Chit Chat With . . .

Deejay SKILLZ

Humble, a word underrated now-a-days, but this gentleman oozes humbleness from his core. He knows his music and never fails to get the crowd going. One who plays a diverse genre of music from Afrobeats, to 80s, 90s, 00s music, to bollywood to electro and techno. His dedication, professionalism and punctuality set a high bar for others in his profession. This month our Chit Chat is with Deejay SKILLZ, who talk about the profession, morning routine, winding down, and living the dream.

Tell us a bit about yourself, who is DJ Skillz?

My name is John Kitenge, a corporate DJ and professional entertainer, currently working with s five 8 bar & restaurant in Mombasa, I also have a guest DJ contract in Nairobi called stake out b, basically I’m a freelance DJ

How did you come about choosing your DJ name “Skillz”?

it originated from the old school song called “I wish” by Skee-lo, it was my favourite tune and as I played basketball, I had that wish to be a little bit taller.

How long have you been a DJ for?

I have been Deejaying for the last sixteen years having gone through Homeboyz DJ academy school for two years

Who/what inspired you to be a DJ?

I was inspired by DJ Pinye and DJ Sally B

What style of music do you play?

I’m an all-rounder DJ however, I have an expertise in old school, R&B and soul

Who is your all-time favourite musician and what is your all-time favourite song?

Usher Raymond leads the list

Describe your feelings when you are performing at a gig.

I’m usually on cloud nine, fully in tune with the music and the crowd

What advice would you give to an upcoming DJ?

Be yourself and understand their music

How do you handle multiple requests?

To avoid client disappointments, I do my best to balance the requests

How do you get the crowd pumped?

By observing the crowd and understanding my playlist for the night/theme

Do you have a morning routine to set you for the day?

Yes I do… first I pray, drink some warm lemon water, then hit the road to the field for a 5km run followed by a workout, the whole exercise takes 1 hour from 6am to 7am.

What’s your go-to way of winding down after a long day?

I play basketball

What do you like the most about being a DJ?

I love Deejaying and the music

What do you dislike the most about being a DJ?

The cliché that people have that Deejays are not professionals/it’s not a profession

What is the one word that you want people to associate you with?

Skillz

How has the pandemic affected you?

There was complete lack of work due to the lock down and Covid restrictions

How do you contribute to the community?

I do CSR – we visit different children’s home and the elderly 3 times a year

If you were not a DJ, what would you be doing?

I would be in the army

How can people contact you?

My email is kengeles100@gmail.com

Tel: 0724883234

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