In the DJ world, women are fairly scarce. This is certainly reflected in spaces around Kigali where we often see men performing sets and pulling enormous crowds in comparison to their female counterparts. However, to overlook the women carving their space in Kigali’s DJ space would be a grave misstep. This piece presents 3 female artists dominating the scene with various styles of music; but with a shared character trait: undeniable charisma.  DJs Cheryl aka Binghi, Linda aka Lyynduh and Makeda, have the ability to engage audiences with their sensational taste in music ranging from continental sounds to global bangers. They have a good ear and pair that with great timing to give an experience worth coming back for. So much so, that one of the most notable festivals in the region - Nyege Nyege has featured Binghi on this years lineup. In this conversation, these 3 powerhouses unpack the approach to their artistry, their thoughts on Kigali’s DJ landscape and what the future holds.

When did you start DJ’ing and what or who were your influences?

Makeda: I started DJ’ing when I first moved to Rwanda, I didn’t have DJ influences back then, I just  wanted to hear my favourite songs and show my new friends how we party in Jamaica.

Binghi: I started working as a DJ (playing for an audience apart from my friends) when Rwanda re-opened after COVID. My influences were and still are the same to be honest, but I was for sure pulled in by the Nyege Nyege crew, like Kampire, Catu Diosis, Don Zilla, PQ, to name just a few. I think I am more influenced by producers/DJ’s, absolute favourites like Nicola Cruz, Mina, Gaffaci, Dengue Dengue Dengue, it’s a lot!

Lyynduh: I officially started to DJ in 2018, but as a young child I would always play with my cousin's DJ equipment. My influences are DJs like Kampire from Uganda (she inspired me to make a step into doing it) and my Mentor Gilo (the guy who gave me my first moments on stage).

What genre or style of music do you fall under as a DJ?

Binghi: I’d say experimental and dance.

Lyynduh: I would say I am attracted to AfroTech, Drum & Bass, Dancehall, and everything that catches my ears.

Why did you want to work as a DJ?

Makeda: I started out just having fun and DJ’ing my own parties, then people started asking me to DJ theirs, so it was organic.

Binghi: I want to share the music that I love, for every different reasons; I want to encourage feeling yourself, inside and out. But also, there is music that is played all the time and everywhere, and I just wonder if people know there is something different and fun that exists; and that if you can tap into that world, you could tap into yourself further and who knows what and where it could bring you? I want to experience sounds and mix them and play around; and as I’m discovering what these beats and sounds are making me feel and where they are taking me, I’m not alone, I’m on this journey with the people listening. Playing also allows me to dare myself, cause I have no idea if people are going to like what I’m going to play, some people will. What I know is that if the music is good and I’m feeling it, the rest is a trust thing.

Lyynduh: I have always loved music and dancing, since I was a child. I embarked on the DJ’ing journey to deepen my connection with music. It was the best feeling ever!

What has been your experience working as a female DJ in the scene?

Makeda: I’m lucky to have started out in Kigali, people had their opinions but I wasn’t hindered or held back in any significant way. I was encouraged by fellow DJ’s and supported for the most part.

Binghi: I just know I’ve always wanted to DJ because I thought it was cool, before all these other layers mentioned above. This female DJ thing man, I think in general as a woman, there are shitty things we go through, and that doesn’t exclude this art/creative industry. I have loved being around women DJ’s though. It always feels good to be around people that get you and your experience in the world and in your career.

Lyynduh: I would say it has been a learning process. As a male-dominated profession, I have had to navigate through the scenes consciously and carefully. Thankfully, nowadays there are more emerging female DJ’s and people are less judgmental towards it.

How do you typically curate your playlists?

Makeda: I start out with the songs that give me the vibe of the theme I’m going for, automatically. Usually at least 2 or 3 songs will come off the top. Then I add some of my favourite songs to play, because that’s just fun. Then. if there aren’t any already, I’ll make sure to add in some crowd favourites. I try to aim for what I would want to hear all night.

Binghi: Being visual, it always depends on the location and the time. I like to say I’m a 3 hour DJ, I typically start from a 80 BPM, middle part gets to 120, then the last hour or 45 minutes we’re 145 and mingle, haha. I always project myself, like what energy do I want people to have, to channel, how do I want people to feel during my set and how do I want their night to end. What are the intentions for me and everybody that night. 

What skills do you think DJs need to be successful?

