How Noise Complaints Makes Staying In Feel Like Going Out
Mark and Shehnaz Gonzales turned a lockdown project into a 500K-strong DJ community one viral set at a time
Written by Shaina Manlangit
During the pandemic, DJs faced a unique challenge of how to keep spinning when clubs were closed. For emerging DJs, it became an opportunity to experiment, learn new skills, and connect with listeners stuck at home. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube became digital stages, while Twitch made it easier for DJs to monetize their craft, allowing fans to subscribe, send bits, or donate directly.
One platform that has taken the at-home experience to the next level is Noise Complaints (@noise_complaints), founded in March 2024 by Filipino-American Mark Gonzales alongside his wife who’s the Director of Operations, Shehnaz Gonzales. In just over a year, Noise Complaints has grown to 385,000 subscribers on their YouTube Channel, 78,900 followers on their TikTok, and 62,100 followers on their Instagram—over 526,000 followers and subscribers combined.
The Noise Complaints journey began in a simple apartment setup. “It started because I left a job in the music industry. I used to work as a videographer/filmmaker for Empire. When I left for a tech job, I was no longer in music and doing what I love, so I invited some DJs to my apartment and filmed it because I have all this camera gear with me and posted it online,” Gonzales explained. “We did one in San Diego in an apartment community room, and that was the first viral video.” Since then, it has grown over the past nine months into outdoor events across major cities such as San Francisco, New York, and San Diego. Their most recent highlight was a two-day event where the first day sold out with 1,200 tickets, followed by the addition of a second day that drew 1,000 attendees on a yacht in San Diego. These live experiences capture the same immersive energy as their online sets while bringing fans together in real life, proving that Noise Complaints can turn any space—digital or physical—into a party.
Gonzales shared that the creation of consistent content was key to maintaining momentum. “I started DJing after the first Noise Complaints event because I needed to host sets on my own to keep the algorithm momentum going in between events, so we’d have content, which started getting more traction than the event videos themselves.”
Gonzales also shared on Instagram what people can expect both in-person and online. “They know what the vibe is. They go there because they want to dance. They go there because they want to listen to good music. They want to sing. They want to be on camera without feeling judged, honestly. We put so much emphasis on video because I want the viewers at home to feel like they are there with us.” Noise Complaints emphasizes community, inclusivity, and storytelling. Each set isn’t just music—it’s a shared experience, bringing fans together from different backgrounds through rhythm and creativity.
Noise Complaints has collaborated with artists such as DJ Sparky, RECAP, DJ Jehred, DJ LEX, and Miles Medina, among others. By spotlighting these talents, Noise Complaints not only provides a platform for their creativity but also cultivates a sense of pride and representation for the Filipino-American community. As Mark recalled, “Recently, at a San Jose event that Noise Complaints supported, two Filipinas came up to me and my wife, introduced themselves, and shared how much they love Noise Complaints. They thanked me for representing the Filipino community and doing what I’m doing because it lets us know what we can do—this really stuck with me.”
Mark’s Filipino-American upbringing also plays a subtle but meaningful role in his story. He shared memories of his parents moving from the Philippines to seek better opportunities for their children. He recalled how his mom would only eat half of a sandwich from Jack in the Box and save the rest for him. A small but poignant example of the sacrifices many Filipino-American families make. These personal touches resonate with the community, giving the platform authenticity beyond the music.
Looking ahead, Noise Complaints show no signs of slowing down. Next up, they’re returning to New York City for a Brooklyn R&B set, bringing their signature energy to the East Coast. Fans can RSVP for this highly anticipated event here. Beyond the U.S., Mark envisions global expansion: “What’s next for Noise Complaints is Thailand, London, and South Africa, and of course the Philippines. I want to make it big and an event that everyone remembers for a while. I want to take my time with that. But for sure, 2026, we’re looking at international events.”
With each new event and stream, the Gonzales’ continues to redefine the Noise Complaints experience, proving that staying in can feel just as exciting as going out.
Written by Shaina Manlangit
COCOLAB was founded by sisters Dr. Chrystle Cu and Catherine Cu. Dr. Chrystle Cu, a dentist, is passionate about enhancing oral care products. Catherine Cu, an artist, contributes her design expertise to the business.
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