Nigerian DJ, Ayoola Folahan Abiara, also kniwn as DJ Folie has shared insights into the evolving business of DJing, explaining how modern DJs are diversifying income streams beyond live stage performances. Speaking on TRADE FM’S BUSINESS BREAKFAST BRIEFING on the topic “Monetising Sound: How DJs Make Money Beyond the Stage,” Abiara highlighted the importance of professional training, branding, and digital monetisation in building a sustainable career in the entertainment industry.
He noted that while many aspiring DJs focus on equipment and self-learning, success in the industry is largely driven by mentorship and hands-on experience. According to him, learning under experienced professionals helps DJs understand crowd control, music selection, and performance delivery—skills that cannot easily be mastered through online tutorials alone. Abiara also emphasized the business side of DJing, stressing the need for personal branding and formal registration of stage names or business identities to protect intellectual property and build credibility. He added that DJs can increase earnings through music streaming platforms such as Apple Music, Spotify, and Audiomack, as well as collaborations, endorsements, and monetised live sets, noting that the industry is increasingly driven by both talent and strategic business positioning
