OnlyOneMassive: The Disc Jockey Championing Sonic Dexterity

By Olaoluwa Meshack

Before the evolution of EDM, and the shift to sophisticated turntables, the grooves have been rocked by creative elatedness. These individuals are well-vested with the ingenuity to make people rub toes, wriggle waists, and live in worlds where joy is inevitable. However, the mid-20th century saw the rise of DJing in Nigeria, with radio presenters promoting genres as Afrobeats, juju, and highlife. International songs were quite on the meteoric rise, with their artists having dominant effects on the locales while African music was just a newbie, trying to gain ascendancy in the 70’s. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, hip-hop and reggae started the rave. Hence, DJs of these genres arose, and became an infectious part of the nightlife scene.

With the luminous rise of Afrobeats in the 2000s, and the technological advancement of the industry, digital DJing took its cause, which saw DJs Spinall and Xclusive, among others, getting international recognition. This shift allowed for greater creative control and manipulation of sound, opening up new avenues for musical expression. The social media and the innovative streaming platforms brought about not only ease of reaching the audience, but generation of revenues as a whole. Suddenly, DJs could connect with fans globally, building a following that transcended geographical boundaries. The DJs aren’t left obsolete; they put to use their tech-no-how and still keep the art of reliving moments in lounges, clubs, streets with music and their turntables. While embracing the digital age, they continue to curate experiences, blending old favorites with the latest hits, and creating an atmosphere that resonates with their audience. This fusion of traditional skills with modern technology ensures that the DJ remains a vital part of the music scene, both online and in physical spaces.

A decade, and a few years after the evolution of the social media in Nigeria, and the revitalization of the Afrobeats, DJs keep thumping hearts to beat and legs to beats through advanced turntables, and synchro systems. One of the vibrant DJs, among others, is Adetiloye Prius Ayodeji. While many would revert to the biblical quotes of Nath, saying, “Can anything come out of Nazareth?” Today, they would ask if anything could come out of his place, because of not downplay, but civility. OnlyOneMassive as fondly called by friends, and fans is an astute musical maestro, music producer, electrifying DJ, hails from Ijare, Ondo State, Nigeria. He stealthily became a music addict at a young age due to how he got influenced by the rich and eclectic sounds of the Afrobeats, which led his feet and hands into the art of DJing.

Ayodeji embarked on his DJing career in 2010 while a university student, and his talent quickly became apparent, garnering him awards such as Best DJ at the PIRA Awards (2014) and FUTA Awards (2015, 2016). His relocation to Lagos in 2017 was a turning point, establishing him as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s music scene. He also co-founded The Vibes DJ Academy, demonstrating his passion for education, which has since trained over 200 DJs across the globe. Ayodeji’s teaching philosophy encompasses not only technical proficiency but also creative expression and business acumen, equipping aspiring DJs to build sustainable and successful careers in the music industry.

His alter ego, OnlyOneMassive, is the embodiment of his love for Afro-electronic music, under which he performs at major festivals and produces tracks that seamlessly blend Afro rhythms with electronic sounds, captivating audiences worldwide and pushing the boundaries of the genre.

His international career has continued to flourish, with performances at iconic venues like Ministry of Sound London and collaborations with industry giants.

Ayodeji’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of DJs is evident in his organization of DJ competitions, providing a platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills and gain valuable exposure. His contributions to the music industry are now recognized on a global scale, making him a true force in the world of DJing.

He attended the Staff schools of Federal University of Technology Akure for his primary and secondary education. OnlyOneMassive also attended FUTA for his higher education. However, Adetiloye is passionate about music beyond DJing. He produces music, explores trends, and curates global sounds. He’s particularly enthusiastic about Afrobeats’ global impact, recognizing its unique energy and cultural richness, which has influenced mainstream pop, electronic, and hip-hop. He’s committed to pushing African-influenced electronic sounds globally, contributing to the Afrohouse and electronic music evolution.

Adetiloye’s musical spirit resonates with the echoes of DJ legends across genres. He’s inspired by the smooth grooves of Jazzy Jeff, the global rhythms explored by DJ Angelo, and the captivating Afro-centric house of Black Coffee. The driving energy of Carl Cox, the stadium anthems of David Guetta, and the youthful exuberance of Martin Garrix also resonate with him. He’s equally drawn to the dynamic stage presence and modern sounds of James Hype and John Summit. Adetiloye doesn’t just admire their music; he studies their careers, analyzing their branding, dissecting their unique DJing styles, and observing their effective use of media. He absorbs these lessons, not to emulate, but to synthesize them into his own distinct sound – a blend of homage to his influences and a powerful statement of his own artistic identity.

OnlyOneMassive stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion, innovation, and cultural pride in the global music industry. From his roots in Ijare, Ondo State, to his international recognition as a DJ, music producer, and mentor, Adetiloye has carved a unique path that bridges African sounds with global electronic music trends. His dedication to amplifying Afrobeats and Afrohouse, coupled with his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent, underscores his role as a visionary in the DJing world. As he continues to push boundaries and create massive, unforgettable experiences, OnlyOneMassive not only elevates African music on the global stage but also ensures its enduring legacy for generations to come. His journey is a reminder that with creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to one’s roots, anything is possible.