Makeda: I think you need to be able to read the room. See how people are reacting to what you’re playing and switch it up if need be. You also need to have a thick skin and be able to take an L. Sometimes you’re going to have an off day, not everyone is going to feel your style, it is what it is. Got to keep it moving.

Binghi: Damn, fun? Have fun and we’ll have fun with you and take us to other dimensions? Make me feel my gut type shit. I think music producing and DJ’ing is my fav combo.

Lyynduh: I think the first thing is to understand what 'being successful' means to you as a DJ. In my context, I feel successful when I am fulfilled with what I am doing and to me, that is being able to make people dance and feel the music at a deeper level. I mainly do that through continuous practice and reflecting my energy to the people that I am performing for.

How do you stay up to date with the latest music trends? 

Makeda: I use Spotify and I follow accounts on social media that talk about music. I also try not to get too caught up in the trends if I’m not feeling it.

Binghi: hahaha i don’t! I’m trying to catch up babes. But also, Instagram?

Lyynduh: I listen to music every day of my life. I do like to discover new artists/music but that doesn't necessarily mean that I will play it on my set. I play a lot of old music and experimental productions. I enjoy mostly discovering new producers. I use different platforms to learn and explore.

What techniques do you use to engage listeners? 

Makeda: It depends on the crowd and the setting. If it’s a club, I’ll go back to back with hits. If it’s more laid back, I’ll play songs I think they’d like to be introduced to.

Lyynduh: I wouldn't say that I have a specific technique, I just show up and vibe with those that are vibing with me. Within my journey, I have realised that music is not something you force on people. You have to give people the freedom to choose what's good for their ears and soul. It is fulfilling when people are genuinely feeling the music.

Can you describe your approach to art and being an artist?

Binghi: I’d say I’m curious and I always want to learn new stuff. Mostly because I want to stay interested. I easily get bored, so I focus on one thing for a given period of time, but eventually I end up just not wanting to anymore - it starts feeling like a chore or something, so that’s when I get into something different. But along the same lines with the first thing, but still, for some time. It helps me disconnect and get back to things with passion, so I switch.

Lyynduh: I take my time. I understand rushing things will not necessarily mean that I will be perfect at what I do. I accept mistakes and learn from them.

What would you say is the most rewarding part of being a DJ?

Makeda: I love seeing people enjoying themselves, sometimes even losing themselves. I love music and sharing that is such a beautiful reward.

Binghi: When I can feel we are vibing with the people and our spirits are vibing - everybody feels good to be there.

Lyynduh: Seeing people full of energy and grooving to the music.

What are some of the main challenges you face and how have they changed over time?

Makeda: No comment.

Binghi: Self doubt is my biggest challenge, I just try to forget about this anxiety and just do it! Then i’ll see what I’’d have lost, but really so far it’s all been lessons and turned out to be good. Biggest thing has also been dealing with my patience. I’m learning how to tame that part of myself by just praying and using introspection, and you know, living with my wonderful sisters who are also a very big support system.

Lyynduh: I am that person who juggles a lot of things at the same time. Not being able to have enough time sometimes can get in the way of my creativity. But I believe in - better late than never.

Is there anything you would change about the DJ landscape in Kigali?

Binghi: Yeah, more of like a message - ask for what you deserve/want, and go for what is for you.

Lyynduh: I would say that people should open up to different styles of music. Also, stop making requests at the DJ booth, unless it’s an open DJ set that allows that to happen.

Where do you see yourself taking this career?

Makeda: I never planned to get into this, so I have no idea where it will go. I’m following it’s lead for as long as it feels good.

Binghi: Everywhere haha. Everywhere people feel free, safe, loved and welcome.

Lyynduh: I am taking it one step at a time. I can't tell what tomorrow holds, but what I know is that I enjoy every opportunity I get on stage.

How do you feel when you’re DJ’ing?

Makeda: It changes, sometimes I feel elated, like I can go for hours and hours and I’m just having so much fun.  And sometimes I’m not feeling it all the way and I’m trying to find my groove. It’s an ebb and flow; but I always find myself going back.

Binghi: At first I feel nervous, but I’m an anxious person so I do what I do to deal with that. Then, I get to a place where I’m really having a good time! I love my music and i love sharing it.

Lyynduh: I feel INCREDIBLE. Every time I am on set, it feels like the first time ever. I usually have butterflies in my stomach before I go on stage.