Past Experiences Perfected My Craft – DJ Venum

Former rap artist and in-demand Disc Jockey, Aletor Jordan Obehi known by the stage name DJ Venum, has built a strong profile for himself in the music industry on account of his diversity, unique style and creativity. In a chat with our reporter he reveals the secrets of his success, harping on hardwork and creativity as the bedrock of his success.

The Esan, Edo State-born entertainer and an alumnus of Yaba College of Technology asserts that he is the product of all his past experiences, having gone through high and low moments of his career.

“The biggest challenge is being creative – either you are, or you’re not. If you’re not, then you need to copy, mimic or rework what others have created and try to pass it off as your own. If you are, then you fight to clear a new ground and you learn to stick to your guns until others catch up with you and appreciate something new,” he began.

“I could remember when I just started I would play for my friends free of charge, and yet they wouldn’t appreciate the fact that I didn’t charge them. And it made me feel bad and I just really couldn’t take it off my mind, but today the past experiences made me a better DJ than I am today. I have gone through a lot and each experience has contributed to who I am by strengthening me,” he added.

DJ Venum’s career took flight through Mainland Block Party By Alhaji Popping & Bizzle. He has played at several concerts and festivals. He regularly plays at Mainland Block Party, Nigeria’s biggest youth event. He also has a residency at Bogobori, the popular Bogobiri House and Roma Lagos.

DJ Venum said he grew up in an environment where music was the foundation. His father is a creative artist cum instrumentalist who had a huge influence on his musical orientation.

“My father is a creative artist and a professional musician. That gives me more inspiration on how to become a better person.

The Disc Jockey was born in Eti-Osa, Lagos but originally from Esan, Edo State. He went to Ireti Grammar School, Ikoyi, Lagos and later gained admission to Yaba College of Technology.

“Creativity runs in my family and I am the first born of my parents,” he said.