Music, What's The Motive

DJ AB To Spin At KLAT’s First Official Party ‘What’s The Motive’

1 July

“Music and my love for making people happy is the reason I was inspired to DJ,” he begins. “I started DJing for my family on a Virtual DJ as a kid. I used to play onto our small desktop speakers in the living room during Eid and other celebrations. I remember talking to my friend Chantelle in Cardiff while walking and I told her, ‘I want to DJ.’ I started on my small party mix, and found a natural love for it. I did my first house party in Cardiff and since then, it’s been an incredible journey.”

That desire to spread joy through music has remained at the core of DJ AB’s career. From those early days of entertaining relatives, he’s gone on to host his own wildly popular events, including the aptly named “Having a Blast” parties.

“It’s really in the name,” DJ AB explains. “We bring different attractions to our events like instrumentalists, dancers, and artists. Attendees can expect to have a good time every single time. It’s not just a party; it’s an experience”

And what an experience it’s been. This year alone, DJ AB has hosted events featuring major Afrobeats stars like BNXN, bringing a taste of Lagos to the heart of Bristol. For him, these moments are more than just parties – they’re a celebration of his roots.

“Afrobeats is in my heart,” he echoes, his passion evident. “Ever since leaving Nigeria as a small kid, it’s never left me. From Iroking TV to Dagrin and Banky W, I just remember watching Wizkid’s ‘Holla at Your Boy’ video and being inspired. Afrobeats has stayed in my heart ever since.”

When asked about highlights from his recent events, such as Vibe with Bnxn, DJ AB’s eyes light up. “It’s seeing Afrobeats rise and grow. I just love playing music especially to people who come to have a good time and of course the performance from BNXN was very electric. A huge highlight is seeing these artists that I listen to on a regular basis in our cities and even being called to share the same stage with them.” He adds with excitement, “One memorable moment from the Bnxn event was hearing the hot song, ‘Gwagwalada’ live.”

But what makes DJ AB stand out in a crowded field? It’s his ability to read a crowd and take them on a journey. “A good DJ pays attention to the crowd,” he notes. “For me, it’s about having a look at my playlist, sorting the music out, and sharpening up my skills and mind before sets.” He elaborates on what makes a great DJ: “Some DJs love to scratch, some love to just mix in, but if it works for you and it sounds good, that’s what matters. Essential qualities in a DJ include beatmatching, scratching, and having basic music knowledge to please whatever crowd you’re playing for.”

That dedication to his craft is paying off. DJ AB is set to headline the first-ever KLAT Magazine party, promising attendees “the best of Afrobeats & Amapiano” along with some surprises. “Expect to hear some solid remixes and more,” he teases. “I’ll be bringing you new sounds. Lend me your ears and let me take you on a journey!”

When it comes to keeping his sets fresh in Cardiff, where he’s already well-known, DJ AB has a strategy. “I just try to keep the music fresh and exciting. There’s so much good music, new and old and I try my best to play music that I think is good while also adding my own little spice to it. That’s what it’s about for me and I hope it continues to work.”

The DJ draws inspiration from a wide range of industry figures. “In the music industry, I am a huge fan of pioneer DJs like Spinall, Spaceship, Sean, Era and DJ MVP. I also really like artists like Asake. He came onto the scene, set his image and just gave us bangers. Don Jazzy and Olamide are also big influences for me, what they have done for the industry cannot go unnoticed and it’s inspiring.”

As for the future? DJ AB’s eyes light up as he talks about his plans for Summer 2024. “It’s my birthday in August, and I have so much in store for the community,” he reveals. From brunch parties in London to festivals in Bristol and Leicester, it’s clear that DJ AB’s star is on the rise. “We have our brunch and blast day parties which are happening in London on the 4th of August and the 11th of August in Bristol. Also a couple of Festivals coming up in July like On the Rocks (Bristol/Southwest) and Bacardi Fest (Leicester) in Bristol which went crazy last time.”

It’s easy to see why DJ AB has become such a beloved figure in the UK Afrobeats scene with his genuine love for music. As our conversation winds down, he leaves us with a heartfelt message: “Honestly, it’s been an amazing year so far and I really just want to thank everyone for the support for Having A Blast Ent and YourDJAB. The next half of the year will be my favourite project thus far. Let’s have a blast!”

One thing’s for certain – wherever DJ AB is spinning, you are sure to have a blast!

Watch the full KLAT Magazine official party, What’s The Motive, featuring DJ AB.