Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring DJ KG and the Legacy of Black DJs in Los Angeles

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring DJ KG and the Legacy of Black DJs in Los Angeles

Honoring Our Roots and Community

At Reach LA Angels, we believe in honoring the roots that shaped our rhythm, our culture, and our community. The legacy of Black DJs in LA is central to this story. This Black History Month, we pay tribute to a true pioneer—my father, the late George P. Kelley, affectionately known as DJ KG.

The Legend of DJ KG

DJ KG was more than a DJ—he was a vibe curator, a community connector, and a legend behind the turntables. In the 1970s, he earned his stripes spinning at the iconic Carolina West, one of Los Angeles’ most legendary Black-owned nightclubs. Known for his signature Red Charms lollipop and smooth transitions, DJ KG brought joy, soul, and unforgettable energy to every set. His presence behind the decks was magnetic, and his music made people forget their worries and live in the moment. His story is woven into the Legacy of Black DJs in LA. Additionally, his story continues to inspire new generations.

Carrying the Spirit Forward

That same spirit lives on through Reach LA Angels. While I may not be a DJ like my daddy, I inherited his passion for bringing people together. Our events are designed to celebrate culture and uplift community. They also create spaces where laughter, music, and connection take center stage. Whether you’re sipping something smooth, catching up with old friends, or dancing like nobody’s watching—we’re here to make sure you feel the love. Additionally, our gatherings hope to honour and carry forward the Legacy of Black DJs in LA.

Trailblazers of the LA DJ Scene

We also honor the trailblazers who helped shape the sound of Los Angeles. Delphine “Silky D” Williams broke barriers as one of the first female mix masters on West Coast radio, spinning on KDAY and KJLH. As the only female member of the legendary Uncle Jamm’s Army, she paved the way for generations of women in music. Her place in the Legacy of Black DJs in LA stands strong as an inspiration for many.

And then there’s Kevin “DJ Battlecat” Gilliam, a South LA native and G-Funk pioneer whose signature sound—fat synth basslines, soulful keys, and hard-hitting drums—defined an era of West Coast hip hop. Since the 1980s, DJ Battlecat has been a force in the game, producing for icons and keeping the culture alive.

Legendary Venues and Cultural Epicenters

Let’s not forget the legendary venues that gave these artists their stage. From the electric Thursday nights at Paradise 24, where the hottest artists would light up the mic, to the Golden Tail in El Segundo, where the grown and sexy crowd came to groove. Jewel’s Catch One, Club Lingerie, The Palace, and Vertigo, Glam Slam West by Prince, Duets, Eve After Dark—these clubs were more than nightlife. In fact, they were cultural epicenters, where Black excellence was celebrated and community was built.

A Toast to the Legacy

So this month, and every month, we raise our glasses to the DJs who gave us the soundtrack to our lives. To the clubs that held our stories. And to the legacy that continues to inspire us to dance, connect, and celebrate who we are. Without a doubt, the Legacy of Black DJs in LA will always echo through our celebrations.

Cheers to DJ KG. Cheers to Silky D. Cheers to Battlecat. Cheers to every DJ who ever made us feel seen, heard, and alive.

Stay tuned for Black History events on our Events page: https://reachlaangels.com/events/

— Erica “EMissyK” Lindsay
Founder of Reach LA Angels
Curator of Culture | Connector of Community | Daughter of a Legend

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