DJ WilSAF, born Wilmot Faulkner, is renowned for his Hip Hop and RnB DJ, presenting and entrepreneurial skills. Due to the passion he has for all kinds of music, WilSAF has DJed for an array of functions and events. And now, he’s currently setting his sights even higher with the creation of his own music company with the intention of music profiling.
Faulkner sat down to answer several questions about his business and the way it’s changing the face of the music industry.
When did you first realize you had a passion for music?
When I was nine years old, I was involved in the Wesley Methodist Church choir. I spent most of my youth performing in church, but I didn’t foresee myself singing the traditional hymns. Instead, I was focused on becoming a radio presenter and DJ.
When did you become active in the music industry? What was it like in those early years?
It was 1996 when the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation hired me as an announcer and DJ. I worked here for seven years, learning as much as I could and building confidence in myself. I would make news and public notice announcements and later had the chance to host live talk shows and conduct interviews.
I left there to work at another well-known station – SKYY Radio 106.6FM – where I worked for about five years as a DJ/Presenter and Production Assistant. I would put together live talk shows, promote local musicians and conduct interviews. I also helped editors with their on-air advertisements and daily programs.
Ironically enough, at the time, my stage name was just DJ Wil, but the name was very popular, and I wanted people to know who I was. I decided a few years back to rebrand myself, becoming DJ WilSAF.
Do you think the things you do is different from other DJs and musical entrepreneurs?
It’s my hope to bring something positive to the community, helping out wherever I can. In my mind, being successful means being given an opportunity to help out when you can. During Sierra Leone’s civil war, I helped with charity relief and helped with the setup of the Missing Person’s Helpline. The goal was to help people reunite with missing loved ones – something that often happens during wars.
What do you feel is your satisfying achievements in the music and DJing world?
In my DJing career, I’ve come up with an array of popular jingles and voiceovers. And, it’s all led up to my worldwide success as a DJ. The early years have enabled me to play in clubs all around the world today, including many European countries and London. Some esteemed clubs I’ve been asked to perform in include Play 2, Play Room and Home House London.
What are some of the things you do for fun?
I’m a pretty normal guy – you can walk up to me, and I’ll start talking to you. I dedicate a lot of my time to my family and friends, spending what free time have with them. I’ll even go traveling the world with them, checking out what the world has to offer (landmarks and tourist attractions).
When I’m not working, I like watching sports – football, basketball and tennis – and just relaxing. It’s not uncommon to see me in front of the television when Arsenal is competing.
I’m also partial to web consulting, which is why I spend several days of every week on my Internet radio website – FusioSoundRadio.com – where I’m hosting live shows on both Monday and Friday nights. I’m also the founder and CEO of an information technology, media and entertainment company called SELAKIFAU Limited, which trades as 5iveGem Inc.
What has been your favorite part of being a DJ and music entrepreneur?
I’m the kind of person who loves music of any genre, and I get a sense of privilege each time I take part in new things. My talents have allowed me to travel the world, performing in many public and private venues as well as exotic locations. People have even hired me to do wedding ceremonies and graduation events.
What advice would you give the rising musical talent?
If you want to be the best, you must enjoy and love everything you do about it. For myself, I have an extensive collection of music from the 50s to the 80s that also includes RnB, Now Dance and other genres. I love music and the industry. If you’re all about music – if it’s all you breathe morning, noon and night, then nothing can stop you from achieving your goals.
You can learn more about Wilmot Faulkner (DJ WilSAF) at www.DJWilSAF.com
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