At the event, DJ Jimmy Jatt explained, “It is hard to believe that 25 years have gone by and I have been having the time of my life doing the job I love. This anniversary celebration is to take people on my journey so far and also to show my appreciation for their continued support all these 25 years.”
Born Jimmy Adewale Amu, DJ Jimmy Jatt is a veteran DJ, artiste and producer from Lagos Island, Nigeria. During his childhood, he was exposed to blues, soul, Jazz, Funk, R&B, and hip-hop along with other indigenous genres like Juju, Apala, Fuji and Highlife, giving him an eclectic flair for music.
Jimmy started a collection of rap albums from the 70’s and 80’s as he developed a strong interest in hip hop. He initially launched himself as a rapper with the name Master J, but did not get far as he received no support from a record label, despite releasing various demos.
With the support of his brothers, he ventured into Disc jockeying and opened up a studio. The studio was called Jatt Studio, Jatt being an acronym for Jimmy,Amu,Tunde and Tayo.
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Members of the planning committee for the anniversary Matthew Ohio and Ubi Franklin of Triple MG also spoke.
The revered DJ also took the media through the activities taking place during his anniversary:
DJ Jimmy Jatt is revered till date for his key role in setting the pace for contemporary music in Nigeria. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of Nigerian hip-hop. DJ Jimmy Jatt started the ROAD BLOCK Street Carnival in Nigeria which was a forum for hip hop artistes to be groomed, whilst engaging in lyrical battles. His studio was equipped with speakers, turntables, amplifiers and microphones, causing a regular stampede of young artists showing up to jump start their careers in the Jatt Studio. Artists including Junior and Pretty, Daddy Fresh, Daddy Showkey, DJ Abdullah, EL Cream, Ruff, Rugged and Raw amongst others called Jimmy’s studio home during their early days.
This year will also mark the return of his legendary TV show ‘Jimmy’s Jump-Off’ which has featured Nigeria’s biggest music acts including 2face,Mode9, M.I, Ice Prince, the Late Dagrin, Sauce Kid and many more.
A documentary on the respected DJ and an official video ‘Glasses Up’ featuring Tuface and Burna Boy will be released as the theme song for the anniversary.