In an exclusive chat with Treasures Unveiler Magazine, Commissioner DJ Wysei, a prominent figure in the world of disc jockey and music, bared her mind on the art which has brought her global recognition. Hailing from Nigeria, Commissioner DJ Wysei has a remarkable journey that is deeply intertwined with a passion for music. With an unwavering dedication to delivering the finest beats, she has become a force to reckon with in the industry.
May we meet you ma’am?
I’m Commissioner DJ Wysei, and I’ve had an incredible journey into the world of being a disc jockey. My story starts with a deep love for music that ignited when I was quite young, growing up in Nigeria. The rhythmic beats and melodies of various musical genres, from Afrobeat to hip-hop, captured my heart and became the driving force behind my passion.
Can you tell us about your journey into disc jockey? What initially sparked your interest in music and becoming a DJ?
As a teenager, I started experimenting with mixing tracks and turntables, and that’s when I knew disc jockey was my calling. The ability to curate and blend different musical styles, creating a unique experience for listeners, fascinated me. I began playing at local events, taking small steps towards building my skills and reputation in the industry.
Over the years, I had the privilege of expanding my reach as a radio personality, where I could share my love for music with a broader audience. For me, music isn’t just a career; it’s a way of life. It’s about connecting with people through the universal language of sound, and that’s what keeps me motivated on this incredible journey as a DJ.
Who are your musical influences, and how have they shaped your style as a DJ?
My journey has been shaped by a diverse set of musical influences. Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat revolutionized African music had left a profound impact on my style. DJ Jimmy Jatt, a Nigerian DJ legend, showed me the importance of connecting with the audience and reading the crowd. Beyoncé’s artistry and dedication to perfection motivate me to deliver unforgettable experiences, while Diplo’s genre-blending versatility encourages me to explore and experiment.
I also draw inspiration from DJ Switch of Nigeria, whose skills as a DJ and her passion for using music to advocate for social change have shown me the transformative power of music beyond entertainment.
Are you a Christian? Our magazine is focusing on using art such as music to connect and transform the lives of the youth, how has your activity impacted on the youth in your local church?
To begin with, I got my stage name from a Reverend Father from the Catholic school I attended. He called me “wise” due to the unusual wisdom I demonstrated at my age then. So, when I began my profession, I had to fine-tune “wise” and that’s how I finally arrived at the name I’m known for presently, professionally. Now back to the question, my Christian faith, deeply rooted in my heart, holds a special place in my music. It grounds me spiritually and adds depth and soul to my DJ sets. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is using music to connect with and transform the lives of the youth, not only in my local church but also in the broader community. I aim to be a positive role model, showing them the importance of pursuing their passions while maintaining strong moral values.
Do you think music can influence people’s behaviour? Would you say people especially the youth should embrace any kind of music as long as it sounds okay? As a Christian, wouldn’t it be just fine to consider the lyrics of a song?
I recognise that music can influence behaviour, and I believe it’s essential for young people to be discerning about the music they consume. While embracing a variety of music is perfectly fine, considering the lyrics and themes of songs aligns with my values and promotes positive behavior.
What challenges have you faced as a female DJ in a predominantly male-dominated industry, and how have you overcome them?
As a female DJ in a male-dominated industry, I’ve faced stereotypes, limited opportunities, and pressure to conform. However, I’ve overcome these challenges through determination, seeking out opportunities, and advocating for gender diversity in the industry.
How do you stay creative and keep your DJ sets fresh and unique?
Staying creative and keeping my DJ sets fresh and unique are crucial to providing an engaging experience for my audience. I achieve this through diverse music exploration, live drumming performances, mashups, crowd interaction, and theme sets. Continuous learning and feedback are also vital for growth and innovation.
Could you share some insights into your music selection process for a DJ set? How do you read and engage with your audience?
My music selection process for DJ sets involves understanding the audience, setting objectives, and creating a musical journey that resonates with the moment. Reading the crowd during performances allows me to make real-time adjustments to track selection, ensuring an immersive experience. Through my music and DJ sets, I aim to convey a wide range of emotions and messages, from joy and celebration to unity, inspiration, love, and reflection. My music also serves as a platform for cultural appreciation, positive energy, and a message of faith.
In the digital age, how important do you think social media and online presence are for DJs? How do you use these platforms to connect with your fans?
In today’s digital age, my identity as Commissioner DJ Wysei revolves around the crucial role of maintaining a robust online presence and effectively using social media platforms. These digital tools are essential for connecting with fans, promoting music, and expanding my global audience.
In attaining a global reach, I harness the power of social media to connect with music enthusiasts worldwide, spanning diverse backgrounds and geographic locations.
And by utilizing platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, I keep fans well-informed with regular posts and stories, promoting upcoming gigs and sharing important updates.
More importantly, I engage with fans through live DJ sets on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Instagram Live, creating real-time connections, live chat interactions, and song requests.
In essence, social media offers a space to share exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into my DJ life, offering glimpses of music production processes and sneak peeks of upcoming projects, nurturing a closer bond with my dedicated supporters.
I encourage fans to explore new tracks and artists beyond my sets through curated music recommendations and playlists on platforms like Spotify and SoundCloud.
How do you see the role of technology, such as software and hardware, evolving in DJing, and how has it affected your approach to mixing and producing music?
The role of technology in DJ has evolved significantly, with digital media, software, controllers, and live streaming platforms enhancing our capabilities. I’ve embraced these technological advancements to expand my creative toolkit while preserving the core skills that define the art of DJ.
What message or emotions do you hope to convey through your music and DJ sets?
My journey as Commissioner DJ Wysei is a testament to my unwavering passion for music and my dedication to using it as a powerful means of connection, transformation, and inspiration. Whether through the beats I curate or the messages I convey, I hope to leave a lasting impact on the lives of my audience and the youth, fostering unity, positivity, and inspiration through the universal language of music.
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