A Brief Walk Through Dammy Twitch’s Timeline—Africa’s Fast-Rising Amapiano DJ

In recent years, the African music scene has seen a dynamic transformation with the emergence of the Amapiano genre—a fusion of deep house, jazz, and lounge music characterised by its use of percussive basslines and melodic rhythms. Among the artists who have risen to prominence in this genre is Dammy Twitch, a Nigerian DJ and filmmaker whose journey into the limelight is a testament to talent and hard work.

 

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born Damilola Oviashola, Dammy Twitch initially gained recognition in the Nigerian entertainment industry as a video director. His visually compelling works caught the attention of top artists, leading him to direct music videos for prominent figures like Davido, Zlatan, and Burna Boy. While he made a name for himself as a director, Twitch’s passion for music never waned. He began experimenting with DJing, mixing genres, and exploring sounds that resonated with his eclectic taste.

 

Transition into AmapianO

The turning point in Dammy Twitch’s career came with the rise of Amapiano in West Africa. Originating from South Africa, Amapiano has captivated listeners across the continent with its unique sound. Twitch saw an opportunity to blend his filmmaking expertise with his growing interest in DJing. He started creating Amapiano mixes and videos, which he shared on social media, quickly gaining a following. His knack for curating mixes that appeal to both the mainstream and niche audiences set him apart from other DJs in the genre.

Breakthrough and Collaborations

In 2021, Twitch’s work reached a wider audience when he collaborated with Nigerian artists and DJs to produce Amapiano tracks that dominated the airwaves. His ability to seamlessly infuse Nigerian and South African sounds earned him collaborations with industry heavyweights such as DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small. His track, “Ke Star Remix,” featuring Focalistic and Davido, was a massive hit, cementing his place as a rising star in the Amapiano scene.

Dammy Twitch also recently made headlines by linking up with global music and fashion icon Rihanna at her Fenty Beauty pop-up event in London. This event highlighted the burgeoning influence of the Nigerian creative, who is well-known for his work as a music video director and CEO of Polar Films Production.

Current Success and Influence

Today, Dammy Twitch is celebrated not only as a skilled DJ but also as a cultural ambassador who has contributed to the global recognition of Amapiano. He continues to perform at major events across Africa and beyond, bringing his unique sound to international stages. His journey from a music video director to a sought-after DJ is an inspiration to many young creatives across the continent.

As Dammy Twitch’s influence grows, his contributions to the Amapiano genre and African music as a whole are sure to leave a lasting impact.