MSM entertainment On the Record with By Craig Skilling I Photographed by Imani Ogden Makeup by Amber Baer Set Assistants: Gisel Habibnejad & Stephan Useche Location: MSM Studios t is no secret DJ Irie has conquered the world of music, but he has also proved to be well-rounded in other aspects of his life. One of his biggest accomplishments includes his Irie Foundation, through which he has successfully helped steer at-risk children in South Florida towards the right direction for a promising future. Becoming the NBA’s first in-house DJ, he has paved the way for countless NBA musical entertainers. With Irie Weekend having celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, there is no telling what the Miami Heat DJ cannot do. His highly driven sense of ambition and wholesome personality are just a couple of reasons why Miami has come to admire and respect the talented DJ. MSM sits down with DJ Irie to catch up: MSM: How did you come up with the name DJ Irie? DI: Right before I was introduced on stage at my first gig ever, the head DJ asked for my name. When I told him “DJ Ian,” he laughed and said I need to come up with a better one. Based on my Jamaican background and the meaning of the word, he named me with “DJ Irie” which means “peace and positivity.” MSM: Talk to us about your success to date and milestones you are proud of. DI: I’m blessed. One of the most prolific things for me would be the launch of my Irie Foundation, through which I’ve been able to meet so many amazing people, and have been able to give back. We’ve awarded scholarships and raised thousands of dollars for so many organizations and causes. Another milestone for me has been performing at the Fifa World Cup Final in Rio. That is something I couldn’t have possibly even dreamed of taking part in.  MSM: You recently hosted your 10th Annual Irie Weekend. Can you share with our readers the motivation for starting Irie Weekend and how you have been able to sustain the model for continued success and growth with this being your 10th annual event? Who does Irie Weekend benefit and why? DI: Having previously worked with Alonzo Mourning and Zo’s Summer Groove to raise money for local charities, I had experience