DJ Ruckus & JNR CHOI
Photographer: Anastasiya Otkidach
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
DJ Ruckus: Two things stand out for me. First, traveling the world as a DJ has opened my eyes to the power of music—how it affects people and cultures everywhere I’ve been. Experiencing different genres, sounds, and styles has shaped how I feel music, and how I merge those feelings to create something unheard of—new combinations that blend influence and emotion.
Second, technology has played a major role. What we can do now—from creating artwork to recording and releasing music—is beyond anything we could imagine back in the day. I’ve worked through both eras. There was a time when landing on someone’s album meant chasing down opportunities, relying on A&R lists, guessing what to do without being in the room, and dealing with painfully slow communication. Honestly, it wasn’t fun. Now, we have the power to share the music we love on our terms, and that’s incredibly liberating.
JNR CHOI: I’d say my career in modelling had a huge impact on the way I make music. It enhanced my perception of fashion, made me tap into my versatility with styles, which then translated to my versatility in music. Like the seasons change, so does my taste in music, which reflects on what I’m in the mood to make and put out.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
DJ Ruckus: The track I’m releasing on May 16th, ADIZA, is a perfect example. I collaborated with multiple artists and spent a long time refining every version until it felt right. JNR Choi, a UK drill rapper and singer, was the first to jump on the track. Then, my A&R for Amapiano—her name is Ifeyinweh—introduced me to Prosse, a producer, who linked with Bayanni—a young Nigerian Afrobeat singer-songwriter who was making waves in the genre.
Together, we crafted a fusion of Afrobeat, Amapiano, UK-style rap, and Nigerian Afro- rap. The track features lyrics in both English and Hausa (a Nigerian dialect), arranged with a radio-friendly structure and a bounce that keeps you dancing. It’s a cultural blend that brings something truly fresh and exciting.
JNR CHOI: Maybe the record I have with Busta Rhymes. I think after crossing paths a few times and then getting to really know each other, we found out we share the same birthday, and Busta’s words were that I remind him of a younger him. The bond changed the studio dynamic, and rather than it being some forced session, it was a pool of fire ideas that weren’t shy to break free—the result being a back-to-back, genre-breaking record including drill, jersey, afro, and amapiano on one track.
3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?
DJ Ruckus: ADIZA pushed my creative limits in many ways. Coordinating with artists spread across the globe—Choi in Bali, Bayanni in Nigeria, me in Miami—was wild. The song actually went through three completely different versions before landing where it is now.
On a deeper level, as an artist and someone labeled a “Black American,” I’m highly conscious of what I portray to the world and how the world receives it. Our culture, especially in music and dance, is magnified. I want to leave positive footprints—without stripping the fun away.
This particular song isn’t about changing the world, but it’s a feel-good club anthem that celebrates beauty, success, and good times—without relying on heavy cursing, misogyny, or glorifying violence. Don’t get me wrong, I support freedom in art—we need all of it—but personally, I like to keep it classy.
JNR CHOI: The ‘SHINE (Golden Hour Remix)’ with JVKE pushed me to write a love song without using curse words—something totally outside my norm. It made me focus more on imagery and emotion, showing me I can connect without relying on my usual edge.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
DJ Ruckus: What makes my work unique is the way I pull elements from a wide range of genres—understanding their impact during different time periods—and then patiently wait for the right moment to merge and celebrate them together.
Being a DJ gives me a real-time ear to the street. I know what’s coming, what’s fading, and what’s about to make a comeback. That perspective helps me create music that feels both familiar and brand new.
JNR CHOI: My voice is instantly recognizable, and I’m as adaptable as a chameleon. Throw any beat at me—drill, afro, amapiano—I’ll kill it, and you’ll still know it’s me.
5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?
DJ Ruckus: I want all the smoke! My goal is to perform at the best festivals, events, and parties across as many genres as I love—Afro House, Amapiano, House, Latin House, Baile Funk, and more.
I’ve been DJ Ruckus for a long time, but now I’m stepping into a new phase as the artist DJ Ruckus. I’ve got a lot to share—and I’m just getting started.
JNR CHOI: My main goal is to get back into a flow state with recording and releasing. Once I’m in that rhythm, the milestones—whether it’s chart placements, awards, or global tours—will follow naturally.
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Model: DJ Ruckus & JNR CHOI
Photographer: Anastasiya Otkidach