Every artist has a story, and for Ethan English, it begins in Secunda, South Africa. Born there before moving with his family to the Free State and later Dubai, Ethan’s journey is proof that where you start doesn’t define where you can go. “Being born in Secunda is something I’m really proud of,” he says. “It will always be part of who I am. My journey shows that with hard work, support, and dedication, a lot is possible.”
Discovering DJing at Nine Years Old
Ethan’s love for music began early, sparked by a simple moment at school. “I saw another kid DJing, and it immediately made me curious,” he recalls. That curiosity quickly grew into passion. By nine, he was DJing properly, learning music structure, practicing relentlessly, and performing at small events. His first shows — from the MENA Cup to his aunt’s wedding — were nerve‑wracking but formative. “Playing in front of people you know can be scarier than strangers, but those early performances taught me confidence.”
Crafting a Signature Style
Today, Ethan’s sets are known for their energy and emotion. He blends electronic dance music with progressive house and melodic techno, weaving stories through sound. Technical flourishes like backspins during build‑ups keep crowds locked in. “For me, a good set tells a story and takes the crowd on a journey,” he explains. His approach to live sets is carefully staged: opening with mood‑setting tracks, building intensity, and peaking at just the right moment.
Rising on Global Stages
Preparation is Ethan’s secret weapon when stepping onto massive platforms. That discipline has carried him to career highlights like opening for David Guetta at Ushuaïa Dubai, sharing lineups with Afrojack, Coco & Breezy, Calvin Harris, Martin Garrix, and more. He’s performed at Formula 1 Abu Dhabi, Untold Festival, Rave The Planet in Berlin, and festivals across Ibiza, Greece, and Amsterdam. “Playing at Rave The Planet was unforgettable — my first really big crowd, and the energy was amazing.”
Producing Music and Building Skills
Beyond DJing, Ethan is committed to production. He’s released tracks like Losing My Mind (with Julia Tribbler), Tell Me, and Serenade, and is currently working on Let You Down with his coach DJ Raphy. Piano remains his main instrument, shaping his melodies and harmonies, while he experiments with guitar and drums. Training at Dubai Sound Academy for nearly four years, Ethan has honed his craft under multiple mentors, each guiding him in DJing, instruments, and production.
Balancing School and Career
Despite his international career, Ethan remains grounded. School is a priority, carefully balanced with his performances and training. His friends and teachers are supportive, often cheering him on at school festivals. Outside of music, he enjoys fishing, PlayStation, cycling, and sports like swimming, rugby, football, and basketball. He even has a Maltese poodle named Snowy, who’s part of the family.
Looking Ahead
Ethan’s long‑term vision is clear: to become a globally recognized DJ and producer who headlines major festivals. But just as importantly, he wants to inspire others. His fan merchandise carries the words Music Unites, a mantra he hopes to embody through his performances. Upcoming events in 2026 include Freaks Festival, Rave The Planet, and Marble Circus, with more European summer shows on the horizon.
Advice for Aspiring DJs
For young dreamers, Ethan’s advice is simple but powerful: “Practice a lot and stay dedicated. DJing is a sport — it takes commitment and hard work to get better. If you really want to do it, don’t give up. Opportunities will come, and if you’ve put in the practice, you’ll be ready.”
Ethan English’s journey is still unfolding, but his story already resonates far beyond Secunda. From small school performances to global stages, his path is a reminder that passion, preparation, and perseverance can turn dreams into reality.