DJ Big Rez: Lummi Nation's Voice on the Turntables
In the Pacific Northwest, the Indigenous music scene continues to grow thanks to artists and DJs who dedicate themselves to uplifting community voices. One of the most recognizable figures helping push that movement forward is DJ Big Rez, a DJ, radio host, and event emcee representing Lummi Nation near Bellingham, Washington.
Known offstage as David "Bigrez" Hillaire, he has spent decades supporting Indigenous artists, organizing events, and using music to bring communities together.
Roots in Lummi Nation
DJ Big Rez was born and raised in Lummi Nation, where he has remained deeply connected to his community. His nickname actually came from his youth playing basketball. A coach once joked that instead of NBA player "Big Country" Bryant Reeves, the team had "Big Rez." The name stuck and eventually became his DJ identity.
His connection to Lummi Nation is central to his work today. DJ Big Rez frequently emcees major community gatherings, including the Stommish Festival, one of the most well-known cultural events celebrating Coast Salish canoe culture and competition.
From Mobile DJ to Festival Stages
DJ Big Rez began his career around 2001, starting as a mobile DJ performing at weddings, dances, and community events. What started as a side hustle eventually grew into a larger platform that brought him into:
- Concerts and festivals
- Hip-hop shows
- Indigenous cultural gatherings
- Community celebrations throughout the Pacific Northwest
Over the years he has opened and performed at events featuring major hip-hop artists such as Lil Flip, Yukmouth, and Spice 1, gaining recognition for his ability to bridge mainstream hip-hop with Indigenous audiences.
The REZolution Radio Show
DJ Big Rez also hosts "The REZolution," a hip-hop radio show broadcast through Daybreak Star Radio in Seattle.
The show focuses on:
- Indigenous hip-hop artists
- Underground rap music
- Indigenous voices and stories
For Big Rez, the mission has always been about creating space for Indigenous artists to be heard in a music industry where those opportunities have often been limited.
Through the radio platform, he continues to spotlight artists across Turtle Island while helping connect communities through music.
Community Leadership
Beyond DJing and radio, DJ Big Rez is known for his strong involvement in community work. He regularly supports youth programs, music events, and Indigenous cultural gatherings.
He also serves as a board member of the L'haqtemish Foundation, continuing his commitment to community development and cultural leadership within Lummi Nation.
His work demonstrates how hip-hop culture can intersect with community leadership, mentorship, and cultural pride.
A Pillar of Indigenous Music in the Northwest
While artists often take the spotlight, DJs play a critical role in shaping the culture behind the scenes. For more than two decades, DJ Big Rez has helped build the Indigenous hip-hop ecosystem throughout the Pacific Northwest.
From community dances and weddings to radio broadcasts and major festivals, his work has helped keep Indigenous music thriving in the region.
In the world of Indigenous hip-hop, figures like DJ Big Rez are the connectors—the ones who bring artists, communities, and audiences together.
And from Lummi Nation to stages across the Northwest, DJ Big Rez continues to help move the culture forward.
Follow DJ Big Rez on Instagram, [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/djbigrez), and [SoundCloud](https://soundcloud.com/djbigrez).