By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
When you think of a true Renaissance man, Roderick King, better known as DJ Lyte-N-Rod, is a name that should come to mind. Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, King has transformed his passion for music and community into a thriving array of businesses that serve the city in multiple ways. From his early days as a DJ to becoming a multifaceted business owner, King’s journey is an inspiring testament to creativity, resilience and community spirit.
The DJing Journey Begins
King’s love for music ignited at the tender age of 14 when he saw Grandmaster Flash on MTV in the early ’80s. Watching the legendary DJ work his magic with two turntables and a mixer, King was instantly hooked. “Flashing,” as it’s called in the DJ world, says King, involves manipulating the same record back and forth, creating a seamless flow of music that keeps the energy alive.”
From DJ to Business Mogul
While DJing remains his first love, King’s entrepreneurial spirit has naturally led him to explore other avenues. He started Lyte House Sound, Video & Lighting, a company that installs sound and video equipment. His innovation didn’t stop there; “I became the first in Ohio to pioneer video DJing, while mixing and scratching DVDs, ” King recalls. “When the technology came out it was super expensive, so I sold my car rims and my motorcycle to buy the equipment,” His commitment to excellence not only paid off, it set a new standard in the industry.
Expanding Horizons: Lyte House Music & More
“On my journey I learned that most bars and clubs were not equipped with the proper sound and lighting. Most music engineers at the time wired themselves to the sound stereo, but I also taught myself how to wire into my clients’ video feeds.”
With a wealth of self-taught knowledge under his belt, King then launched Lyte House Music & More, offering DJ/VJ services for all types of events, from clubs and concerts to private parties.
“Now my company also handles event planning and promotion, sound and video installation, and TV and radio ad production,” he explains. This holistic approach to entertainment and media has made Lyte House a household name in Toledo.
Revving Up: Lyte House Customs
“In 2016, I bought a Slingshot specialty vehicle, only to crash it shortly after,” he recalls.
Underinsured and unable to afford professional repairs, he decided to fix it himself. Essentially, he “pimped his ride” and everyone, everywhere took notice. “This DIY project led to the creation of Lyte House Customs, a business specializing in customizing Slingshot vehicles. “Everyone wanted their Slingshot customized. SLANG GANG!”
In 2018, Polaris noticed his work and sponsored him on a campaign road trip to Chicago, enabling him to expand his reach and overtime, his operations. “In 2020, I renovated my garage to accommodate three machines at once, and turned my passion of customization into another profitable venture.”
A Taste of Success: Lyte House Burgers & Billiards
Building on his history in the bar business, King opened Lyte House Burgers & Billiards.
“In the summer of 2022, I had made enough profit to purchase my own bar. With the experience I gained setting up sports bars and nightclubs, I thought, ‘It’s time for my own,’ ” says King.
This venue not only serves up delicious food but also offers a fun atmosphere for billiards enthusiasts. It’s a place where people can gather, relax, and enjoy great music – often spun by DJ Lyte-N-Rod himself.
Giving Back: The Bar Bounce
DJ Lyte-N-Rod’s latest initiative, the 1st Annual Black-Owned Bar Bounce, epitomizes his commitment to community. This year’s event showcased various Black-owned bars in Toledo, with each night featuring a different venue. “The smaller the room, the bigger the party,” King says, highlighting the intimate yet lively atmosphere of each spot. The Bar Bounce not only promotes local Black owned businesses but also fosters a sense of unity and pride within the community.
“It was an amazing experience, thank you to all who participated.”
Celebrating African American Culture
As part of this year’s Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union’s 19th Annual African American Parade and Festival, King’s influence was evident. Held on July 20, the festival featured DJ Lyte-N-Rod’s dynamic sounds and musical performances by Jagged Edge, Raheem Devaughn, Pokey Bear, and Shirley Murdock. Comedian Kelly Williams, multimedia creative Jodie L. Summers, and saxophonist Mike Williams also graced the Huntington Center stage. With over 4,500 people in attendance, the event was a massive success.
A Philosophy of Service and Opportunity
For King, success is not just about personal achievement but also about serving others and seizing opportunities. “When something comes my way, I can only fail by not attempting it,” he says. His initiatives, like the Bar Bounce, are inspired by a desire to improve the mindset and opportunities within the black business community. By supporting and collaborating with local talent, King believes in creating an ecosystem that uplifts everyone involved.
A special message
“None of this could have ever happened without God and my beautiful wife,” he acknowledges.
Together, Rod and Erin King have built a business empire that not only entertains but also enriches our Glass City communities one person at a time.
As DJ Lyte-N-Rod says at the end of every DJ set, “Thank you, Toledo, I love this city!”
Well, Mr. Rod King, we love you right back!
Your innovative spirit, dedication to service, and genuine love for our community are unmatched. Go DJ, that’s our DJ!
Follow the beat: facebook.com/lytenrod
2024 Bar Bounce Black Owned Local Businesses:
“Lyte House Burgers & Billiards” 2114 W. Alexis Rd.
“Center Court” 5929 Heatherdowns Blvd.
“Roberts” 2635 N. Detroit Ave.
“The 406” 406 Westwood Ave.
“Bar Netts” 3335 Lagrange St.
“Classic Lounge” 2224 Nebraska Ave.
“The Grenadier” 1343 Avondale Ave.