If you’ve ever vibed to a killer set in Cardiff, chances are DJ Dan Willow was behind the decks, crafting the mood and elevating the atmosphere. A DJ with over 15 years of experience, Dan is known for bringing his unique set to iconic events and venues like the Black History Wales Music Festival, Tramshed, and The Globe Cardiff. Now, he’s gearing up to bring that same magic to KLAT’s Creative Link-Up at Sustainable Studios — an event that’s set to merge networking with creativity.
Dan’s venture into DJing started at home. “Music was always a big part of my upbringing. My dad, who was also a DJ, was my biggest influence,” Watching his father command a crowd and receive credit for his craft ignited an obsession in him that quickly blossomed into a passion. Since then, he’s gone from a local DJ to playing international gigs, from the UK to Ibiza, and Marbella, most notably with the Kisstory brand.
Kisstory, he notes, was pivotal in shaping his career: “Doing events with them across the UK and abroad really took me from just playing locally to a whole new level of recognition.” These experiences opened doors, not only geographically but creatively, pushing him to refine his sound and develop his signature style.
And when it comes to preparing for an event like What’s The Motive, Dan takes a different approach, partcularly, reading the room and letting the crowd’s vibe guide his set.
“Playing a club set is about giving people what they want to hear, but an event like this is a chance to dig out hidden gems that really make me stand out as a DJ. It’s about showcasing my own creative style.”
At the upcoming KLAT’s Creative Link-Up, Dan’s excited to set a tone that balances relaxation with energy. “I want to create an environment that helps people feel relaxed, but also give the room an energy that encourages people to interact,” His multi-genre sets — with Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Dancehall at the forefront — are all about staying fresh and innovative. “I’m constantly on the hunt for new music. The feeling I get when I find a song that resonates keeps me hungry as a DJ.”
For those new to Dan Willow’s performances, he promises versatility an infectious energy that’s hard to resist. “I think being on the scene for as long as I have has given me a lot of experience, and I genuinely enjoy music. That enthusiasm rubs off on the crowd, cause beyond just delivering great beats, I am deeply invested in building a sense of community through my events.”
His Timeless events, including the upcoming Christmas Brunch in December, continue this tradition, offering an R&B-filled experience that goes beyond just listening to music. Explaining his inspiration for starting the event, Dan says, “My sister is an amazing singer, and I wanted to create a space where people could truly get involved—sing along, feel part of something special. Seeing the same faces return event after event makes it all worthwhile.
As Cardiff’s creative scene evolves, Dan believes events like What’s The Motive are crucial in fostering collaboration and bringing out untapped talent in the city. “Cardiff’s a diverse city, but I feel like the scene has been lacking in creativity. Events like this help bring creative people together and discover fresh talent.”
To aspiring DJs, Dan’s advice is clear: patience and perseverance are key. “It’s easy to get put off with how quickly things can change, but taking risks, travelling, and seeking out opportunities that suit your style and character will surely help you succeed.”
I would say, If you’re attending the KLAT’s Creative Link-up, be prepared for surprises, exclusive tracks, and a vibe that only Dan Willow will deliver.
Read more Music articles from KLATMAG
Creative Direction & Styling by Angelina Mablé @Angelina.esi.m
Photography by Taiye Omokore @taiye_omokore
Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
