For the last couple of years, some top names emerged into deejaying in Rwanda and went on to rise to the top of the game. But the tables have turned this year, and new faces are breaking into the profession which is among the best paying in the music industry in Rwanda and the world at large.
At the forefront of this revolution is Cad, an upcoming disc jockey, who is using his skills to take over decks of Kigali and beyond.
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At 24 years, Cad, real name Armel Dylan Cyubahiro— is steadily carving out his spot as one of Kigali’s most versatile and hyping DJs.
Splitting his time between his role at Cadillac and his growing presence in the city’s entertainment scene, his journey is powered by ambition, mentorship, and a deep love for music.
DJ Cad’s story started in high school when the music world was buzzing about Virtual DJ — a software that suddenly made mixing accessible to anyone with a computer.
"While many treated it like a passing trend, I saw it as an entry point. Without expensive equipment, but with plenty of curiosity, I spent hours experimenting, refining blends, and slowly building a sound that is uniquely mine,” Cad told The New Times in an exclusive interview.
His growth was not a solo mission. Along the way, he found guidance from some of Rwanda’s respected DJs including the likes of DJ Khizzbeats, DJ Aristo (now based in Canada), DJ Kim, DJ Jullz, and several other local talents.
"They didn’t just teach me tricks on the decks; they taught me the discipline, patience, and professionalism needed to stand out in a competitive industry," he said.
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From those early days to now, DJ Cad has worked his way onto stages at some of the city’s most respected venues — including Atelier du Vin, Cadillac, Riders, and Chillax — each time delivering sets that keep reveres on dance floors.
For him, Djing goes beyond simply playing songs but about building an atmosphere, knowing exactly when to keep the energy simmering and when to change the vibe of the crowd.
His love for music also led him beyond the nightlife scene. At Radio Royal FM, DJ Cad reached a wider audience, using both his music and voice to connect with listeners.
"That experience deepened my understanding of what moves people not just in a club, but anywhere," he noted.
One of his most creative ventures so far is Pre-Game at the Balcony, a high-energy pre-party concept that takes over the balcony of Kana Cocktails located at KABC.
According to Cad, it’s not just an event — it’s a ritual for many partygoers with carefully curated playlists that blend different styles, from Afro house, Dancehall to Amapiano and R&B among many others.
Still at the start of his career, DJ Cad is proof that passion, mentorship, and hard work can turn a high school hobby into a rising brand and it’s just the beginning.