At the age of 15, Antony Baker was gifted his first set of DJ decks, propelling him into a world of music and creativity. While most teenagers his age were out causing mischief, Baker found solace in his bedroom, honing his craft and discovering a passion that would shape his future.
Now, at 39 years old, he goes by the stage name MISTA Baker, a renowned DJ gracing stages across the Midlands. But his true pride lies in the DJ school he established on Bromford estate in Birmingham, a sanctuary where young talents are nurtured and dreams take flight.
By day, Baker is a humble railway worker, but by night, he transforms into a mentor, guiding teenagers through the intricate world of music mixing. His journey began with vinyl records, a challenging feat that has now evolved into digital music production, allowing aspiring artists to explore their talents in ways previously unimaginable.
Every Thursday, The Hub on Bromford Drive buzzes with energy as dozens of youngsters gather for the weekly DJ school, made possible by the unwavering support of the charity Worth Unlimited. This initiative has not only mitigated social isolation in the Firs and Bromford estates but has also ignited a spark of creativity within the youth of the community.
Kobie, a 14-year-old prodigy, shares his passion for music, expressing his hopes that other children will have the same opportunity to create tracks and melodies that resonate with their souls. For Amy, the DJ school has become a haven for vocal improvement, with aspirations of sharing her talents on a wider platform through her YouTube channel.
Driven by the desire to make a difference, these young artists come together to collaborate, each lending their unique skills to create harmonious melodies that reverberate through the streets of Bromford. From the soothing strums of a guitar to the rhythmic beats of a drum machine, the DJ school acts as a melting pot of innovation and self-expression.
Under the guidance of MISTA Baker, these teenagers are not just learning music; they are discovering themselves, finding solace in melodies and rhythms that provide an escape from the mundane struggles of daily life. The DJ school serves as a beacon of hope, a place where dreams are nurtured, and talents are cultivated with care and dedication.
As the sounds of Snoop Dogg permeate the air, mingling with the laughter and enthusiasm of the young musicians, one thing becomes clear – music transcends boundaries, bringing people together in a harmonious symphony of joy and creation. The DJ school is not just a place of learning; it is a sanctuary of unity, where individuals find their voices and express their emotions through the universal language of music.
For MISTA Baker, the greatest reward lies in witnessing the transformation of his students, seeing their confidence soar as they discover their hidden talents and unlock their potential. His mission is simple
