Introverted IT Grad Becomes Kampala's Buzzing DJ

Aaron Elwanu, a 25-year-old IT graduand from Makerere University, is carving out a unique niche in Kampala by merging his passion for music with a burgeoning DJ career. Known professionally as Dread Lazer, he embodies a striking contrast between his introverted nature and his electrifying stage presence.

Elwanu, who describes himself as someone who "really likes to be indoors," transforms behind the DJ decks into an energetic performer. His stage name, Dread Lazer, reflects this duality: "Dread" honors his reggae influences, while "Lazer" signifies the sharp, focused, and energetic experience he aims to deliver. His goal is to help audiences "let your worries disappear and just relax," keeping them "completely in the moment" through his music.

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I'm an introvert. I really like to be indoors.

His journey into DJing began in 2012 at a local gaming station, where he experimented with DJ software. Growing up near the Uganda-Kenya border exposed him to diverse musical tastes, with particular inspiration drawn from mixmasters associated with Supremacy Sounds. A pivotal moment came in 2022 when he chose a paid DJ gig at a school prom over his own, a decision that opened doors to more professional opportunities.

Despite setbacks like the closure of venues and the slowdown of entertainment activities post-lockdown, Elwanu adapted. He invested in DJ equipment and leveraged TikTok to share mixes, which eventually led to an audition and a full-time national radio DJ and influencer role at NRG Radio. This success required careful management of his university studies alongside his increasingly visible entertainment career, a path that initially concerned his parents but ultimately gained their support.

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The party is a place to let your worries disappear and just relax. Even though the music for that mood changes every time, my goal is to keep you completely in the moment.