craft.From her earliest days falling in love with Kool & The Gang as a child, to lugging crates of irreplaceable records across airports and clubs around the globe, DJ Soul Sister shares stories and insights that capture the rare thrill of analog authenticity. She reflects on her teenage years obsessing over Parliament Funkadelic, dressing as George Clinton for Halloween, and why “feeling the feeling” of the music--barefoot, bass-heavy, and blissful—is fundamental to her performance style.(00:40) Nigel and Derrick introduce the legendary DJ Soul Sister, calling her “the greatest DJ on planet Earth,” a compliment she humbly accepts while the hosts insist on its truth.(04:55) DJ Soul Sister explains how her lifelong love of records began at age five, sharing charming anecdotes of early record-store adventures with her father.(07:20) She opens up about the physical art of DJing with vinyl, describing the sweat, skill, and sacrifice required to blend two records into one seamless musical experience.(12:50) DJ Soul Sister recounts her pivotal Cool & The Gang discovery, a happy accident that set the tone for her musical journey.(17:00) High school memories surface as she reveals her deep teenage fandom for Parliament Funkadelic, including dressing up as George Clinton and recruiting classmates into "Uncle Jam’s Army."(21:45) Her first real DJ gig in 1997 is remembered fondly, crediting her friend Sarah Fritz for pushing her from radio airwaves onto the live stage.(23:15) The philosophy of “feeling the feeling” is unpacked, emphasizing her barefoot performances and the spiritual need to physically feel the bass vibrations.(27:10) Nigel and Derrick discuss the crossover between musicians and DJs, with Soul Sister offering friendly wisdom for those venturing into her territory: "love the music, and no train wrecks!"(32:45) An illuminating discussion unfolds around the age-old DJ dilemma: playing for the crowd versus playing for oneself, with DJ Soul Sister firmly defending artistic authenticity.(42:00) Essence Fest’s recent controversies prompt a conversation on professionalism in music events and the importance of treating artists properly—lessons everyone in the industry could benefit from revisiting.(54:30) The hosts challenge Soul Sister to pick her desert-island top five albums, leading to a vibrant exploration from Grover Washington Jr. to Slave and the Meters.(1:03:00) The episode then dives into favorite film soundtracks, touching on classics like Shaft, The Wiz, and the moody brilliance of Three Days of the Condor.(1:10:00) A passionate tribute to Washington D.C.’s Go-Go music follows, highlighting cultural parallels between DC and New Orleans, especially their shared commitment to community-driven live performance.(1:19:00) The show wraps up with laughter and gratitude as DJ Soul Sister receives an exclusive Shadow People t-shirt, fittingly described as "one-of-one" for a DJ whose record crates overflow with singular treasures.This episode of The Shadow People celebrates music as an ongoing conversation between artists, listeners, and those hidden grooves where the truth lives and dances. It’s a rich, funny, sometimes absurd exploration of why music matters, delivered through stories and perspectives as rare as the records spun by DJ Soul Sister herself.#djvinyl #neworleansmusic #funk #gogo #vinylcommunity #ShadowPeoplePodcast #DJSoulSister

In Episode 18 of The Shadow People Podcast, Grammy-winning musician Nigel Hall welcomes back the beloved Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph, who fills in while Derrick enjoys a much-deserved vacation in Mexico. Nigel and Jelly conduct an honest, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation covering music, parenthood, and the creative journey toward finding your artistic identity. From Nigel’s emotional Father’s Day spent with his son in Maine to Jelly’s recent performances with Big Freedia and Galactic, this episode explores deep reflections on life, creativity, and friendship.Nigel shares personal insights about fatherhood, navigating the highs and lows of touring, and the importance of authenticity in music. Jelly reveals her excitement about working on a new solo project, taking her mom overseas for the first time, and how her experiences have influenced her evolution as a vocalist and individual. The discussion also touches on Nigel’s newfound passion for bowling, travel nightmares, cannabis culture in New Orleans, and the relatable joys of simply providing groceries for your family.Join the conversation for another authentic, entertaining, and insightful episode of The Shadow People.Timestamps:0:23 – Welcoming special co-host Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph2:33 – Reflections on LBJ’s memorable Juneteenth visit and humorous band stories4:58 – Nigel’s emotional Father's Day week spent with his son13:37 – Jelly’s Pride weekend performance with Big Freedia and upcoming France trip with Galactic15:11 – Jelly announces working on a solo project and discovering her artistic voice26:16 – Jelly discusses the journey to finding your identity as an artist32:47 – Nigel’s song "Groceries" and the value of authenticity in music42:18 – Danny's News: The worst travel day ever and memorable life-on-the-road adventures#ShadowPeoplePodcast #AnjelikaJoseph #NigelHall #Fatherhood #BlackMusicMonth #NewOrleansCulture #PodcastLife

In this very special episode of The Shadow People, we welcome the esteemed Lebron Joseph aka LBJ to the studio to discuss New Orleans' complicated historical handling of Juneteenth, the ways in which the media game has changed, and the legacy of Sly Stone (RIP). LBJ has been a broadcaster in New Orleans for over 40 years. He’s the anchor of Good Morning New Orleans on WGNO and hosts New Orleans Music Playlist on NOLA 38. LBJ is also an announcer on iHeart Radio’s WYLD-FM.

His range of humor, practicality, our city’s musical history, and local charm puts him right at home with the Shadow People.

We were thrilled to have him as a guest and are excited to share this episode with the Shadow People family!