As the crowd moves in sync, a sea of bodies is lost in the rhythm, the bass thumps through the club, vibrating the walls and the soles of everyone’s feet. Behind the DJ set, Ron Levy (’25) stands in full control of the room. With a focused intensity, his hands glide across the controls, twisting knobs and tapping buttons with seamless precision. One headphone rests on his right ear, the other tucks behind his left ear, letting him stay connected to the crowd while staying in tune with the music. The club’s disco lights flash in time with each beat, casting quick, sharp shadows that dance across his face. As he rolls up his sleeves, the people in the crowd roar, jumping higher, waving their hands, as if the music is pumping through their veins.
Eighteen-year-old Ron Levy (’25) has no ordinary teenage life. At night, instead of finishing up homework and watching a new hit TV show, Ron begins to practice DJing. He spends an hour or so practicing and honing his skills and attributes, and another hour on testing different frequencies on new songs. On the night before a big event, DJ Levy stays up all night reviewing his songs and performance, making sure everything goes smoothly the next day. Going into his second year, Ron has been able to secure DJing events in the Big Apple, a significant opportunity for him to display his world-class talent.
How did you first become interested in being a DJ?
What first got me interested in DJing was, honestly, just my deep love for music and the way it can just completely change the energy in a room. Music has always been a huge part of my life. I remember, growing up, I’d always find myself watching videos of DJs performing—whether it was live sets, festivals, or club footage. I realized early on that at every party or event, music is what sets the tone. It can bring people together, lift their spirits, and create memories. That really stuck with me. I started paying attention to how DJs could control that energy, how they could read a crowd and shift the vibe with a song. There was just something about the energy they brought, the aura they had behind the decks. The idea of being able to do that–to be the one behind the decks making people dance, smile, and have the time of their lives—that’s what pulled me in. And for me, there’s nothing better than seeing people genuinely enjoying themselves because of the atmosphere you’re creating.
Has anyone helped or mentored you?
I met this really cool guy who owns a bar in New Milford, and he kind of took me under his wing. He introduced me to a lot of people in the scene, which helped me get more gigs and learn from others who’d been DJing for a while. One thing they all emphasized—and something I definitely found true—is that the more you do it, the better you get. So if I had to name one person who really mentored me, it would be him. He opened a lot of doors for me and really helped me grow. His belief in me gave me the confidence to push myself and take my craft more seriously.
How have you been able to expand your name and brand and go to all these events?
I’ve been building my name brand little by little. I’ve got a few promoters who help push my name out there, and I’ve been getting more people reaching out to book me for different gigs. It’s cool because now I’ve got opportunities coming from different places–not just locally, in Jersey. I usually play at clubs in New York City, mostly ticket-based events. I’m grateful for how far I’ve come and I’m excited for what’s next.
Do you see yourself DJing in the future after high school?
I most definitely see myself continuing after high school. DJing is something I’m really passionate about, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Right now, I’m focused on building my brand and playing at clubs, but in the future I’d love to take it even further, play overseas, travel and really get my name out there on a bigger level. The goal is to keep growing, keep learning, and turn this into something long-term. I see more than just a hobby–it’s something I truly want to pursue and make a career out of.
What advice would you give someone at Tenafly who wants to start DJing?
Honestly, the best advice I would give is: just start. Don’t think about it, don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect gear. DJing is all about practice, learning your equipment, and really getting familiar with music. The more time you spend bedding the decks, the more confident and creative you’ll get. Just remember, it’s not about being perfect right away. It’s about building your own style, experimenting, and staying consistent. Watch videos, study other DJs, and most importantly, have fun with it. Everyone starts somewhere, and as long as you take the first step, you’re already on the right path.
