Tampa Bay’s Favorite local performer: DJ
If you’ve fallen in love on the dance of some of Tampa Bay or Central Florida’s hottest clubs, you may have DJ Mike Sklarz to thank.
Since returning to the music scene nearly two years ago, his unique sound has been amplified at Bradley’s on 7th, Tequilas, Southern Nights, Parliament House and more. He’s also kept crowds moving during some of Florida’s premiere LGBTQ events.
Sklarz’s thrilling blend of circuit, tribal and vocal anthems have been featured during Tampa Pride, St Pete Pride, Orlando’s Big Gay Weekend and the All Hallows’ Masquerade Ball, engaging massive audiences throughout the state.
“It all goes back to when I was 16 listening to Casey Kasem on the radio doing ‘American Top 40,’” Sklarz reflects. “I worked in radio and while I was growing up I was DJing graduation parties and receptions, things like that. I thought back then it was a hobby.”
It became a thriving career after he left the corporate world behind.
“I got laid off after 14 years,” Sklarz reflects, “and I thought, ‘what’s going to be my next career path?’ Since I’m very comfortable behind the microphone and very comfortable entertaining … I picked up where I left off 25 years ago. Music is always something that I’ve had a passion for.”
Sklarz’s WAVE Award-winning sound is regularly featured at Tangra Nightclub, the WAVE Award winner for Favorite New Locally-Owned Business (Less Than One Year Old) and Bradley’s on 7th, which placed third for Favorite Locally-Owned LGBTQ Club/Bar and Favorite Local Happy Hour. He’ll also be DJing during GayDayS 2020 in June, with more venues to be announced.
“I love getting to interact with the community,” Sklarz says. “It’s my job to get to know everyone.”
“Getting back into this at 47 was scary,” he concludes, “but you can never give up on your dreams.”
