Alex 'Axial' Smith
Georgia State junior Alex Smith is putting to use his courses in finance and business management as he connects his hospitality studies to his career goals in the music industry.
Interview by Zohra Basmadijan
Who is Alex Smith?
I am a third-year hospitality student at Georgia State. I was born in Canada, but I’ve lived in Atlanta most of my life, and I’ve always really loved music. When I was 17, I bought a DJ controller and I never put it down. That’s what led me to pursue a career as a DJ and music producer. My stage name is Axial. I mix and produce music genres such as techno, house and electronic — anything I feel like making at the time. I am also the co-founder and head of hospitality for an entertainment company I started with other Georgia State students.
How did you choose hospitality administration as your major?
I’ve wanted to major in hospitality since I was 16. My dad owns a restaurant, so it runs in the family. I also have been in the industry for the past few years. I currently work at Park Tavern as a food prep and server’s assistant. Being in food service and nightlife as a DJ kind of all connects to what I am currently learning in my hospitality classes. So, at the end of the day it is just a never-ending learning process for me.
What is the most exciting part of DJing and making music?
I get to go to a variety of places and meet cool people. I’ve gotten to do sets with Sam WOLFE and Viv Castle, and I’ve gotten to perform at venues such as Believe Music Hall, Underground Atlanta and the Kookoo Room. I think it’s awesome that I get paid to press buttons that make music play while having fun at the same time. I have the freedom to do whatever I want with different beats and instrumentals.
How have your hospitality courses helped you in your personal and academic life?
Some of my courses consist of financial and business management classes. The key things I’ve learned are how to effectively manage my finances and the main aspects of running a successful business, whether it’s about the service, promotion or clientele. That also connects to what I do in DJing as well. With my personal branding, I have to constantly promote myself and make sure I provide an enjoyable service — a performance — that fits a specific crowd of people.
What artists have inspired your music the most, and who are your favorites?
I wouldn’t say any specific artists inspire my music. I am inspired by my own creativity and mind. But some of my favorite artists are Fred again and SOLOMON, and my most favorite is Kid Cudi. I’ve seen all of them at music festivals and in concert and they were phenomenal. I think their music is creative and unique — it doesn’t sound like anything else.
Aside from DJing, are there any other activities you enjoy?
I enjoy going to the Chattahoochee River and taking walks or hikes. I always went there as a kid. I liked to climb the rocks or just look at the animals in the water. The river is my favorite part of Atlanta. It helps me escape the city and find peace of mind. I also enjoy going to music festivals. I’ve been to festivals such as EDC Orlando, Bonnaroo and Music Midtown. I like how you have a variety of artists to choose from without paying tons of money for every single one of their concerts. It’s just all in one.
What do you hope to achieve in your career?
In the future, I want to headline a big music festival or do a set somewhere in Europe. I’d also love to live on the beach, maybe in Europe where I can be at peace and be surrounded with good vibes, people, music and food. I also hope to own restaurants and nightclubs, possibly a tiki bar.
