Rob Wegner is a well-known DJ. Beyond this, one of his most remarkable contributions is pioneering and introducing DJ classes at the music department of Scottsdale Community College. He is also known for producing original DJ-centric eclectic commercial and production songs, among many other accomplishments.
But how did he get to where he is now? His journey to becoming one of the most sought-after DJs involves a lot of hard work and patience, making it worth knowing if you need some inspiration, especially if you want to follow in his footsteps and become a recognized and respected DJ.
How Rob started as a DJ
Rob was born in Chicago to a mother from Sicily and a father from Berlin. His father had an impressive history, being descended from Silesian dukes and helping hide his Jewish uncle from the Nazis.
By the age of 18, Rob was already drumming over the resident jocks' dance records for four nights a week and five hours a night at a popular East Coast nightclub. He also learned how to DJ by doing this in front of the dance floor. This was in 1982, and Rob was still in school. Although he would injure his hands drumming, he approached some of the DJs to teach him how to DJ. They agreed, but under the condition that he must pass their knowledge to the next generation. Under the guidance of mentors like DJ Z-Trip and Bad Boy Bill, Rob began making a living in the industry.
Passing on the knowledge
You could say that Rob followed through when his mentors told him to pass on their knowledge to the next generation when he developed the Live-Performance DJ course and curriculum at SCC. Back then, it was a non-credit class, with DJ Ness (Vanessa Harmeyer) among his first students. Final Scratch and CD turntables were new technologies back then, but the course greatly helped her and the other students navigate them, including the business side of being a DJ.
In 2010, SCC started offering certifications for completing three accredited DJ classes and many other relevant classes in the Music Department, like DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Rob hoped the degree would elevate the DJ profession and earn them respect in the academic world.
Rob today
Rob Wegner stopped teaching in 2014 when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but his love of music carries on to this day. He still makes original music for a wide range of productions and commercials, with popular examples including The Sports (Fight) Song and 420 Agent.
About The Author:
Rob Wegner, a DJ & Music Producer official website, is also known as Rob Wegner DJ or DJ Rob Wegner. He is an American open-format DJ and music producer known for establishing the world’s first college-accredited DJ degree at Scottsdale Community College (SCC). He was born in Chicago and learned to DJ at age 18 by drumming over a DJ at a popular east coast nightclub. He has a Master of Arts degree in political science. Rob was selected as one of the world's 36th most influential Club DJs in 2002 by DJ Reporter Magazine.
