Local DJ sam Hema to play at Raggamuffin

DJ Masive is set to play at Ragamuffin.

Rotorua musician Sam Hema is hoping his performance at this month's Raggamuffin Festival will inspire more local DJs to take part in the future.

Hema, also known as DJ Masive, will be the only local DJ to perform at the two-day festival, which kicks off on January 31.

This will be Hema's second year performing at the event, which he said he was looking forward to.

"I think people can expect to hear some local and Pacific reggae and some new material from me too," he said.

Hema, who has been involved in the local music scene for more than 20 years, said he felt it was important to have local acts perform at such a popular event.

"I think as a DJ, I represent our city and hopefully I can open the pathway for more local artists to get involved."

Hema said since Rotorua was hosting the event, it was important to not only have the city on show, but its talent too.

"It would be good to see more local DJs emerging and showing off the talent Rotorua has to offer."

Hema encouraged upcoming musicians to work hard to put their music out there for others to hear.

"It might be a bit of a cliche, but if you really put your shoulder to the grind, you'll get there." He admitted that being a DJ in Rotorua could be difficult sometimes.

"It's pretty tough for local DJs, there's not many outlets where you can share your music. But if you love music enough, then it doesn't matter."

Hema believed his music was different from other DJs because of the vocals he incorporates into his work.

"My point of difference is that I'm also a vocalist and I think there's not many DJs out there who sing and talk to their audience as much as I do."

When Hema is not performing, he is organising and promoting music events in Rotorua, including the official Raggamuffin after party.

Hema will be one of more than 10 DJs who will perform at the Raggamuffin Festival.

Local band Strangely Arousing is also expected to perform at the event.

For more information visit www.raggamuffin.co.nz or DJ Masive's Facebook page.