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In a year that has celebrated a wave of creative excellence across the nation, DJ Kellywan has emerged as one of the most outstanding figures in Ghana’s entertainment landscape, clinching the title of Ashanti Regional DJ of the Year at the 2024 edition of the Ghana DJ Awards.
This recognition, conferred during a grand ceremony in Accra, is more than just a trophy. It is a defining moment for a talent whose journey has been grounded in hard work, versatility, and a genuine connection with audiences both on and off the airwaves.
DJ Kellywan’s story begins in 2018, where he first gained public attention as a contestant on YFM Kumasi’s Spin King competition. Though he did not emerge as the winner, his performance was a clear indication of an emerging talent with the potential to reshape the region’s entertainment culture.
Shortly after, he began working the decks at Bar Naas, a foundational experience that would eventually springboard him into more prominent roles in Kumasi’s nightlife. His sound, style, and adaptability quickly earned him bookings at top-tier establishments, including O’Lady’s Sports Bar & Lounge, Devoid Night Club, and currently, Milan Lounge, where he continues to draw large weekend crowds.
Over the past five years, DJ Kellywan has built a reputation as one of the most booked and trusted DJs in Kumasi and its surrounding towns. He has performed at almost every major venue and high-profile event in the region, offering curated sets that effortlessly blend Afrobeats, highlife, hip hop, amapiano, dancehall, and beyond.
His appeal extends far beyond the Ashanti Region. DJ Kellywan’s regional influence has reached cities such as Sunyani, Cape Coast, and Accra, where he has graced stages at both public concerts and exclusive corporate engagements. His ability to connect with diverse audiences and adapt to varied sonic environments has made him a sought-after name in Ghana’s growing DJ ecosystem.
In addition to his growing footprint on the live event scene, DJ Kellywan is also a key figure in Kumasi’s radio space. As the co-host of The Pure Drive on Pure 95.7FM—alongside celebrated radio personality Mr. Katah—he brings a refreshing energy to the airwaves every weekday afternoon. Their show has become the region’s most popular drive-time program, blending music, entertainment news, live interactions, and powerful local content to keep listeners engaged during the busiest part of the day.
The chemistry between Kellywan and Katah has been instrumental in drawing a dedicated listener base, elevating the show from a typical drive-time segment to a cultural staple in the Ashanti Region.
The Ghana DJ Awards, presented annually by Merqury Republic, is one of the country’s most respected music honours platforms, celebrating the excellence and innovation of DJs across all regions. DJ Kellywan’s win as Ashanti Regional DJ of the Year is a testament to his consistency, audience appeal, and impact on the regional entertainment scene.
For Kellywan, the award represents the culmination of years of persistence and dedication to his craft. It also sets the stage for the next phase of his career—one that promises broader national and international collaborations, headline performances, and greater media engagement.
As he stands at the height of his regional acclaim, DJ Kellywan is far from complacent. Plans are underway for curated DJ experiences, live mixtape projects, and further expansion into digital platforms. With his name increasingly being mentioned among Ghana’s next generation of influential music personalities, the future is set to hold even greater promise.
From his early beginnings as a contestant in a local competition to becoming the defining sound of Kumasi’s nightlife and afternoon radio, DJ Kellywan’s story is an emblem of what can be achieved through discipline, creativity, and an unwavering belief in one’s craft