Gone are the days when music DJs are seen as mere appendages of musicians; these days DJs are stars and celebrities in their right, as most of them have gone ahead to brand themselves as well as taking the profession so high that they even earn more than some musical stars. DJ MC Rayan is among the select few African DJs who have upped their craft, broken into stardom and made a name for themselves as a disk jockey.
Our correspondent recently caught up with him for a chat. Enjoy the excerpts
Who is DJ MC Rayan?
Mc Rayan, the DJ is a disk jockey, record producer, Entertainer, media personality and an Entrepreneur. He first gained prominence six years ago promoting underground talents. My breakthrough was inspired by 2 things; being an African music ambassador which was engaging in opportunities that helps push African music to higher heights. Secondly, my humble background was a daily reminder to keep pushing and reach for the sky. Every day is a chance to take a step further and elevate to greatness.
How it all began
It really all began with the dream– whatever you believe, whatever you love, wherever you see and everything that inspired you. Since I was young, music has been the language to my years. I love the way people communicate through music sending messages and vibes which creates good opportunities for people to relate and interact. My drive is what drove me into joining the industry and am glad to be a part of what African music had become today.
How I stay up to date with the latest music.
As a Disk Jockey, music has always been on my fingertips and I live in a metropolitan country where the entertainment scene is more demanding since people from different cultures and backgrounds connect in different social gatherings, I strive daily to stay updated through the internet so as to be on top of my game when needed. Above all, I am a very good listener in real life and I like to introduce myself to different type of music.
The most rewarding part of being a DJ
For me, the celebration from fans when I am performing in shows and making them happy is priceless. This apparently gives me the next gig and at the end of the day, that means good pay for my services. I also get to rub shoulders with the higher and mightier from different cultures.
How I handle requests and feedbacks from audiences.
Basically, I focus on the positive and I have learnt to listen where needed. I have good communication skills that I am able to handle people and the sort of music they request, I do it politely so as not to hurt egos at the same time, not to disrupt my flow.
DJS and music release; my take.
It is a new and amazing venture. Every DJ is a creative person and we have ideas of the kind of music the people want to listen to and dictates which music trends. I have released singles which are doing well in streaming platforms. 2021 is sort of a slow year for everybody due to the pandemic but definitely was a good creative space. Let’s expect new music soon.
Plans for another single, EP or album.
Everybody is hopeful that 2022 will be a brighter year, so do I. most definitely I shall be dropping singles and possibly an EP which by the way, is currently in discussion with my management.
The three values I uphold most.
My background has taught me that you have to show respect to earn respect regardless of class. To me, humility has definitely opened a lot of opportunities for me; likewise, hard work is my back bone to where I am today. Lastly, I always stay positive as it attracts good fortune.
Normal day in a DJ’s life.
Despite the music industry being a fast paced space, especially for busy DJs like me, I have learnt to organize my daily schedule and I have personal assistants who handle a wide array of schedules for me. One thing I don’t compromise is spending time with the people I love which is my family and friends. All the shows and money can wait when it is family time.
Upcoming gigs.
I have gigs almost every week but what I would like to talk about is an upcoming United Kingdom tour coming up 2022. Secondly, I and my team are planning the biggest festival in Kenya for 2022; it shall be a pan Africa festival where major musical artist from all over Africa shall grace one of the biggest stages in Africa. I am also putting finishing touches to my USA tour which shall feature entertainers from every state we are touring.