DJ TTB Talks Career, Challenges, and Vision for the Future

Renowned DJ Tochukwu Ananti, better known as DJ TTB, has opened up about his journey into the music industry, the challenges he’s faced, and his vision for the future during an exclusive press interview. DJ TTB, whose sound has graced major events like the MTVBASE MaMa Awards, shared insights into his career path and what continues to inspire his work today.

TTB’s foray into DJing was somewhat unexpected, stemming from his deep passion for music and the influence of a neighbor. “I was inspired by my love for music and passion to make people happy,” he said.

“Djing kinda happened to me. My neighbor in my final year in university was a DJ, so I learned effortlessly.”

Despite lacking a formal mentor, TTB credits his friends for their unwavering support. “No one, just my friends—they were the real MVPs. Their support kept me growing,” he explained.

TTB reflected on the challenges he faced early in his career, including crowd anxiety and societal stereotypes about DJs. “The anxiety of the crowd mentality, not knowing if they’re going to like my set or even dance… and the whole DJ career stereotypes. I mean, I’m an industrial chemist and left it for DJing. People couldn’t understand it at the time,” he shared.

Over the years, TTB has developed a unique sound, blending genres like Afrohouse, EDM, dancehall, and more. “The TTB experience is a hybrid fusion and recreation of these genres to give a vibe like no other. My sound is unique,” TTB said.

His creative process is meticulous, as he tailors each set to the venue and audience. “I do my little research about the venue and audience I’m about to DJ for, then create something specifically tailored for them,” TTB explained. He emphasizes the importance of matching the right songs to the right environment, stating, “It’s bad to play a good song at the wrong place—both must match.”

One of the most defining moments of his career came in 2008, when he performed at the MTVBASE MaMa Awards in Abuja. “It was a euphoric experience. I shared the stage with Flo-Rida and The Game,” he recalled, adding that the event shaped his career direction.
Recognition has followed TTB throughout his career, including winning the prestigious World’s Best DJ award at the 2018 NEA Awards in Washington, D.C. Reflecting on another milestone, he said, “When I landed my own TV show, ‘DJ TAKEOVER’ on MTVBASE, it was a dream come true.”

In addition to his thriving DJ career, TTB runs the Ace DJ Academy, which started as a small project in 2016 and has since trained over 80 DJs globally. “We now train music producers, light engineers, and sound engineers,” he said, with plans to expand the academy further.
Looking to the future, TTB remains committed to evolving with the changing music industry. “The end game is creating a legend, ‘TTB,’” he declared. His long-term goal is to establish the largest skill acquisition academy to help combat unemployment in Africa.
For aspiring DJs, TTB offers simple but essential advice: “Put in the work, earn the skills, and choose a mentor. Diligence and humility are key to success.”

DJ TTB’s passion for music and dedication to his craft continue to inspire both fans and emerging talent, ensuring that his impact on the industry will be felt for years to come.