The journey of a professional DJ extends far beyond what most people see on stage. In this candid conversation with DJ Mancan, we peel back the curtain on what it truly takes to build a career in electronic music while navigating the complexities of Toronto's competitive scene.

Growing up in Calgary before attending Western University, Andrew's path into DJing followed the school's unofficial ”DJ pipeline” that has produced acts like Loud Luxury. What began with fraternity parties has evolved into a sophisticated approach to music curation, influenced by European sounds and a desire to carve out a unique niche. But this evolution didn't happen overnight—it required disciplined time management, strategic decision-making, and the courage to decline opportunities that didn't align with his artistic vision.

Perhaps most revealing is Andrew's insight into the entrepreneurial reality of music careers. Even established artists with management teams are constantly grinding behind the scenes, handling promotion, and building their brands. For emerging DJs, this means mastering everything from basic accounting to networking, while potentially maintaining full-time employment to remain financially stable. When existing opportunities didn't match his musical direction, Andrew co-founded the ”Tempo” event series, demonstrating how today's artists increasingly create their own platforms rather than waiting for the perfect gig.

Whether you're an aspiring DJ, music producer, or simply curious about the realities behind the decks, this conversation offers valuable perspective on building an authentic career in a saturated industry. Follow DJ Mancan on Instagram @mancan.music and check out the Tempo Toronto event series for a taste of the sound he's bringing to the city's electronic music landscape.