From Musician to Mentor: Dejehan “Luckystickz” Hamilton Shares His Journey on Hamilton Civic Museums’ Liner Notes
Before music became Dejehan “Luckystickz” Hamilton’s profession, it was part of his everyday life in Hamilton’s North End. Church musicians offered an early education in rhythm, expression and how to connect with an audience. Family encouragement helped turn that curiosity into practice.
In Episode 5 of Liner Notes, part of Hamilton Civic Museums and the City of Hamilton’s Gritty History podcast, Tune In Foundation’s founder and Executive Director traces the experiences that continue to shape his work with young people and emerging artists.
Learning through music and community
With family roots in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, Dejehan found a meaningful cultural connection in the Hamilton Youth Steel Orchestra. He arrived as a drummer, discovered steelpan and gained early experience rehearsing and performing alongside other young musicians.
His journey eventually led to Berklee College of Music and a professional career as a musician. The conversation returns to the people who encouraged him along the way—and the importance of knowing that opportunities exist in the first place.
Making room for the next artist
Dejehan founded Tune In Foundation in 2015, beginning with music programming for children. That commitment to access continues through The Blueprint, where artist development brings together creative practice, music-business learning, mentorship and performance.
For emerging artists, the episode offers a practical reminder: keep studying your craft and find people whose experience can help you navigate its challenges. It also shows why representation matters. Seeing someone from your community build a life in music can make an unfamiliar path feel possible.
Watch the full conversation, explore Tune In’s programs, or read about Tune In at Hamilton’s 2026 City of Music launch.
Episode credit: Hamilton Civic Museums / City of Hamilton — Gritty History: Liner Notes, Episode 5. Originally published in March 2026. This story was published October 18, 2026.