AfroVibes DJ Feature: Paulie Rhyme
- Cali Avenue Promotions
- Jul 10, 2025
- 3 min read
Each AfroVibes International event is powered by the DJs behind the decks. In this spotlight, we're featuring Paulie Rhyme, one of the talents bringing the global energy to the AfroVibes stage.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am from Cleveland, Ohio and spent a good amount of time in the Bay Area, CA before moving to Japan. I started djing in college, but didn't get back into it seriously until I moved to Japan 10 years ago when I moved to Handa, Aichi. There is a local spot there called SakaBarやみくろ, and I started djing and performing pretty regularly, which led to more parties, records, and connections. I think people should know that I love all kinds of music and do my best to keep the crowd rocking, while introducing them to their new favorites.
2. What genres do you love spinning the most, and how would you describe your sound or style as a DJ?
Being from the Midwest, most parties when I was growing up were multi-genre. Even though it might be primarily one genre like Hip Hop, you are definitely going to get some House and Reggae. I would say my style is true to my roots and my main mission or style is to rock the party. If I had to choose I would say I am more into Hip Hop on a daily basis, but House is right there for me. I have been a fan of Afro House and Kwaito since spending summer in Capetown in the 10s, so Afrobeats was an easy transition.
3. Every DJ has their process. How do you prepare for a set, especially for high-energy multicultural events like AfroVibes?
I have been fortunate to build with some great DJs and record pools, so I spend time with my music often, making playlists, practicing, and updating. If the homies have new remixes or edits, I definitely check those out and I will do my due diligence if it is a genre specific night. If I am rocking with the homies, then I will spend time making sure I am format ready, especially if it is an all vinyl night. AfroVibes is fun because I tend to lean into the uptempo dance friendly joints the most, and the crowds are all about that.
4. What’s been one of your most memorable DJ experiences so far?
I would say doing a DJ set in Shanghai, while I was on tour as support for a Japanese artist and friend Nomak. It was either the second or third time we were over there and the venue was super cool. They ended up having an after party and let me rock. It was my first time spinning over there and it was dope. It really changed my approach to performing and view of being just a rapper. Since then, I have definitely worn both hats on the same weekend or night. I would say that was a defining moment for me as an artist and DJ.
5. What advice would you give to aspiring DJs trying to break into the international party scene?
Victory is preparation. The more that you can tap in with the organizer or the event, go back and then do your homework, the better it will be. There is never being over prepared. Bring extra chords, be ready to rock on the house set, or bring some type of back up. You still need to have your own identity and style for sure, but being humble and figuring out how you fit in the night is not a bad thing. I would say also, find you a local spot, regardless of size and build from there. Connect with the people, support, and it will happen.
6. Who’s a DJ or music producer you consider a major inspiration and why?
That's tough. As far as DJs go, I would say the homie Gordo Cabeza. He is the founder of Motown on Mondays, someone I came up with in the Bay, and has carved his own lane. Producer wise, it is a toss up. The Bangerz or King Most. Just super dope people who continue to evolve and make super dope things at a high level. There are really too many to name though.
7. Where can people follow your journey?
Follow him and stay tuned for more DJ Spotlights from AfroVibes International!
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