You have likely heard his name, followed his sets, or danced to his mixes at some of Kampala’s biggest bars and events.
DJ Dash is known not only for his music but also for his bold personality, sense of luxury, and his role as a Don Julio brand influencer.
So it was no surprise that his birthday celebration on Monday night turned into a high end affair, as luxury tequila brand Don Julio partnered with premium venue Mezo Noir to mark his life and career journey.
Even though it was a Monday, expectations were low about turnout, but Kampala showed up in style.
The gates opened at 7pm, with early guests trickling in just before 10pm. Groups arrived in twos, fours and fives, and by midnight every table was filled. What started as a weekday quickly turned into a full weekend vibe.
From Amapiano to various electronic sounds, DJs delivered nonstop energy, with back to back pair performances that kept the crowd moving.
It was a duo driven night behind the decks, with City Girl teaming up with DJ Ames, Edwizzy working alongside DJ Mato, the Wav Bros performing together, while the celebrant DJ Dash played alongside Spinny. Sheilah Gashumba, also known as DJ Lil Stunner and a Don Julio 1942 ambassador, made a surprise appearance despite not being on the lineup.
The night also featured unexpected moments, from high end fashion and curated menus to Don Julio mentorship sessions led by the Uganda Breweries Limited advocacy team, headed by Melanie Kaita and Steve Baguma.
Guests were guided through tasting experiences and educated on how to better enjoy Don Julio, sampling different expressions including Blanco, Añejo and Reposado.
Reserve Brand Ambassador Melanie Kaita led small groups at the Don’s table, explaining different ways tequila can be enjoyed as well as cocktail preparation techniques.
“For quite some time, tequila was misunderstood in Uganda. Many people thought tequila should only be rightfully taken in shots. They also thought that it had to be taken with lemon and salt. Yet tequila is more than that; I believe tequila is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in many ways. It can be sipped just like a whisky, it can be used to make cocktails, and it can be consumed in shots with a pineapple slice,” she said.
She also explained the brand’s connection with DJ Dash.
“DJ Dash truly loves Don Julio. He was one of the first people who was seen consuming Don Julio in different places after we launched in Uganda. And being the talented disc spinner he is, we felt it was prudent to collaborate with him. And the relationship came about so easily, ours is a symbiotic relationship. So celebrating Dash came quite easily. We are happy to be a part of Dash’s journey, and we look forward to many more parties and celebrations together. Happy birthday, DJ Dash.”
Throughout the night, the iconic Dorime sound played repeatedly as guests ordered premium Don Julio 1942 bottles, with staff from Mezo Noir ensuring each delivery was done in creative style.
According to Judie Nandekya, Senior Brand Manager for Tequila and Rum, East Africa, the celebration reflected the brand’s spirit.
“Don Julio is all about monumental celebrations. DJ Dash's birthday is worth celebrating. He represents our vibrant core range, and he has done an amazing job pushing it forward. There was no better way to celebrate him than partnering with him to create such a memorable luxurious experience done the Don Julio way,” she said.
DJ Dash expressed gratitude for the celebration.
“Tonight is such a huge night for me. I am celebrating my birthday and my journey, as both a DJ and a Don Julio influencer. I appreciate Don Julio for partnering with me to celebrate me so lavishly,” he said.
The celebration added energy to Mezo Noir’s Useless Mondays, drawing Kampala’s social scene heavyweights in honour of a DJ who has entertained the city for over a decade.
