The letters “D” and “J” signify Professor Thomas Joo’s occupation and musical reputation. He earned a Juris Doctor — J.D. degree — from Harvard Law School and specializes in contracts as a UC Davis School of Law faculty member. But, with a stack of funky records and set of turntables, Joo transforms into the DJ known as Wax-On.
You can find him on the second Thursday of each month at Armadillo Music in downtown Davis. He’s known to cross the Yolo Causeway as well, spinning at Oak Park Brewery and Café Colonial in Sacramento.
Joo started branching into the DJ world as an undergraduate at Harvard College, where he earned a degree in East Asian studies and spun late nights on the campus radio station.
About 10 years ago, Joo was ready to get back in the mix. Along with a friend, Joo had a monthly gig at the former Hideaway Bar & Grill in Sacramento. He came equipped with soul and oldies records that he’d sourced from around the area.
“It’s fun for me to listen to music and the challenge of keeping it going and keeping the flow,” said Joo.
His daughter came up with the name DJ Wax-On, a nod to the Mr. Miyagi character in The Karate Kid. Musically, he specializes in soul and funk tracks, with touches of reggae and classic hip-hop as well. He opts for 45” singles due to their compact size and ease of cueing on the turntables. Joo said he doesn’t consider himself a hardcore collector but guesses he owns about 700 records.
Joo’s students often frequent his DJ Wax-On gigs. After all, his love of music is evident both in the classroom and beyond.
“I play music in class a lot to illustrate a lesson,” said Joo. “[One example is] ‘Give and Take’ by The Pioneers. I used that in a lesson about consideration in contracts.”
Overall, he said DJing is a great way to share music.
“When I DJed late at night on college radio it was hard to know if I was any good or not,” said Joo. “[In person,] it’s fun seeing people react and shift to what you’re playing.”