Philly’s hip-hop heartbeat gets its pulse from DJs who curate the soundtrack
From big arenas to intimate clubs. Leading the pack is DJ Ghost (Joshua Barrett), the longtime DJ for the 76ers and official sound man for WrestleMania XL in 2024. His influence extends to Q102 radio and iHeartRadio mix shows, too, and he’s a regular presence in Philly’s nightlife
Philly’s DJ culture goes deeper.
Q102’s early-’90s Hip‑Hop Review with DJs like Jay‑Ski and Zxulu embodied community connection, opening airwaves to acts like Fat Joe and Souls of Mischief. Local clubs and venues now thrive on DJs who link rap, R&B, dancehall, and EDM—shaping the city's nightlife sonic identity.
These DJs aren’t just spinning tracks
—they're curators of mood, emotion, and momentum. Whether hyping Super Bowl breaks or club sets, their selections define Philly's soundscape, proving behind the decks is where the city's culture truly pulses.
Check back tomorrow for a look at poetry and rap converging at July’s “Poetry vs Hip-Hop” live showcase!