DJ Balu
The Bluesfest locals series will introduce you to the talented music makers from the Ottawa area performing at this year’s RBC Bluesfest. Come on out early to Bluesfest and discover some great new music!
DJ Balu
Thursday, July 7 to Sunday, July10
6pm to 9:30pm
Accora Village Spin Stage
Bio
DJ Balu’s funk-infused, soulful jackin’ house sound has been a driving force in Ottawa’s underground music scene for the last 30 years. His DJ talent, passion, and personality have made him resident DJ at legendary local nightclubs such as Atomic, Helsinki, Surface, Heaven, Bar 56, 27 Club, Mercury Lounge; and currently gigs at Social and begins a new adventure at Ottawa’s hottest new nightclub LIFE.
CEO of Pozativ Music Group, Balu, and partner Jeff Dougler have collaborated and produced over 50 dance music releases. In 2021, they launched their label Pozativ Music which focuses exclusively on supporting exceptional homegrown Canadian talent (available at all digital download stores).
Balu essentially can be described as internationally played, nationally respected, and locally focused while pushing Pozativ music for Pozativ People.
Q&A
What was your reaction to the news you’d be a part of Bluesfest and who was the first person you told?
I’ve been honoured to have been a part of Bluesfest for a number of years now and I’m even more ecstatic and stoked to play this year as I was the 1st time . Especially after The restrictions being lifted and all the new music coming out of the studio.
Please describe your sound.
Everything House music from Deep Funky Jazzy Lounge stuff to Jackin Techy peak Dancefloor Vibes.
How did you get started on your musical journey?
I was mesmerized at 14 with 2 Local djs while living In Toronto ..Dj Cube and Marcus Visionary …I would go to their basements and learn the craft until buying my first pair of 1200’s at 15 been mixing ever since.
You’ll be spinning several evenings at Bluesfest. What can music fans expect from your sets?
I plan on creating a musical 3 hour journey …blending in and out of different genres . from Downtempo Funk Soul Jazzy Deep stuff to Tech House Tribal NuDisco & Choice Edits.
How else are you involved in the local music scene? Do you produce any of your own music or for other artists, or organize any events?
As CEO of Pozativ Music I’ve been involved in Ottawa’s Underground Dance music scene for decades as a Dj /Producer/Promoter & Label Owner. Introducing Ottawa to hundreds of Djs/ artists over the years at some of the biggest clubs atomic Helsinki Surface Heaven, 27 Club Mercury Lounge and most recently @ Life. Co Owner Pozativ Music label with the goal of pushing our sound with remixes by local / Canadian producers to the masses
What artists are you hoping to catch during this year’s Bluesfest?
I’m hoping to catch Femi Kuti, Rise Ashen, Big Zee with dj Ray Ray, Run the Jewel, Milky Chance & TLC.