Table Series: DJ Fiston
DJ Fiston introduced a Djembe drum player into his set...
© Photos by Philippe Nyriimihigo - 2023
From a very young age, Fiston had a deep passion for music, and there was no doubting that fact. Back in the days, it was common for kids in most families to entertain guests by dancing, singing, or even taking on DJ responsibilities. DJ Fiston did it all. He also fondly recalls a barbershop near his house that played Congolese music all day long, and as we all know, when that Congolese sound hits you, there's no turning back – you'll be dancing, whether you intend to or not.
But back to Fiston, he remembers his older brother in the early 2000s immersed in a diverse range of music genres. In high school, he discovered the joy of making people dance, and that's when his DJ journey truly began. In fact, his first PAID gig as a DJ happened while he was still in high school, at a house party.
Naturally, like many families at the time, pursuing a career in music wasn't something most parents encouraged. The typical parental career aspirations were in science, engineering, law, or medicine. His father even went so far as to ask him to quit music and offered to compensate him directly for any DJ gigs that came his way. Ironically, Fiston's father had a hit song as a musician back in the '90s here in Rwanda. It was a paradox often witnessed in families, where parents discouraged their children from pursuing a path they themselves had once taken (wether by choice or situational). However, Fiston persevered, staying true to his passion for DJing along his journey.
© Photos by Philippe Nyriimihigo - 2023
Many of us, myself included, can recall Fiston's big break at Moshion's Imwanda 2021 collection launch at Atelier. As he stood tall behind the decks, DJ Fiston kicked off his Amapiano set, getting everyone in the room grooving.
During brainstorming sessions with Cedric, a source of inspiration for DJ Fiston's career, the idea of incorporating drumming into his DJ sets emerged. It was a move that would not only enhance his performances but also tap into a sound that resonated naturally with everyone – the heartbeat of the drum.
DJ Fiston introduced a Djembe drum player into his set that night at Atelier, and this decision would change the trajectory of his career, propelling him to new heights that he continues to enjoy today.
© Photos by Philippe Nyriimihigo - 2023
If you ever spot DJ Fiston's name on a flyer, I can guarantee you won't want to miss it. Trust me!