From Neighborhood DJ to Sound Engineer:

The Journey of DJ Spoonie

by Dee Dee Reese

Gerald Buntyn, known by his stage name DJ Spoonie, has become a staple in the Shreveport entertainment scene. His journey from a neighborhood DJ to collaborating with big-name artists is a testament to his dedication, love for music, and ability to adapt to the ever-changing entertainment industry.

Gerald’s story begins in high school, where he first discovered his passion for DJing. Growing up in St. Louis, he was surrounded by music and sound, with family members who were already immersed in the craft. He started by working with other DJs, helping set up equipment and learning the ropes of sound engineering. "I was the neighborhood DJ," Buntyn recalls. "We would DJ at parties in the neighborhood, and I just kept going and never looked back."

His early exposure to the technical side of DJing set the foundation for his future career. He remembers fixing equipment like VCRs, turntables, and even a-track tapes in high school. This technical know-how gave him a competitive edge, allowing him to not only DJ but also repair and maintain sound systems, a skill that would prove valuable throughout his career.

In 1983, Gerald made a life-changing decision to move to Shreveport just a week before his birthday. "I moved to Shreveport to be around family and considered joining the military because my brother was in the military. I wanted to get out of St. Louis because of the crime," he says. "Shreveport felt like a safer place, and I thought it would be a good fresh start."

Upon settling in Shreveport, Gerald continued to pursue his passion for DJing. Initially, he worked with basic equipment, playing music in his living room. But his ambition and love for the craft drove him to expand. "I started having neighborhood parties, after my brother gave me my first set of turntables," Buntyn reflects. "That’s when I started to build my setup."

Gerald's move to Shreveport was more than just a physical relocation; it marked a shift from local DJ gigs to a full-fledged sound production career. "I worked my way up, and soon I was traveling to places like Jefferson, Texas, and Natchitoches," he says. His reputation began to grow, and soon, he was DJing concerts and events outside of Shreveport, expanding his reach to the surrounding areas.

As Gerald’s career progressed, he began working with larger-scale events and sound systems. He recalls working alongside other influential names in the industry, such as Raphael and Slick Rick. "I started doing sound as well as DJing," he says. "I continued to DJ when Raphael got out of the sound business, and it just kept growing from there."

Gerald's expertise expanded beyond DJing to include concert sound, where he worked with several well-known artists. Some of the big names he’s worked with include Rick Ross, Slim Thug, Yung Bleu, and Lil’ Flip, and others. "It’s a long list of artists I’ve worked with," he says, smiling. "People don’t even know half of it."

From setting up sounds for small parties to managing concerts for major artists, Gerald’s versatility and work ethic have been key to his success. "You’ve got to love what you do," he advises young DJs trying to break into the business. "It’s not about money or fame. It’s about entertaining the crowd and reading the room. You have to be passionate about music."

Like many industries, DJing has evolved with new technology, new genres, and new platforms. Gerald notes that, “It’s not just about having the latest equipment or trying to look cool," he says. "You have to know your crowd, understand the different genres, and stay humble. That’s how you last in this business."

He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and working with other professionals. "I don’t mind referring a job to another DJ if I can’t make it," he says. "It’s about keeping the quality high and ensuring the event is a success."

Gerald’s work in the DJ and sound industry has been nothing short of transformational. From his humble beginnings in St. Louis to becoming a key figure in Shreveport’s entertainment scene, he has built a legacy of passion, professionalism, and growth. As his business continues to thrive, his focus remains on providing high-quality entertainment and sound for every event, big or small.

For anyone looking to book DJ Spoonie or inquire about sound services, you can reach him at 318-518-8323. Whether it’s a neighborhood party, a wedding, or a concert, aka DJ Spoonie, is here to ensure your event is one to remember.