In Conversation with DJ Timi: Connecting Africa and Wales Through Music

DJ Timi may be based in Wales, but his Nigerian roots are at the heart of everything he does. As an Afrobeats DJ, performer, and live host, he’s quietly building bridges—introducing Welsh audiences to the energy, rhythm, and culture of African music while creating spaces for collaboration between African and Welsh artists.

“My role is really about opening people’s eyes and ears to the richness, creativity, and talent that African artists bring,” he says. For Timi, it’s more than just music, it’s about connecting cultures, shaping experiences, and showing that African music has a place on every stage, from local clubs to international recognition.

His sets are a carefully curated mix of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, Hip-Hop, and R&B, combining familiar sounds with fresh African tracks. “Being able to adapt to the crowd while delivering a solid performance comes down to preparation, experience, and a genuine love for both the craft and the people you’re playing for,” he explains. This approach ensures that both African and non-African audiences leave with a memorable experience.

Since moving to Wales, Timi has worked with events and promoters like Chop Life, OTID Entertainment, The Lagos Night, TAE Events, and Prime Rave, helping African music reach wider audiences. “This year, it’s actually a personal project I’ve set for myself—to make sure African music has a strong and lasting presence here,” he notes. His efforts also include collaborating with radio stations in Wales to get African music on air, connecting communities through sound and culture.

Timi is also committed to mentorship. He was one of the mentors and tutors at the KLAT DJ Showcase, a programme sponsored by the Arts Council of Wales, where he led the Afrobeat workshop, combining West African rhythms with contemporary sounds. Through this, he’s helping teach the next generation of DJs in Wales how to blend African music with modern genres.

There are differences between African and Welsh nightlife, he admits, with a laugh: “Honestly, there isn’t much of a difference—except that nightlife in Africa can go on until around 6 am!” But sharing this perspective has helped audiences understand and appreciate African culture in a new way.

Recognition has followed, including being a DJ of the Year finalist at the KLAT Awards and serving as a resident DJ at Chop Life UK, where he’s helped build Afro-centric nightlife and meaningful cultural spaces in Wales. “Representation matters. Platforms that spotlight African identity allow our stories, sounds, and experiences to be told authentically,” he says.

Looking ahead, Timi is positioning himself for global opportunities, building a portfolio that highlights his impact as a cultural connector. “The goal is to connect cultures, generations, and communities through music,” he explains. By blending African and Welsh sounds and creating spaces for collaboration, Timi is not just performing—he’s paving a path for African music on international stages.

For anyone curious about Afrobeats or the wider African music scene, a DJ Timi set is more than a night out—it’s a bridge between cultures, a celebration of heritage, and a glimpse of global talent in action.

Read more Music articles from KLATMAG

Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo

Images by Taiye Omokore

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