DJ Laz Turns the Page
An exclusive interview on The Adventures of Largo and Lola
A Miami Icon • New Chapter • Four-Legged Heroes
DJ Laz with Largo and Lola
The inspiration for The Adventures of Largo and Lola
Illustration from The Adventures of Largo and Lola
A Story Inspired by Love and Companionship
In a city defined by energy, rhythm, and larger-than-life personalities, DJ Laz stands as a true hometown legend. For decades, his voice and sound have been woven into the fabric of Miami culture, influencing generations who grew up listening to his mixes on the radio, at parties, and throughout the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Often associated with global superstar Pitbull as both a mentor and close family figure, DJ Laz has long played a role in shaping the sound and spirit of Miami’s music identity. Yet beyond the turntables and airwaves, there’s another side to him that fans are now beginning to see more clearly, one rooted in compassion, creativity, and heart.
“I’ve always loved animals, especially my dogs, Largo and Lola. They’ve been a big part of my life, and I’ve always had this idea in the back of my mind to turn their personalities and little adventures into a children’s book. It just felt like the right time to finally bring that idea to life.”
DJ Laz in his Miami studio
Surrounded by career milestones
A Personal Passion Project
While DJ Laz’s career has long been defined by music, radio, and entertainment, The Adventures of Largo and Lola represents something far more personal. Inspired by his own experiences, the daily companionship of his dogs, and the support of his wife, the book reveals a quieter, more intimate side of the Miami icon.
Largo and Lola are more than characters; they are reflections of loyalty, friendship, and the joyful simplicity found in everyday moments. Through their adventures, DJ Laz introduces young readers to themes of compassion, kindness, and the meaningful bond between humans and their four-legged companions.
This new creative chapter reflects a more personal side of DJ Laz, where storytelling becomes a natural extension of the values, experiences, and heartfelt moments that inspired Largo and Lola.
Inspired by Largo and Lola
At the heart of The Adventures of Largo and Lola are the two companions who helped inspire its story. Drawn from their distinct personalities, playful adventures, and everyday moments, Largo and Lola became the foundation for a children’s book designed to spark imagination while sharing meaningful lessons with young readers.
Through their journey, readers are introduced to themes of friendship, kindness, and courage. Their adventures celebrate the joy of discovery and the importance of compassion, offering lessons that resonate with children and families alike.
For DJ Laz, the book represents a natural extension of his world, a heartfelt way to transform the love and connection he shares with Largo and Lola into a story families can enjoy together.
DJ Laz and co-author Joette Mendez, inspiration behind The Adventures of Largo and Lola
A Shared Vision
Every great story begins with inspiration, and for DJ Laz, that inspiration emerged from the everyday adventures shared with Largo and Lola. Whether spending time outdoors, enjoying quiet moments at home, or simply observing their unique personalities, the idea for a children’s book gradually began to take shape.
Alongside his wife and co-author, Joette Mendez, the story evolved into a meaningful collaboration, shaped by their shared love for animals, storytelling, and the values they hoped to pass along to young readers.
More Than a Book
For DJ Laz, The Adventures of Largo and Lola represents more than storytelling. Created in collaboration with his wife, whose background in education helped shape the heart of the narrative, the book reflects a shared vision centered on kindness, imagination, and meaningful connection. It is a project rooted not only in family and partnership, but also in the everyday moments that inspire lasting stories.
“My wife, who’s been an educator and librarian for a long time, really helped shape the story. Working on it together made the whole process even more meaningful.”
Through this project, DJ Laz shares values that have long shaped his personal life: compassion, loyalty, and the importance of meaningful relationships. These themes resonate throughout the story, creating a heartfelt experience for readers of all ages.
Connecting with a New Generation
For decades, DJ Laz has been a defining voice in Miami’s music and radio scene, connecting with audiences through energy, authenticity, and passion. Now, with The Adventures of Largo and Lola, he extends that legacy into storytelling, reaching families and young readers in a meaningful new way.
This transition into children’s literature reveals another dimension of DJ Laz’s voice. Through the adventures inspired by Largo and Lola, he brings the same warmth and personality that made him a Miami favorite into a format designed to spark imagination and connection.
In doing so, DJ Laz shows how storytelling can bridge generations, creating meaningful bonds that reach far beyond the airwaves.
“I love it! When I visit elementary schools, the kids have no idea who ‘DJ Laz’ is. All they know is that I am the guy in the picture on the back of their favorite book!”
DJ Laz with Miami music icons
Pitbull and Uncle Luke
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
Few figures have remained as deeply connected to Miami’s music scene as DJ Laz. From radio airwaves to live events and cultural milestones, his presence has helped shape the soundtrack of the city for decades.
Standing alongside Miami icons like Pitbull and Uncle Luke, DJ Laz represents a generation of artists and personalities who helped define Miami’s rise as a global music destination. His influence extends beyond entertainment, reflecting a lasting commitment to the culture and community that shaped his journey.
As Miami continues to evolve, DJ Laz remains a familiar and respected voice, one whose impact continues to grow both within the music industry and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As DJ Laz continues to evolve creatively, The Adventures of Largo and Lola marks the beginning of a heartfelt new chapter. Embracing storytelling as part of his growing journey, he opens the door to future adventures, fresh ideas, and meaningful connections with readers of all ages.
