WHILE many see Disc Jockeys (DJs) as simply the ones spinning records at clubs or hyping crowds on the airwaves, DJ Ashmen believes their influence goes far beyond the dancefloor.
To him, DJs are the heartbeat of the music industry, the bridge between artistes and audiences, and often, the unseen force behind an artiste’s rise to fame.
In an interview with the Daily Graphic on Tuesday, November 4, DJ Ashmen expressed disappointment that some industry players continued to underestimate the importance of DJs in today’s digital-driven music scene.
“DJs have the power to make or break an artiste’s career,” he said firmly. “We breathe life into music, interpreting and reinterpreting tracks to create unique experiences for audiences. We don’t just play songs, we create atmosphere, energy and memories.”
DJ Ashmen acknowledged that while streaming platforms and social media, especially TikTok, had made it easier for musicians to reach global audiences, the feeling of a live DJ session was unmatched.
“When I play a song, people walk up to me asking for the title because they just heard it for the first time and loved it. They’ll later look up the artiste online and that’s how we quietly help grow artistes’ fanbases,” he explained.
For Ashmen, DJs are not just entertainers; they are tastemakers and trendsetters, shaping sounds, setting trends, and fostering community through music.
Recognition Long Overdue
With nearly two decades in the industry, DJ Ashmen, real name Michael Mensah Ashley, has built a reputation as one of Ghana’s most influential promoters of homegrown sounds from Highlife and Hiplife to Afrobeat and Burger Highlife.
His popular Ghana’s Independence Mixtape is an annual project that celebrates authentic Ghanaian music, earning him respect across the continent and beyond. His artistry has taken him to major stages, from Rock City Nightclub, Africa’s largest nightclub, to high-profile events such as the Queen’s Birthday Celebration at the British High Commission alongside artistes such as Reggie N Bollie..
Despite this impressive résumé, Ashmen admits it’s been frustrating to be consistently overlooked by local award schemes.
“Awards don’t define my worth, but they’re tokens of recognition,” he noted. “It’s nice to know people appreciate what you’re doing. I may not have many trophies, but my work speaks for itself, and that’s what truly matters.”
His proudest moment came in 2016 when he was the only African nominated at the World Mixtape Awards, a milestone that validated his efforts and cemented his global standing.
“That nomination told me that what I’m doing has crossed borders. It reminded me that I’m seen even if not always locally celebrated,” he stated.
Marking 20 Years Behind the Turntables
As DJ Ashmen celebrates 20 years in the game, he’s hoping to cap the milestone with a win at this year’s Ghana DJ Awards, where his Ghana Independence Mixtape is up for Mixtape of the Year.
He’s in stiff competition with the likes of DJ Spincho’s Trap & Vibes Mixtape, DJ Loft & Kojo Manuel’s Cups & Bass (Aboten), and DJ Cyril & Darren Flex’s Snatch & Grind.
“I’m honoured to be nominated,” he said. “It’s been 20 years of hard work, consistency, and love for what I do. Whether I win or not, this nomination feels like a beautiful way to celebrate the journey.”
Humble beginnings and a Deep Love for Music
DJ Ashmen’s passion for music started early. He recalls how visiting relatives from Nigeria would bring along the latest hits, shaping his ear for diverse sounds.
“My mum always said I couldn’t sleep without music playing,” he laughed. “So, I guess you could say music has been part of me since birth.”
He attended Alajo 1/2 School and later studied electronics at the Accra Technical Training Centre, but his true calling lay elsewhere. Determined to sharpen his skills, he took professional DJ courses online to master the craft.
Interestingly, he once dabbled in dancing but quickly realised it wasn’t his strength.
“I tried dancing,” he chuckled, “but it didn’t work out too well. I’m more of an electronics and music person. I saw my calling as a DJ and responded to it,” he said.
Championing the Craft
Through his work, DJ Ashmen has proven that DJs are not just background figures but vital creative forces shaping the direction of modern music. He believes that if the industry is to grow, DJs must be recognised not only as entertainers but as collaborators, curators, and cultural ambassadors.
“The music may come from the studio,” he said, adding, “But it truly comes alive when a DJ spins it.”
With two decades of experience, a legacy of supporting Ghanaian music, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of sound, DJ Ashmen stands as a reminder that behind every great song that moves a crowd, there’s a DJ making it unforgettable.
