Beyond the Decks: What Your Favorite DJs Do When They’re Not Dropping Bangers
What do DJ’s Do When They Aren’t DJ-ing?
Ever wonder what your favorite DJs and artists are doing in their spare time? You know, when they aren’t holding ID’s hostage from us and spinning on the decks, or producing new sounds for us? No? Well - we do, and we’re about to dive in and give you the inside scoop on some of your favorite artists - and how they seem to enjoy their free time aside from making house music.
DJs aren’t just masters of the mix—they’re also out there conquering waves, hitting the pavement, and throwing punches (in the gym, of course). When they’re not making crowds lose their minds with their sets, some of the biggest names in house music have serious hobbies and passions that might surprise you. From surfing to running, here’s what your favorite DJs are up to when they step away from the decks.
John Summit: From Afterparties to Athletic Feats
John Summit has always been known for his high-energy performances and legendary ability to keep the party going way longer than it should. But as of late, he’s been channeling that endless energy into a new passion: running. Aside from his well-established record label, Experts Only, and his wealth of hits, Summit has been hitting the pavement hard. Summit has been running regularly, and even using a running app, Strava, to connect with other runners. His social media is filled with posts about his newfound passion, proving that he’s just as committed to pushing his limits on the road as he is behind the decks. But it doesn’t stop there, Summit is a Pilates Prince too. From SolidCore to other pilates studios in Miami, Summit is not only king of the music jungle, but he also happens to be king of the fitness jungle. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see him running a marathon before his next festival set - or after his set. If Summit can complete a Space Set Marathon, who’s to say he can’t complete a Miami Marathon?
FISHER: Surf’s Up, Maximum Boost Up
If you follow the FISH, you already know he’s got the same consistent wild energy - whether he’s on stage or in the ocean (literally, in the ocean). When he isn’t traveling around the world and long before he became one of house music’s biggest names, he was actually a pro surfer—and that love for the waves never left.
FISHER still shares snippets of his passions with his fans, exemplifying that his personable and sociable energy carry over into essentially all aspects of his life. When he’s not making crowds go absolutely feral to his tracks, you’ll find him back in his element, shredding waves and living the ultimate beach life. Native to Australia, FISHER is native to the ocean - similar to his name. It’s no wonder his music feels like an endless summer—his life basically is one. Here he is teaching his new baby guppy how to surf - what a wholesome moment.
Cloonee: The Foodie & Puppy Lover
After following Cloonee’s DJ career for some time now, one will pick up some common trends and patterns shared via his Instagram posts. Aside from his renowned record label, Hellbent Records, and his outward love for Latina baddies, Cloonee has some other passions.. And one common theme is that the man loves food - and puppies. In sharing snippets of his life, which include mostly recaps of how incredible his sets are, he’ll toss us a bone - in other words, a sweet wholesome photo of him and a furry friend, or fast food.
HUGEL: Making the Girls Dance While Boxing Beats
HUGEL isn’t just throwing down bangers—he’s also throwing punches. HUGEL has shared some footage via Instagram that he’s passionate about punching - sorry, boxing, - and using it as a way to stay fit and clear-minded. It’s easy to see how that intense and passionate energy translates into his sets. Whether he’s in the gym working on his jab or on stage working on his transition, he sure is delivering high-energy sets. One thing about HUGEL, he is always bringing the heat.
Carl Cox: Speed, Adrenaline, and Racing Glory
Carl Cox is a legend in house and techno, but his need for speed goes way beyond the DJ booth. When he’s not dropping heavyweight beats, he’s tearing up the racetrack. That’s right—Cox owns and runs Carl Cox Motorsport, a professional racing team. His love for motorsports is as deep as his love for music, proving that whether it’s behind the decks or behind the wheel, he’s always in control of the ride. Clearly, techno BPM speed wasn’t enough, Carl Cox needed the race-car MPH speed too.
DJs: More Than Just Music
These artists aren’t just about beats—they’re about passion, adrenaline, and pushing themselves to the limit. Whether it’s running, surfing, boxing, or racing, they bring the same drive and dedication to their hobbies as they do to their music. So the next time you’re vibing to one of their sets, just remember: when they’re not making you dance, they’re out there living life to the fullest.
