Devon Kosoko, aka DJ DVN, is a music producer with a DJ career that began about 13 years ago. His multi-genre experience means he’s a deft multi-tasker, having produced many tunes, some of which have made it to the iTunes hip hop chart in the UK. When he’s not travelling with the music, you’ll find this spinmaster behind the decks at White Dubai. Soundbites caught up with him recently to talk about how his Dubai gig’s going so far.
Hello DJ DVN. What tunes are we feeling this season?
This season is all about the upbeat, feel-good tunes that I definitely will and do incorporate within all my mixes at White Dubai’s URBN Saturdays and at Eight Abu Dhabi’s Clique on Wednesdays.
Are there any tracks you can’t go through a night without playing?
Right now, Coco by O.T. Genasis.
So tell us, how did you end up in Dubai?
What I love about Dubai is its diversity. When I am behind the decks, it’s a challenge for me to create mixes since the crowd is so diverse and cosmopolitan with varied tastes in music. I was lucky enough to join White Dubai’s team to experience nightlife in Dubai.
How different is the clubbing scene in the UAE compared to, say, the UK?
The UAE clubbing scene is so different in the sense of the crowd that comes from all over the world. I can play an array of music that would appeal to many people as opposed to sticking to a specific genre.
When it comes to music, what makes a night out a great one?
Honestly, music is versatile. That’s the beauty of it. Upbeat music with the great company makes a great night out.
What’s your take on the hip hop and R&B coming out these days? From your perspective, how has it evolved?
It has definitely evolved. Previously, hip hop and R&B were geared more towards the lyrics that were inspirational and memorable. Nowadays, hip hop and R&B have been focusing more on the beat and rhythms rather than the lyrics.
What else is keeping you busy besides your gig at White Dubai?
I have been focusing on making sure my mixes reach a wider audience via online. I am working on branding myself as DVN as well.
What do you do during your down time?
In my downtime, I like to follow a healthy lifestyle of eating wholesome food and exercising on a regular basis.
What’s next for you?
What’s next for me is making sure my name becomes recognised via music production and collaborations with other well-known artists.
Don’t miss it
URBN Saturdays, a night totally dedicated to the best of hip hop and R&B music, takes place every Saturday at White Dubai, Meydan. Ladies enjoy complimentary drinks all night from the Pink Cocktail menu at the bar. For reservations, call 050-4430933 or email reservations@whitedubai.com. For more on DJ DVN, go to facebook.com/devonkosoko.
