Collins Sambu, known as Mista C, has been declared the inaugural winner of Red Bull Turn It Up’s Kenyan edition, marking a milestone in the country’s DJ culture. The competition, held in Nairobi, featured four top DJs—Mista C, Sir M, DJ Abby Muthoka, and DJ Itendera—who faced unscripted challenges requiring real-time creativity and crowd engagement. Each round presented surprise themes, forcing participants to rely on their musical expertise, adaptability, and ability to read live audiences without prior preparation. The event’s format emphasized spontaneity, with audience energy directly influencing which DJs advanced through the rounds.
The competition’s structure highlighted the evolving role of DJs in Kenya’s entertainment landscape. Hosted by Claudia Naisabwa, the event drew a packed crowd that actively shaped the outcome through their reactions. DJ Lyta oversaw the musical direction, ensuring the technical execution met the high standards of Red Bull Turn It Up, a global platform known for testing DJs beyond traditional performances. Mista C’s victory underscored the growing recognition of local talent, with the winner describing the experience as a ‘real test of everything that makes a DJ.’
Mista C, who has been a prominent figure in Kenya’s electronic music scene, expressed pride in securing the first Kenyan title. ‘Winning the first Red Bull Turn It Up in Kenya means a lot because it was a real test of everything that makes a DJ,’ he said. ‘You don’t know what theme is coming, you can’t prepare a set, and you have to trust your music knowledge, creativity, and ability to connect with the crowd.’ His win is seen as a catalyst for greater opportunities for DJs in the country, with organizers emphasizing the event’s role in elevating the craft beyond club settings.
The Kenyan edition of Red Bull Turn It Up, organized in partnership with local music stakeholders, reflects the rising influence of DJ culture in Kenya. By placing audience interaction at the core of the competition, the event not only celebrated technical skill but also reinforced the importance of live performance dynamics. As Mista C prepares to represent Kenya on the global stage, the competition has set a precedent for future events, positioning the nation as a hub for innovative DJ talent. The success of the inaugural edition has already sparked discussions about expanding the format to other African markets.
Mista C Triumphs in Historic Kenyan DJ Competition, Claims First Red Bull Turn It Up Title