Nigerian-born entertainer Sleek Dj MayZ has built his career in Nairobi’s nightlife scene.
The Nigerian-born entertainer traces his rise through Kiza Lounge and urges Kenyan DJs to prioritise professionalism, audience knowledge and consistency.
Nigerian-born DJ MayZ says foreign entertainers must earn their place in Nairobi’s nightlife scene, despite Kenya’s welcoming reputation. He rejects suggestions that his nationality explains the growth of his entertainment brand.
Known professionally as Sleek Dj MayZ, Okedairo J Mayowa moved to Nairobi after developing his craft in Nigeria and travelling across Africa. However, he says establishing himself required more than talent or a warm reception.
His account challenges perceptions among some Kenyan entertainers that foreigners enjoy easier bookings and access to influential industry players.
DJ MayZ on learning Nairobi’s nightlife
Mayowa credits Nigeria’s entertainment culture with shaping his musical foundations. He recalls growing up when performers such as Asake were still emerging on Lagos Island.
After arriving in Nairobi, he secured a holding DJ role at Kiza Lounge. He spent two years in that position before progressing to resident DJ.
Meanwhile, Kiza owner Ali Oumarou demanded strong performances and professionalism, Mayowa recalls. Those expectations helped shape his work ethic and understanding of Kenya’s entertainment business.
To connect with clubgoers, he also studied audience tastes, local music trends and Nairobi’s nightlife culture. That adjustment helped him develop the identity he calls the ‘Your Lagos Feeling DJ’.
However, his progress came with setbacks. Mayowa says he has worked nights in clubs without receiving payment, an experience he cites when challenging assumptions about foreign entertainers’ advantages.
Building opportunities through music and collaboration
Mayowa acknowledges that Kenyans welcome people from other countries. Still, he argues that hospitality does not remove the work needed to build a lasting career.
He urges Kenyan DJs to consider the demands of entering markets such as Nigeria, Egypt or Tanzania. In his view, they would need to understand unfamiliar audiences, invest time and demonstrate their value.
Rather than focus on perceived gatekeepers, he encourages upcoming DJs to develop practical ways of pursuing opportunities. He also emphasises professionalism, consistency and ambition over judging competitors by nationality.
Mayowa currently collaborates with other DJs on Lagos vibes, a cosmopolitan music night at Bla Bla. The event brings together local entertainers and DJs playing sounds from across the continent.
Its mix includes Kenyan and East African music, Afrobeat and Amapiano. For Mayowa, understanding different audiences remains central to the career he has built in Nairobi.
