Brad Baxter, who performs as DJ That Guy, is seen during a previous performance in this photograph from his Facebook page.
DJ That Guy is a well-known staple at area parties and events, but a recent theft has left him unable to perform.
“It’s huge,” said Brad Baxter, aka DJ That Guy, of the impact of the theft. “I lost out on a lot of money this weekend because I don’t have anything to DJ with.”
A fundraiser to help Baxter replace his stolen gear is scheduled to start 8 p.m., April 29, at O’Blarney’s Irish Pub in Centralia.
On Friday, Baxter learned karaoke and DJ equipment was stolen from Legends Sports Bar & Grill in Centralia.
“I jumped in my truck and raced over there,” he said.
He arrived at the bar to find police were responding to the theft.
“I walked in and sure enough my stuff was gone,” he said.
Baxter’s speakers, subwoofers, amplifier rack, microphones and miscellaneous cords were among the equipment taken. He regularly DJs at the bar, and left some of his equipment there through the week for karaoke nights.
“Luckily I took my computer and mixer with me,” he said.
Overall, Baxter’s stolen equipment is valued at about $4,600. He acquired much of it over time, and said he isn’t able to replace all of it at once.
Baxter has been DJing at bars and events since 2009, and has quickly become a fixture at area celebrations.
“I literally started out with an iPod playing off a local bar’s stereo system,” he said.
Baxter said he enjoys entertaining people with his musical selections. He borrowed money from a local bar owner to buy his first real DJ equipment and worked off the debt by DJing parties. Over the past several years, he’s added to his collection.
“I slowly built up equipment,” he said.
The theft has left Baxter without the ability to DJ unless he is able to rent or borrow equipment from other DJs. Further complicating matters, Baxter and girlfriend Tamara Koldos recently moved into a new house.
“I’ve got a lot of weddings this summer I’ve already booked and taken deposits,” he said.
Baxter’s equipment wasn’t insured, and he’s recently learned Legends did not have insurance to cover his loss either.
Barking Mad Coffee Co. in Chehalis will also have a fundraiser for Baxter on April 29th. The shop will donate $1 for every drink sold that day to help him get new equipment.
Baxter said he is amazed by how supportive the community has been, both by setting up fundraisers to help him and by loaning him equipment.
“It’s been incredible how many people … have reached out,” he said.
Baxter is scheduled to DJ the event using equipment loaned by O’Blarneys.
