R.O.A.D. Podcast – DJ SHARAD: The Evolution of South Asian Sound in Hip-Hop

06/08/2026 5

In this episode of the ROAD Podcast, we’re joined by the founder of @DJUSAEvents, a member of the world famous @HeavyHitter’s Crew, Queen’s very own @DJSharad!

01:12
The episode kicks off with Sharad reflecting on growing up in Queens and Long Island, and discovering Hip Hop.

03:55
He details his entry into DJing and bootlegging Kid Capri mixtapes.

22:50
The crew examines 1990s NYC club dynamics, venue segregation, and how early Bhangra parties often ended in lost bookings.

33:36
Sharad explores building his fanbase, @PanjabiMC, and South Asian influence in Hip Hop, before breaking down the term “Desi,” 2000s @Timbaland/@JustBlaze production, and representation vs. appropriation.

42:20
The crew discusses Bollywood’s global reach, @NAS and @RocNation investing in India, and key leaders like @DiljitDosanjh and @VivianAkaDivine.

43:01
Sharad then covers making money handing out mixtapes at party doors, founding DJ USA, focusing on audiences over peer approval, and partnering with @FatFingaz.

1:20:15
Finally, he touches on joining @TheHeavyHitters, earning co-signs from legends like @BoogieBlind, working with Clark Kent and top brands, and scaling down post-COVID.

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