“My mother saw deejaying as an unstable career, and that added a lot of pressure on me”
Gospel music is more than a genre for Kelvin Ochieng, professionally known as DJ CST.As a gospel DJ, Kelvin is transforming lives across Kenya and beyond by using gospel music as a bridge to share the love, truth and hope of Christ. His ministry is grounded in faith and fueled by creativity. He is redefining how gospel music connects with audiences from the streets of Mukuru kwa Njenga to vibrant church gatherings.
Personal Background
Kelvin Ochieng or DJ CST, is a graduate of Word of Life Africa Bible Institute, where he studied Theology and Bible Counseling. Raised as an only child, Kelvin’s early life was marked by a deep reliance on God, a trait that now anchors his work in gospel music ministry. His love for music began young. His mother recalls him dancing to everything, even the evening news. This evolved into a passion for deejaying, which he honed through self-taught practice and mentorship from DJ She’ll and DJ K-Slim.
The name “CST” (Can’t Stop This) was inspired by his pastor, Pastor Dante who affirmed Kelvin’s unstoppable purpose. With hashtags like #RepresentingJesusOnWheels and #FromHymnToHim, DJ CST uses gospel music to bring sacred messages into everyday spaces making faith accessible and vibrant.
Why Focus on Gospel Music?
Kelvin’s choice to focus on gospel music was deeply personal. Growing up in Mukuru kwa Njenga, he witnessed spiritual abuse and manipulation, particularly among youth. This ignited a desire to use gospel music as a tool to reach unchurched young people with Christ’s transformative love. Unlike secular genres, gospel music offered Kelvin a platform to minister authentically, aligning his talents with his faith.
Musical and Personal Influences
Kelvin draws inspiration from gospel DJs like DJ Ruff for his creativity, OJ the DJ for unique refixes, and DJ Moz of Kubamba for his encouragement through events like Life on Life 3rd Service. Spiritually, mentors like Pastor Zeph, emphasized his identity in Christ and Pastor Maish, who supported his mobile outreach show “Story Za Baze” during COVID-19, have shaped his journey. Their guidance keeps him rooted in purpose, ensuring gospel music remains his ministry’s heartbeat.
Professional Journey in Gospel Music
Landing the First Gig
Kelvin’s first gospel DJ gig was a leap of faith. While assisting DJ K-Slim at a Back 2 School event hosted by Gospel Center International, he was unexpectedly thrust behind the decks to perform for over 500 attendees. Though nervous, this moment taught him to trust God under pressure and marked the start of his gospel music career.
Obstacles in the Gospel Music Industry
Entering the gospel music industry wasn’t easy. Kelvin grappled with defining his role as a gospel DJ, questioning whether he could learn from secular DJs without compromising his calling. Family opposition, particularly from his mother who saw deejaying as unstable added pressure. Within the gospel community, some DJs were protective limiting opportunities. These challenges forced Kelvin to lean into his purpose, trusting God to open doors. 1 Corinthians 13:14 opened my eyes to this.
Most Memorable Performance
Kelvin’s standout moment came when Hype Ses introduced him to Mavuno Church for a Fearless Graduation Gathering. The electric performance led to referrals, many people asked for his number and invitations affirming his calling in gospel music. It was a pivotal moment, proving that his ministry through music was making a tangible impact.
The Power of Gospel Music
Gospel music is a ministry that transcends culture and generation, offering hope in a world seeking meaning. In Kenya, the gospel music scene is thriving, with emerging artists like Guardian Angel blending faith with fresh sounds. DJ CST stays relevant by curating gospel music that glorifies God while engaging diverse audiences through Afrobeat, reggae, hip-hop, and more.
His preparation for sets involves prayer, research and crafting playlists that balance energy and spiritual depth. Live mixing, scratching and effects enhance his performances ensuring gospel music remains dynamic without losing its message.
Audience Engagement and Industry Insights
DJ CST connects with audiences through call and response verbal cues.DJ CST’s ability to engage diverse audiences across denominations, ages and backgrounds lies in focusing on themes like joy, hope and faith.
Most Memorable Fan Moment
An attendee said, “I came to dance, but I left feeling restored,” highlight the transformative power of gospel music. Kenya’s gospel music scene is evolving, with a fusion of genres and rising talent. While some worry about blurred lines with secular sounds, Kelvin sees opportunity for authenticity. Staying anchored in the Word, he blends relevance with reverence, ensuring gospel music remains a beacon of truth.
Future Plans and Legacy
“I aim to expand my gospel music ministry globally through projects like his mix series From Him To Hymn.” is what Kelvin looks at in his future plans. The series reimagines traditional hymns with modern sounds. He envisions creating spaces for gospel music to thrive and inspiring future artists.
Personal Reflection
For DJ CST, faith is the foundation of his gospel music ministry. To him deejaying is more than performance ; it’s a way to serve and carry Christ’s message. Balancing professional and personal life requires intentionality, time for God, community and boundaries to protect his purpose.
Advice to upcoming Gospel DJ’s and artists
“Matthew 6:33 has guided me since the start to this day. It says: ‘But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.’ Stay grounded in your calling. Don’t chase trends – carry truth. Let gospel music change your life first, and God will use it to change others.”
Quick Fire Facts About DJ CST
- Favorite Gospel Song – Eko Dydda : Pastor Kwa Hood
- Favorite Musician – Timam Evans
- Favorite food – Fish
- Morning or Night Gigs: Night gigs for the electric praise vibe
- Vinyl, CDs, or Digital: Digital for flexibility and creativity
- Phrase to describe DJing Style: Smooth and simplified audio experience
Social Media Handles
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/djcstofficial?igsh=Z2kwYTZrYWYxNWxl&utm_source=qr
Tiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@djcst254?_t=ZM-8td53jGmPET&_r=1
Youtube : https://youtu.be/ftwF1JMD-9s?si=eDuvv-543HaB2Uwc
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