Austin DJ plays for high school seniors online after COVID-19 prom cancellation
A local DJ is stepping in to celebrate the class of 2020.
DJ Joe Louis Rodriguez is using his turntables to spark some joy and mark a big milestone for the high school seniors.
"I wanted to give back and make them feel happy and lift spirits up with their families," said DJ Joe Louis.
Over the weekend, DJ Joe Louis played for four hours on Facebook Live for local high school seniors.
"We went live and it went wild. We had tons of families joining us," said DJ Joe Louis.
He played a little bit of everything from country to Spanish-language music. In between songs DJ Joe Louis gave out shout outs coming in live on Facebook.
Last week, Austin ISD cancelled prom because of COVID-19.
It was a heartbreaking move for high school seniors and DJ Joe Louis.
"I worked for a school and a lot of these kids I've grown up to see him grow and so I was thinking about my kids," said DJ Joe Louis, who's a school security guard.
Many of his former students joined him, using the hashtag virtual prom 2020, and others dressing up in their unused prom wardrobe.
"Once I saw the videos and pictures, it brought me to tears. Like I was able to, to make a family happy," said DJ Joe Louis. "They're decorating their kitchen, they get dressed up. It's so great like how they interacted and how they were inspired."
His original post has been viewed over 20,000 times.
And the support for his virtual prom has been pouring in from Austin and around the country.
Many donating money and gift cards to give out to the seniors, a small token that they matter.
"Nobody's forgotten about you. We have not forgotten about you. I haven't forgot about y'all. Y'all are going to be great. You know, just motivate them," said DJ Joe Louis.
Another virtual prom is planned for this weekend, if you'd like to join DJ Joe Louis on Facebook.
If you'd like to donate to the virtual prom, you can contact DJ Joe Louis: joelouisrod@hotmail.com or (512) 228-1379.
EDITOR'S NOTE: During the coronavirus pandemic, the CBS Austin This Morning team is dedicated to highlighting the positive moments happening in Central Texas. If you have a story idea contact morning anchors: John-Carlos Estrada or Allison Miller.
