Terance Takyi, an African American trailblazer in finance and entertainment, has seamlessly blended his illustrious career on Wall Street with his passion for music, emerging as a prominent figure in both fields. With an 18-year tenure on Wall Street and his current role as Managing Director at a leading financial institution, Terance has demonstrated exceptional prowess in wealth management, complemented by his alter ego, djTAO, captivating audiences at high-profile events worldwide.
His journey began at UNC Greensboro, where a chance encounter with a representative from the non-profit Inroads launched his finance career. Internships at First Citizens Bank led to offers from prestigious firms like Wachovia and JP Morgan. In 2006, he chose to start his career on Wall Street with JP Morgan, advancing from analyst to associate, before moving on to roles at ING (now Voya Financial) and Goldman Sachs. Despite facing challenges and microaggressions as one of the few Black professionals in the industry, Terance’s expertise and determination propelled him forward.
In 2021, Terance made history as the first and only Black Managing Director in private wealth at First Republic Bank. Following the bank’s collapse, he was aggressively recruited by several top firms, ultimately choosing his current institution for its global reputation and resources. Terance’s story is a testament to resilience and excellence, serving as an inspiration to aspiring professionals.
Balancing Finance and Music: The Birth of djTAO
Terance’s love for music began at a young age, inspired by the movie “Juice” featuring Tupac Shakur. Despite the demands of his finance career, he rekindled his passion for DJing in 2007, purchasing turntables and mixing equipment. His talent quickly gained recognition, leading to performances at the Guess store in Roosevelt Mall and eventually high-profile gigs for Armani Exchange and Remy Martin.
As djTAO, Terance’s unique blend of hip hop, dance music, R&B, and EDM has earned him a reputation as an open format DJ. His performances for iconic brands like Cartier, Nike, Nickelodeon, Edelman, Huffington Post and Remy Martin, and esteemed events such as the James Beard Foundation Dinner & Awards gala, showcase his versatility and creativity. Terance’s role as a celebrity guest DJ for the New York Knicks for eight years further cemented his status in the entertainment industry.
Bridging Two Worlds
Terance’s dual career has created a unique synergy, allowing him to connect with clients on a personal level through his music. His authenticity and ability to excel in both finance and DJing have garnered respect and admiration. He emphasizes the importance of passion and dedication, encouraging others to pursue their interests alongside their professional careers. “Being good at both finance and DJing requires dedication and continuous improvement,” says Terance. “It’s about breaking the mold and showing that you can excel in multiple fields without compromising your talents.”
Terance’s journey is not just about personal success but also about representation and mentorship. He is committed to uplifting his community and providing guidance to young professionals through his Advisory and Board Member commitments. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work and determination, it is possible to achieve greatness in diverse fields.
AboutTerance Takyi is a Managing Director at a leading financial institution and a celebrated DJ known as djTAO. With nearly two decades of experience on Wall Street and a passion for music, Terance has successfully merged his careers, inspiring many with his story of resilience, dedication, and excellence.
