Interview with DUMA

29/03/24

Who are you? What drives you in life? And what do you do day to day?

My name is Uma, 22 years old. I started DJing about two years ago, I think. But it is only recently that I have really gotten into it. I am still figuring it all out a bit, but that is okay.

And what do you do in daily life?

I graduated in audiovisual design, and right now I am studying Creative Media Management here in Leuven.

What made you want to start DJing?

I went to Booty Rave, a pretty small festival. There were mostly DJs there, not a lot of live bands. It was just such a good vibe being there with my friends, and I really felt this sense of solidarity. I thought to myself, I want to be able to do that too. I borrowed a mixer from a friend and took some workshops at MIJNLEUVEN.

Were you already going to a lot of parties before that? Or not really?

Not at that time, no. Now, yes, pretty often. But not necessarily in real clubs or anything, mostly just to enjoy the music.

What role does music play in your life?

I played drums for ten years, and I have always found music super interesting, in all genres. It is cliché, but I really listen to everything. And that is exactly what I love about it. That is also why I do not stick to just one genre when I am DJing. It is all within a certain vibe, but it is not just Deep House or anything. I really like having some variety in there.

And did you immediately start DJing?

Actually, I first played a lot of live music with friends, and at school too. But there were always pretty big gaps in between.

Is there a venue or a festival where you would love to play? Or any goals you have set for yourself?

I do not really have a big goal or anything. Mostly, I just want DJing to stay fun, no pressure, just making people happy.

Horst is a nice festival though. I think it is a super cool concept.

But it is not like I am super ambitious or working hard to get famous. It is more about sharing music for fun.

Is there a DJ you look up to, or would love to share the decks with?

That is a tough one. I actually do not watch a lot of DJ sets, so I do not think I can really answer that right now.

Are there any plans for 2025 as a DJ?

Right now, there is Stelplaats Radio. That DJ booth at Stelplaats is opening up for a week to different collectives, and I am part of the lineup too.

If you could pick three artists to have dinner with, who would they be?

It is not necessarily within the genres I play, but Loyle Carner, for example. I also think Tash Sultana is super cool. And maybe De Fikskes or something (laughs). Listening to them with my dad is really something from my childhood.

Alright, cool. If you could give some advice to beginner DJs, people who are doubting whether to start or who just started, what would you say?

I think just dare to play. We, and even the more experienced DJs, still make little mistakes during sets, and that is fine. It makes it nicer and cooler, more real, you know. Also, mainly play what you love yourself. Adjust a bit to your audience, but do not just jump on every hype.

Love it! Anything else you would like to share? What can we expect from your set?

Honestly, I am not super well prepared today. I just hope it is going to be fun. And if there are little mistakes, well, like I said, it happens. I am just going to follow the flow.