Rising through the ranks, DJ Kats Baddest, real name Umar Katende, is building a strong foundation for a promising deejaying career, which he says has already offered challenges, but he is ready to use consistency and versatility to keep up.
In an interview, the 24-year-old who was born in the Buziga slums and raised in Ntinda opens up about his deejaying journey and a few lessons learnt so far.
Quick Info:
- Real Name: Umar Katende
- Brand Name: DJ Kats Baddest
- Date Of Birth: 5th May 2002
- Career: Deejay
- Years Active: 4 years of experience, 2 years professionally
What inspired you to start mixing, and what was the first piece of equipment that got you hooked on deejaying?
My love for music and the way it brings people together through sound, and I wanted to turn that passion into something bigger and create my own identity through music. My first piece was a 2012 MacBook laptop.
How would you describe your signature sound and the way you approach building a set for different crowds?
I would describe my signature sound as versatile and energetic. I enjoy blending different genres while maintaining a distinctive sound that people can identify with.
Approaching a crowd, I first read the crowd, their energy, mood, and what they’re responding to. From there, I build the vibe gradually.
Who are the artists or fellow DJs that have had the biggest influence on your style and career trajectory?
I was inspired by a Caribbean deejay, DJ Puff. Locally, DJ Wizzy Party Starter, DJ Trizzy Vybz, and DJ Magic Touch have had and continue to have a strong influence on me.
What has been the most defining moment or most memorable gig in your career so far?
I’m still building my career, so I wouldn’t say I’ve had a defining gig yet. However, some of my most memorable moments have been the times I’ve had the opportunity to play for a crowd and really connect with people through music.
How do you stay ahead of the curve when it comes to discovering new music and trending tracks in the Ugandan scene?
I constantly listen to music, research, and keep my finger on the pulse of the Ugandan music scene. I follow emerging artists, producers, DJs, and music platforms, and I pay attention to what people are responding to both online and on the dance floor.
What goes through your mind when you’re reading a crowd and deciding how to shift the energy of the room?
I don’t believe in forcing a set. I let the crowd guide me while still maintaining my own musical identity. Sometimes the right transition or unexpected track can completely change the atmosphere.
My goal is to create a natural journey where the energy keeps evolving, and the audience stays connected from beginning to end.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the industry, and how have they shaped your work ethic?
Not being paid sometimes, technical issues, and being overlooked by other DJs.
Where do you see your brand and your sound heading in the next years?
My main focus over the next 2 years is to keep improving, stay consistent, build my audience, and make sure every opportunity helps move the brand forward.
I see my brand becoming much more established and recognizable, not just in Kampala but across Uganda and eventually beyond.
What advice would you give to aspiring Ugandan DJs who are just starting to find their footing in the industry?
To be patient, stay consistent, and never be afraid to learn. The industry takes time, so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. Focus on developing your own sound and understanding what makes you different.
The END
The post UNVEILING: DJ Kats Baddest Speaks Against Comparisons, Urges Consistency And Global Appeal appeared first on MBU.
