DJ Bliss has been living up to his billing by delivering blazing sets on a global scale.
Serving as one of the leading forces championing Dubai’s music and nightlife scene, the music maestro continues to make a mark on the world stage – having shared platforms with the likes of Drake, Beyonce, and Swedish House Mafia.
When not packing dancefloors with hits such as the BIA-assisted ‘808’ and ‘Hala Walla’ (which arrived via FIVE Music), he can be seen making waves on the hit Netflix series ‘Dubai Bling.’ The latter of which is apt given his rousing residency at FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s hotspot BLING.
That Grape Juice
Join us after the jump where we get to know the vendor of good vibes the more…
How have you seen the nightlife and music scene in Dubai evolve over the years, and what role do you feel you’ve played in shaping it?
The entertainment landscape in Dubai has grown massively over the years, and I’ve been lucky enough to witness, and be a part of, that evolution firsthand. Not too long ago, there were only a handful of places where you could discover fresh beats. Today, Dubai stands as a global music hub, attracting artists from around the world who are keen to showcase their talents in the city. In my sets, I strive to embody the energy and diversity that defines this remarkable city. By fusing international notes with regional influences, I’ve achieved my goal of pushing creative boundaries – crafting a unique sound that is unmistakably Dubai.
You’ve performed alongside global superstars like Drake and Beyonce. How have these collaborations influenced your career and musical style?
Performing alongside these global icons has been surreal. It’s not just about being on stage with them; it’s about observing their work ethic, how they connect with their audiences, and how they keep evolving their personal brands. Those experiences showed me the importance of always pushing boundaries, and of evolving my sound. It also gave me the confidence to experiment – blending global and regional elements that make my music stand out. Working with such talented artists has definitely shaped my vision, especially in terms of creating tracks that resonate across different cultures and audiences.
You’ve garnered international attention with tracks such as ‘808’ with BIA and ‘Hala Walla (ft. Shaggy).’ What about songs like this do you feel magnetize the masses and how do they reflect the regional music culture?
Tracks like ‘808’ and ‘Hala Walla’ have an international appeal because they merge multiple musical styles. With ‘808,’ we brought in a ‘trap vibe’ that connects with audiences globally, and it also pays tribute to an iconic instrument—the 808 drum machine. With the support of FIVE Hotels and Resorts and Warner Music Central Europe, the track reached #7 on the official Spotify Top-200 United Arab Emirates Charts. With ‘Hala Walla,’ we mixed in reggae, which resonates with a wide range of people. At its core, the songs undeniably reflect the energy of the Middle East. The rhythms, the beats, and how you move to them is all a reflection of the vibrant and growing music culture in the region. What makes them click with the audiences- at large is that they feel both familiar and fresh at the same time, bringing something new while staying true to the sounds that music listeners love.
Your residency at FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s BLING has been pivotal to your success. How has your partnership with FIVE Music shaped your career, and what makes this venue special for you?
My residency at FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s BLING has been great. FIVE is more than just a venue; it’s a cultural hotspot that brings together luxury, music, and an incredible atmosphere. Partnering with FIVE Music allowed me to elevate my sound and reach new audiences. It’s not just about DJing at a club—it’s about creating an immersive experience that people won’t forget. The energy at BLING is unmatched; it’s a distinctive underground venue for exceptional music that sets the tone for a great night out. Every time I step into that booth, I feel like I’m part of something larger than myself—a vibrant, global community and a dynamic music movement. FIVE gets that, and that’s what makes this partnership so meaningful, unique and fun.
As someone who has performed at iconic events in Miami, Ibiza, Singapore, and more, how do these regions differ from each other and do you tailor your approach when in different places?
Every place has its own unique energy. Miami embodies Latin influences and high-energy beats, while Ibiza is home to dance music – inviting a worldwide audience that truly understands and appreciates that signature style of music. Singapore personifies a mix of urban sophistication with a twist of fun; so each destination requires a curated approach. I always tailor my sets based on the environment and the culture of the region. But no matter where I am, I try to bring a piece of Dubai with me—the variety, the fusion of sounds, and the energy that makes the city’s music scene singular.
Being part of Netflix’s Dubai Bling brought you into the spotlight outside of the music world. How has this experience affected your career, and do you see yourself pursuing more media opportunities?
‘Dubai Bling’ was a whole new experience for me. It took me out of the DJ booth and into people’s homes, giving them a glimpse of my life beyond music. I’m definitely open to more media projects, but music will always be at the heart of what I do. That said, I’m not afraid to step out of my comfort zone and explore other ways to connect with people, whether that’s through TV, streaming, or something else entirely.
With the rise of new music platforms and genres, where do you see the future of Dubai’s music scene heading, and how are you adapting to these changes as both a DJ and producer?
The future of Dubai’s music landscape is exciting—it’s evolving at a global level while maintaining its unique identity. With streaming platforms and social media, it’s easier than ever for artists from Dubai to reach an international audience. I’m constantly adapting by experimenting with new sounds, collaborating with diverse artists, and staying on top of trends. As a DJ and producer, it’s all about finding the balance between staying true to your roots while evolving with the times. The key is to keep pushing the envelope while ensuring the music resonates with people on a deeper level.
Who are you listening to musically at the moment?
I’m into a lot of Afrobeat and Amapiano right now. Artists like Asake, Diamond Platnumz, Huguel, and Major League DJz have been on repeat. But, I’m always switching it up—there’s so much good music coming out from all over the world, and I like to keep my playlists diverse.
What’s next for DJ Bliss?
There’s a lot in the works right now. I’ve got new music lined up, collaborations I’m really excited about, and of course, more performances around the world. My residency at FIVE is also just getting started again. There’s much to look forward to at Playa Pacha at FIVE LUXE JBR—a venue that makes for Dubai’s largest pool and beach club experience; as well as the iconic Bohemia by FIVE at Beach by FIVE, FIVE Palm Jumeirah—a landmark for the best beach parties in Dubai. We’re crafting some extraordinary experiences at FIVE, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we have in store.
