I am DJ Steve Junior, the international roots master

DJ Steve Junior. This month renowned roots reggae DJ Steve Junior will be celebrating 10 years since he joined the music industry. PHOTO | CAROLINE NJERI |

What you need to know:

  • At its core, reggae is positive music, and people need that. The rhythms in reggae are just so danceable.
  • I support positive music that promotes peace, love and unity. I also seek to make reggae music acceptable among all people of the world and for them to realise that during my tours and shows, my main aim is to bring them together as one.
  • November 2014 marks 10 years since I joined the music industry, so I have 10 good years disc jockeying and thanks to God I am now an International Roots Reggae DJ.

This month renowned roots reggae DJ Steve Junior will be celebrating 10 years since he joined the entertainment industry. He shares the ups and downs of his tours and what the future has in store for him.

You are recognised as the only Roots DJ in the country, how does that make you feel?

I feel humbled and truly blessed for an opportunity to play reggae music that my fans also appreciate, and which gets me sponsors who make sure that I reach more people in my country, continent and the world. To be honest, I had thought of many things while starting out as a roots reggae DJ, but God had bigger and better plans for me. I appreciate all that I am now.

What makes Reggae so timeless?

Reggae makes you feel good. It’s easy to dance to. It reminds us of celebration and warmth. Even the darkest reggae song often has a message about positive social change. At its core, reggae is positive music, and people need that. The rhythms in reggae are just so danceable. Coupled with positive lyrics, it has people asking for more. Reggae is here to stay.

Since last year you have visited different countries; would you say you have made it?

I would not say that. I cannot honour myself. The Bible, which is the positive vibe of God, cautions us to humble ourselves before Him and he will lift us up. The opportunities I get to play roots reggae music is the work of Jah, who lets me spread the positive vibes of reggae music worldwide and I hope to play reggae music in more places and give reggae music vibes the honour they deserve.

Reggae music is for everyone, and let me tell you, God does not reward you with gifts for yourself, but to share. I believe I am doing the work of God by spreading positivity in this world, which is tainted by too much negativity.

What do you aim to promote during your tour?

First, I support positive music that promotes peace, love and unity. I also seek to make reggae music acceptable among all people of the world and for them to realise that during my tours and shows, my main aim is to bring them together as one.

One of the greatest reggae artistes, Bob Marley, sang, "One love, one heart, let’s get together and feel alright".

What other genres of music do you listen to?

I would just say, honestly, I listen to reggae and positive music. Being in main stream reggae, I must keep up. Though I am also a fan of local and global music that promotes positivity, I wish to like to clarify that reggae music can never be monotonous; that is when you know your music.

What or who inspires you?

My Family, my fans and positive vibes artistes who their messages through reggae music allow me to come up with good playlists that I further inspires others. To be honest, most of my inspiration comes from within and without me and the grace of God gives me the ability to deliver.

How often do you stay at home to be with your family now that you’ve been globetrotting most of this year?

I agree it is a challenge to balance my family and my career but I am blessed. The US tour was one of my longest but I believe when I am out there playing reggae music my responsibility is to my family and then my fans. I keep tabs through phone calls and social media and get frequent updates.

When I am around I do spend with family a lot.

Would you say you are a good dad and husband?
Yes, my upbringing aught me a lot about responsibility. Being in this industry is a challenge and if you are off not focused you may end up compromising your values.

How old are you?
I am old enough. By the way, in November 2014 marks 10 years since I joined the music industry, so I have 10 good years disc jockeying and thanks to God I am now an International Roots Reggae DJ.

When do you plan to retire?

Only God Knows. My engines are just warmed up and I have actually not thought about retirement. I love my Job and what I do. I have so much I want to do in this industry, and I pray that God will see me fulfil the desires of my heart.

How was the reception in Tanzania?

Tanzania was awesome. I mean I could not believe how Tanzanians were really excited about having me and I should say, the moment I arrived in Tanzania, which was the beginning of my African Tour, I knew that I had to give back to these wonderful people. The show and the venue were nothing like what I expected, pure blessings.

Where next are you scheduled to perform?

I am warming up for a European tour, plus another to the US. Currently I am on my African tour, which will see me perform in countries like South Africa.

You can see more about my tour itinerary through my social media channels, radio and TV. Musically, I have much more to share with people around the world.

Who sponsors your tours?
I work with international and local promoters: they contact and give me their offers, depending on where they would like me to play. However, most of them agree that I am moving in the right direction with a positive vibe.

I would like to thank my crew, the Dohty Family, for supporting me.

Have you been to Jamaica, the home of reggae?

No, although I should point out that I do not have to play in Jamaica to be recognised as a reggae music DJ, Reggae is Africa.

Why not, what are you waiting for?

I am really not anticipating a Jamaican tour but I would not mind playing over there, if an opportunity arises.