DJ Laz: The Conversation Continues

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.