We’ve all had a talent or two put on hold because we never seem to find the time to pursue them. Blandy Uwase, popularly known as Blandy Starr, decided it was time to revisit one of hers and is making her first move into deejaying. “Honestly, DJing has always been somewhere in me. I’ve always loved music, energy and creating moments for people. I spent a lot of time waiting for the ‘right time’ to start, but eventually I realized I didn’t need permission. I just needed to start. So this first performance is more than just a set for me. It’s me finally giving myself the chance to explore another side of my creativity,” she told The New Times. ALSO READ: Sheilah Gashumba to launch DJ career in Kigali Uwase, who is a podcaster and TV and radio personality, now has DJing on her list of creative pursuits. She said she wants her sets to give audiences a chance to switch off and enjoy themselves. “I’m here to disrupt, that’s for sure. I want people to forget everything for a moment and just enjoy themselves during my sets.” Her inaugural performance will be at the annual Fuego Fest on September 19 at Atelier du Vin. She will join DJ Miro, the festival’s headliner from Belgium, as well as DJ Tyga, Inkel and other acts for an event billed as a celebration marking the end of summer. ALSO READ: Makeba, Tyla and women shaping South Africa’s musical identity “I want this first set to feel like a journey, something that makes you move, sing, connect and have a good time,” Uwase said. Away from the decks, she is also continuing with her podcast, with more episodes and new topics and guests in the works. Fuego Fest has featured artistes from the dance and club music scene, including South Africa’s DJ Maphorisa and Tyler ICU. The festival is organised by Evolve Music Group. Tickets are selling for Rwf15,000, while VIP tickets cost Rwf25,000.
