Latest news with #DJShock
France 24
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- France 24
Kenyan women jockey for place at DJ turntables
Kimtai gushed over the skills she learnt on the intensive four-week course at the Santuri Electronic Music Academy (SEMA), which she hopes will help her thrive in a world historically dominated by men. "I can do everything. I can mix, I can beat-match. I can assess the energy level of music," said the 32-year-old aspiring DJ. Established in 2021 and named after the Swahili word for vinyl, the academy sees itself as a hub for musical innovation and inclusion. "Prior to this I was just a lover of music," said Kimtai, whose stage name is "But I wanted to be able to fuse different genres -- travel across different worlds." Carving out a place in the electronic scene remains a challenge for Kenyan women. The organisation that runs the academy interviewed dozens of artists in 2020 for a study and found women were gaining visibility as DJs in east Africa. Yet they remained marginalised and paid significantly less than men, while music production was also male-dominated and training costs too high for many. SEMA has since trained hundreds of people in production, mixing, DJing and other elements of the business. Besides encouraging women and minorities to take part, the academy also raises sponsorship funding for those who need it. "When I started DJing, I would have really liked to have had something like this because the teachers I had were all men," said DJ Shock, who was leading a class on the commercial side of the business during a visit by AFP. She only knew two other female DJs when she started out 20 years ago, and said the men would "gatekeep" the art. "It was a bit of a struggle to get them to share information equally," she said. 'Equal dopeness' At the back of the classroom, speakers were stacked behind a turntable, while trainees tapped away on mixing software in preparation for an imminent final presentation. "We're the people who are going to make spaces get safer for everyone," said Daisy Nduta, 28, a recent sound engineering graduate. She was excited to be DJing live soon under her stage name Naniwho. Santuri organises frequent events for the students to test their skills. "We welcome everybody the same... We put anybody prime time who we feel can do the spot well," said DJ Shock, denouncing the way clubs often relegate women to play the opening slots when audiences are sparse. Things are rapidly improving for women who DJ in Nairobi, however. Women are earning headline slots at major clubs while collectives like "Sirens" organise women-centric events. That success is part of a global pattern. Industry network "female:pressure" says the number of women performing at electronic music festivals rose from just over nine percent in 2012 to 30 percent in 2023. In Kenya, "there are more and more female DJs coming up... They're getting more confident, which I love," said Tina Ardor, who regularly performs at Muze, a Nairobi electro mecca. She said there was still a widespread, often unconscious, favouritism toward men. But the SEMA course, which she did two years ago, is helping to change attitudes. "I'm not a fan of pulling the gender card," said Ardor, hoping the scene soon gets to a point where there is "equal opportunity and equal dopeness" for everyone. © 2025 AFP
Web Release
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Turn Up the Volume This Father's Day with a Unique Stay and DJ Masterclass at Rixos The Palm Dubai
Turn Up the Volume This Father's Day with a Unique Stay and DJ Masterclass at Rixos The Palm Dubai Encourage your dad to let loose this Father's Day at Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites, where the traditional celebrations will be getting a remix. On Saturday, June 21st, from 3:00PM to 5:00PM, the captivating beachfront resort will host a one-of-a-kind DJ masterclass in partnership with DJ Corner, allowing fathers and their children to step behind the decks and learn the basics of DJing side by side. This high-energy, music-fuelled experience is bound to strike the perfect chord between fun and family bonding, making this incredible property the ideal location to mark the occasion in style. The energetic DJ masterclass, hosted by industry experts from DJ Corner, will see dads and their kids learn foundational DJ techniques such as beat matching and looping across a series of fun, 15-minute sessions. Promising a fresh, engaging way to connect through the power of music, and with professional equipment provided on site, this hands-on experience is perfect for families looking to try something new together. Adding to the excitement, the event will feature two very special guests, DJ Michelle and her father, DJ Shock, a dynamic father-daughter duo who have both made waves in the global DJ scene. DJ Michelle, the youngest professional DJ in the region, has performed on some of the world's biggest stages, including Tomorrowland and Coca-Cola Arena. Her father, DJ Shock, brings over 25 years of experience spinning for high-profile brands and international stars. On the day, they'll each be performing a live 10-minute set to inspire families and showcase how musical passion can be shared across generations. This unforgettable afternoon would not be possible without DJ Corner, the UAE's leading 'one-stop DJ shop.' Founded by DJs for DJs, DJ Corner has spent nearly two decades nurturing talent and supplying high-quality equipment to music lovers across the region. With five locations across the country and a passion for making music accessible, DJ Corner continues to fuel the UAE's vibrant DJ culture, one beat at a time. Set on the stunning shores of Palm Jumeirah, Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites is the ideal backdrop for meaningful moments with your loved ones. Known for its All-Inclusive, All-Exclusive concept, the resort seamlessly blends luxury, relaxation, and excitement to offer something for every generation. This is a destination where unforgettable memories are made, and Father's Day is no exception. Now is your chance to discover a new hobby and learn the art of creating electrifying beats. Don't miss out, join in the fun, and celebrate your bond through music by booking your stay at Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites for a fun, family-friendly escape that hits all the right notes. When: Saturday, June 21st from 3:00PM to 5:00PM What: DJ masterclass with appearances from DJ Michelle & DJ Shock, in partnership with DJ Corner Price: Free for all in-house guests; Room prices starting at AED 2,699 all inclusive minimum 2 nights. For bookings and more information, please contact +971 (4) 457 5555 or [email protected]
