Last night, the city’s nightlife scene came alive as Joseph Kalisa, famously known as DJ Spinny, celebrated 10 years behind the decks with his much-anticipated “DJ Spinny & Friends” event. The event, which sold out weeks in advance, brought together top socialites, slay queens, fellow DJs, and artists to honor one of Uganda’s most influential DJs.
Fans described the evening as “magical” and “electric,” with the venue buzzing from start to finish. But Spinny’s journey to this night wasn’t always glitz and glamour—he opened up about hitting rock bottom early in his career.
From Humiliation to Inspiration
Before the event, Spinny shared a defining moment that almost derailed his dreams. Early in his career, he was humiliated and kicked out of a club while trying to make his mark.
“I was chased out of the club. The owner asked, ‘Who is this young boy?’ DJ Jelly was the house DJ back then. I packed my bags and went home,” Spinny recalled.
Instead of giving up, he turned that low point into a launchpad for his future. Sitting in his bedroom that night, he asked himself one simple but powerful question:
“What’s next?”
That question sparked a revolutionary idea—a strategy that would not only change his career but also cement his reputation as a smart marketer and DJ.
The Night That Changed Everything
Spinny remembered that the club owner was Rwandese, so he decided to flip the script. He pitched a concept that personally connected with the owner—a Rwandese-themed night featuring his friends DJ Pius, Charly Na Nina, and Geosteady, who at the time had the hit song “Owooma.”
“I told him, ‘I’m not coming back as a DJ, I’m coming as a host and marketer. Let’s do a Rwandese night.’ By then, DJ Pius, Charly Na Nina, and Geosteady had the hit song ‘Owooma’. I told him they’re my friends—we talk every day,” Spinny explained.
With DJ Pius on board, the event went ahead at Atmosphere Lounge, and it was packed to capacity for the very first time.
“The energy was unmatched. The owner, beaming with pride, walked up to me, kissed me on the cheek. That was my turning point. From that night, we built a strong bond,” he added.
10 Years of Music, Hustle, and Triumph
Fast forward to last night’s sold-out celebration, and DJ Spinny has clearly come a long way from that bedroom reflection. The “DJ Spinny & Friends” event wasn’t just a party—it was a testament to his perseverance, creativity, and ability to turn setbacks into opportunities.
Attendees were treated to exclusive sets from top DJs, surprise guest appearances, and live performances that had the crowd on their feet. The celebration reaffirmed Spinny’s status as a pioneer in the Ugandan DJ scene, blending innovation with deep connections in the music industry.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for DJ Spinny?
After a decade of highs, lows, and legendary moments, Spinny is already planning the next chapter of his career. He hinted at expanding his events across East Africa and nurturing new talent, giving back to the next generation of DJs.
“It’s about creating opportunities for others, just like those who believed in me when I was starting,” he said.
VIDEO: I was chased out of the club as a first time DJ.- DJ Spinny #SpinnyAndFriends #NBSAfter5 pic.twitter.com/WJHh2wkg0H
— NBS After 5 (@NBSAfter5) October 10, 2025
Fans React to the Big Milestone
Social media exploded with support for the DJ, with fans praising his resilience, innovation, and showmanship. Many called the sold-out event “iconic” and “well-deserved,” cementing DJ Spinny as a household name in Uganda’s music scene.
“From being chased out of a club to packing a sold-out venue—Spinny is the definition of hustle,” one fan tweeted.
The Takeaway
DJ Spinny’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and personal branding. From his early humiliation to running sold-out shows, he’s proven that setbacks can fuel breakthroughs.
Stay tuned for more exclusive updates on DJ Spinny and his next big moves! What are your thoughts on his decade-long journey? Drop a comment below!
