Biography

Calvin Callins Jr. (also known as CJ) is no stranger to entertainment, boasting a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Ringling College of Art & Design and an impressive career as an award-winning short filmmaker, DJ, event coordinator, and talk show producer. In 2024, CJ made the move to Chicago, where he has expanded his creative footprint by producing his own talk show, Soul Karaoke, a celebration of music, culture, and community. Most notably CJ has started working with Chance The Rapper and Taylor Bennett.

Recently honored at the Directors Guild of America theater in New York as a Top Director to Watch, CJ was also selected to serve on the Board of Trustees at Ringling College of Art & Design, continuing his connection to the institution that shaped his artistic foundation.

With multifaceted skills as a filmmaker, DJ, event host, and producer, CJ embodies the new wave of dynamic creatives who can deliver experiences that transcend boundaries fostering spaces where people can connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories.
- IMDb mini biography by: Calvin Callins Jr