Are you ready to discover the next rising star in the music world? Look no further than our exclusive SHEDJ of the Week Weekly Feature! Each week, we handpick an incredible talent from the world of underground and independent music and showcase their exceptional skills, unique style, and captivating sounds.
What can you expect from SHEDJ of the Week? Prepare to be blown away by the electrifying beats, soul-stirring melodies, and boundary-pushing creativity that these emerging SHEDJs bring to the table.
Whether you're a dedicated music enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who loves uncovering fresh, innovative sounds, our weekly feature promises to deliver a captivating audio experience like no other. Join us in celebrating diversity, originality, and the raw passion that fuels the underground music scene. Ready to embark on a sonic adventure unlike any other?
#SHEDJ OF THE WEEK WITH DJ DAMZ
SHEDJS: What initially sparked your passion for DJing, and how did you get started in the music scene?
My connection with music began early in life, surrounded by hymns in church and attending events and gigs in Lagos, Nigeria. I’ve also been inspired by watching other Djs who have been ahead of me in the industry.
The DJing chapter of my story unfolded in Australia around June 2021. Since then,
I've immersed myself in crafting mixes that tell stories, drawing from diverse sounds to evoke emotions for both me and my audience. DJing, for me, transcends playing music; it's about creating an experience, a journey through the varied sounds that resonate with the audience.
SHEDJS: Can you share a memorable experience from one of your performances or events that stands out in your mind?
So many, but one memorable experience that stands out for me was when I was DJing a set at a club. The energy in the room was great, and everyone was on the dance floor having a good time. At one moment, I decided to switch things up and I dropped a throwback song that was a hit in 2008/2009. As soon as the song came in, the entire crowd screamed and started dancing with even more.
It was so lovely to see, and this reminded me of the power of music to stir up beautiful memories.
SHEDJS: How do you approach creating a setlist or choosing tracks for a particular event or venue?
When I'm DJing at a venue I've never been to before, I typically follow the theme of the night or event. For instance, if it's an afrobeat night, I'll plan to play mostly afrobeat music, but I'm always open to adjusting the playlist based on the energy of the crowd and reading the room.
For private events such as weddings or birthday parties, I make it a point to ask the host for song suggestions and recommendations. I also inquire about the demographics of their guests, including age and ethnicity, to ensure I create a tailored playlist that resonates with everyone in attendance.
SHEDJS: Are there specific genres or artists that have had a significant influence on your style?
This is a challenging question, and I've given it a lot of thought. My Nigerian heritage serves as a constant source of inspiration for me. When it comes to music genres, it's a wonderfully diverse mix. I draw from a wide range, including 2000s R&B, Afrobeat(s), Highlife, Juju, Fuji, Apala, Dancehall, and all sorts of other African vibes. I'm currently exploring genres like Tropical house, Deep house, and progressive house, influenced by artists such as AVICII, Kygo, and other Swedish musicians like the Swedes. I'm not entirely sure if there's already an audience for this blend, or if I'm ready to fully unleash this side of myself to the world. But, I’m sharing this here for the first time, and I'm hoping to find my groove and share it with everyone soon.
SHEDJS: In a constantly evolving industry, how do you stay updated on new music trends and technologies?
Social media is practically my second home—I live and breathe there, haha! TikTok, especially, has been a great source for trendy sounds. Plus, I'm lucky to have friends and people around me who are really into music, so I stay pretty up to date without even trying.
SHEDJS: Do you have any advice for aspiring DJs looking to break into the scene or enhance their skills?
Know your music and be open to continue learning. Also, don’t get distracted with the noise, focus on your why and you should be fine.
SHEDJS: What's next for you in terms of projects, collaborations, or upcoming gigs?
I've got some big plans in the pipeline—I'm all about collaborating with DJs, promoters, and brands from around the globe. I am also all about empowering more women who want to DJ. In short, I've got tons of ideas in the pipeline. I'm an overachiever who loves pushing boundaries, so you can trust that my next project will be something special.