The Adventures of Largo and Lola is rooted in genuine inspiration, shaped by love, companionship, and imagination. The result is a story that feels both personal and universally relatable, capturing the warmth and spirit behind the project.
Now available in paperback on Amazon, The Adventures of Largo and Lola invites readers to embark on the duo’s first adventure and experience this special new journey firsthand.
With Largo and Lola leading the way, DJ Laz continues to spark imagination, kindness, and the simple joy found in everyday adventures. It serves as a reminder that the most meaningful stories often begin with the quiet moments that bring us together.
A portion of the proceeds from The Adventures of Largo and Lola supports Paws4you, a Miami-based nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and rehoming animals in need, extending the story’s message of compassion beyond the page.
Written by Imani Ogden
Edited & Published by Angie LaGuardia
Miami Shoot Magazine – MSMonline
DJ Laz: The Conversation Continues
Exclusive Q&A
A Miami Icon • A New Chapter • In His Own Words
In this exclusive Q&A, DJ Laz offers a more personal look into the inspiration behind The Adventures of Largo and Lola, sharing the moments, memories, and purpose that continue to shape his journey.
Q: What inspired you to create The Adventures of Largo and Lola?
I’ve always loved animals, especially my dogs, Largo and Lola. They’ve been a big part of my life, and I’ve always had this idea in the back of my mind to turn their personalities and little adventures into a children’s book. It just felt like the right time to finally bring that idea to life.
Since I was a small child, I’ve always had a connection with animals, especially dogs. That may come from the fact that I was named after St. Lazaro, the saint of healing, who is often depicted with dogs around him. My parents were both animal lovers as well, and I’m sure that played a huge role in my bond with dogs.
I’ve had many dogs throughout my life, but Lola and Largo are extremely special to our family. Their personalities are so different that it always makes for a fun time with them. This book is a sweet reminder of how opposites can love each other, compromise, and work together.
Q: What was it like working on the book with your wife?
My wife and I spoke about it for quite some time before we got to work on it. The timing just felt right, and we had a great time doing it together.
Her background as an educator and librarian played a key role in shaping the story. It was a fun, new challenge for both of us, and we embraced it fully.
Q: How does this experience compare to performing for a live audience?
There is an excitement of a live crowd at an event, whether it’s a crowd of 30,000 people or 20 little faces in a classroom or library. Both experiences are rewarding in different ways.
I absolutely love being able to make a crowd lose their minds when I drop a song during a show. As a DJ, you fully control the energy of the event. However, the innocent smiles on kids’ faces when I start doing voices along with the story are pretty amazing as well.
When you see the simple and genuine joy as a child reads a book you helped create, that’s pretty priceless.
“There is an excitement of a live crowd… whether it’s 30,000 people or 20 little faces in a classroom—both are rewarding in different ways.”
— DJ Laz
The Adventures of Largo and Lola by DJ Laz, where music meets storytelling.
Q: What message do you hope young readers take away from the book?
The simple lesson in this Largo and Lola book is that working together solves problems, and teamwork makes the dream work.
Ultimately, we wanted to create an engaging children’s story that they would want to read over and over again. We love the thought that maybe one day it will encourage future readers and writers to create stories of their own about things they are passionate about.
Q: Will there be more adventures for Largo and Lola?
Oh, we absolutely are continuing with The Adventures of Largo and Lola. The second book, Happy Tail, is currently in production.
Eventually, we would love to turn this into a full animated series. I’ve had tons of experience using my voice on the radio throughout the years, and I’m excited to challenge myself with voiceover work for the next generation.
Q: How has South Florida influenced your career and creative journey?
Being born and raised in South Florida has had a huge impact on my career and music. Miami is a melting pot, with a unique culture and flavor you won’t find anywhere else.
I’ve been blessed to showcase our city all over the world while touring with Pitbull. In the radio industry, many people are forced to move from city to city, so I know how fortunate I’ve been to grow and stay connected to the South Florida community.
It’s great to see people who grew up with me now raising families of their own and continuing to support me through every stage of life.
Q: What is it like connecting with children through the book?
I love it. When I visit elementary schools, the kids have no idea who “DJ Laz” is. All they know is that I’m the guy in the picture on the back of their favorite book. That’s pretty special to me.
Q: What advice would you give to others pursuing a passion project?
I truly believe in the quote that you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. I would encourage anyone to go for it. You never know who you might inspire along the way, and you never know what a passion project could turn into.
If you dream it, you can live it. Anyone who tells you to stay in your own lane is just scared of getting out of theirs.
Q: Why was it important to give back through this project?
Giving back to our community is an absolute privilege. South Florida has been so good to me and my family, so it only feels right to do what we can.
A big part of creating this series is to help rescue dogs, just like Largo and Lola were. A large portion of the proceeds from book sales goes to Paws4you.org, an amazing nonprofit organization in Miami that rescues and fosters animals until they can find their forever homes.
Q: What does this new chapter represent for you?
I’m still very much involved in music and entertainment, and I continue to travel the world as Pitbull’s opening DJ. I’m incredibly grateful to still be doing what I love.
At the same time, I now have the opportunity to explore new passions like children’s literature. If someone had told me 20 years ago that I’d be writing a children’s book, I would have thought they were crazy.
Interview by Imani Ogden
Edited & Published by Angie LaGuardia
Miami Shoot Magazine – MSMonline