Meet DJ Chopp-A-Lot: Louisiana's Next Up Producer

Los Angeles based music producer, DJ Chopp-A-Lot was born and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana and began his pursuit of a music production career in 2008. Along with his musical roots in the church and his high school marching band, Chopp quickly fell in love with music production after seeing his gym teacher using FL Studio during class.

Along with the regional artists Chopp has worked with over the years, he most recently produced the newest single, “Feenin,” for R&B artist Cupid, the creator of the Cupid Shuffle. In August of 2018, DJ Chopp-A-Lot was selected by DJ Mustard and Big Sean to be a semifinalist contestant in the Remy Martin Producer Series, in Houston, Texas.

Now, after relocating to Los Angeles just a few short months ago, Chopp-A-Lot is continuing to build his brand, clientele, and fanbase. In mid-January, he along with friend and guitar player, Nyieki Ruiz, released an instrumental EP entitled, 'Take 2,' laced with striking guitar chords & innovative music production. With his growing name, versatility, & constant evolving sound, DJ Chopp-A-Lot is working to be the world’s next big hitmaker. Get to know the budding musician below, where you'll learn more about networking for artists, the influence of Houston's Hip Hop scene on his career and how he got his name: DJ Chopp-A-Lot.

How did you come up with the name DJ Chopp-A-Lot?

I used to DJ a lot and I had a cousin who was supportive of that. When it came to having a DJ name, he was just throwing out funny names, and DJ Chopp-A-Lot stuck with me. You could say it was inspired by Rap-A-Lot Records.

What Instrument(s) did you play while in the High School Band? 

I was on the trumpet mostly, and I played bass drums for a year.

When you were growing up, which albums had the most impact on the way you write? 

I was paying attention to the music in the Houston scene so, DJ Screw and his Screw tapes had an impact. Z-Ro and Trae Tha Truth’s music also made an impact. Their raw styles were very different and inspiring. I was also into Gospel music, R&B, and anything just made me think and create outside the box.

How do you feel about streaming these days?

Streaming is cool, I’d like it to be better though in terms of helping artists grow their audience even more.

So, you're in LA now. What influenced your decision coming from Louisiana to Los Angeles?

Just better opportunities really. Coming to LA, I just want to be able to expand out here and collaborate with as many people as possible including the big names. If the need arises for me to move again, then I'll make it happen.

How do you network for collabs? What’s your process?

They say consistency is key. So, I was staying consistent on YouTube and Instagram, and just building with those I connect with.

What sound were you going for on your 'Take 2’ project?

I was just going for something different. The results were something I’ve never heard before really. I credit some of that to my good friend who plays the guitar. He comes up with a lot of the melodies, the licks and the riffs, and I’m just following behind to make something crazy.

Who do you want to work with? Who do you want to hear on your production?

Beyonce for sure. Migos, Super Duper Kyle and The Internet. I love The Internet and it would be really dope to work with them.

Lastly, is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

I just wanna say, stay tuned! I have a lot of music in the stash, and I can’t wait to get it out there. Thanks for having me Hype Off Life!