What was life like before you became a record player?
Life was good. I played the guitar, piano and saxophone and was in the choir during secondary school. I then went to the Nigerian Television Authority competitions and was a team commander for three years in another high school in Ogun State.
What inspired you to become a DJ?
Funnily enough, a bartender inspired me to become a DJ. I saw how he mixed different drinks and I thought about how I could mix different genres of music.
What event brought you to the limelight?
University of Lagos Kofo Hall Week, 2018 hosted by Tobby Shang. I got the gig through Sulcata Entertainment, an affiliate of Universal Music and home to Spirit Mix. It was a one-week event. I got a lot of exposure and was rumored to be dubbed ‘Fine Boy DJ’.
Does being Ali Baba’s son help you succeed in your industry?
As far as I know, it hasn’t, because I’m building my legacy. Any support for his (my father’s) brand is welcome and I am grateful to have a legendary icon as a father and padi.
How do you stay relevant in your space?
Through social media, mainly Tik Tok and Instagram reels. I’ve also put some mixes up on Soundcloud. I regularly release videos on social media @edgethedj and play various clubs across Canada from Windsor and Ontario to Ottawa.
You are a Nigerian DJ living in the diaspora, what made you relocate?
I have no choice. With the way the country is, who wouldn’t go Japa? But I will come back every now and then to see family and friends and see what can be done to improve Nigeria.
Has it been easy to combine DJ work with school?
It has been difficult. Course work, assignments, internships, getting to concerts, work from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and then I have to come home to study so I don’t fall behind. It’s all about balancing one’s schedule. It’s been hard, but I can make it work because I have to.
It’s funny how my parents worked, did so many things and still went to school, I thought it was an exaggeration and it couldn’t be that hard. Now that I’m living it I’ve seen how it can be.
How do you compare life in Nigeria with what you get there?
It’s cold and icy here. Some people think that the moment they go abroad, the good life starts. But if it doesn’t go well at first, it can be detrimental to progress.
What challenges did you face in Nigeria, different from where you are?
Nigerian DJs love to pack gigs. This makes things difficult, especially when established DJs are booked for more than one gig at a time. Recommending other DJs to participate would give upcoming DJs or any other DJs a chance to showcase and improve their skills.
This does not happen in Canada. Canada, however, has several challenges, such as distance (from one point to another) and gas (gasoline) prices not falling.
How did you succeed abroad?
First, it is by the grace of God. I also network with people in the industry at various events. One must market oneself both on and off social media.
Do you still relate to Nigerian fans?
Not as much as I would like. The last time I was in Nigeria was for New Year 2020. I hope to do an event to connect with them soon.
What is your hope for the country and the entertainment industry?
My hope for the industry is better structure, more love and less ego. Most importantly, fire all the gatekeepers. Also, I would love to see more women grow in the industry like DJ Nana and DJ Anonymous.
What advice do you have for upcoming DJs?
I’ll repeat this: you have to walk both on and off the deck. You have to put yourself out there. Also, don’t take just any gig. The type of gigs you take defines you. It’s not just easy money; it’s your brand and your passion.
