Celebrating Identity Through Sound: The Journey of DJ and Producer Ahadadream

Photograph by Radhika Muthanna, courtesy of Universal Music Group

Ahad Elley, known to the world as DJ and producer Ahadadream, is carving out a unique identity in the electronic music scene. With his debut album, PKI*, set for release, he is not just an artist; he is a cultural ambassador, merging his rich background and experiences into his explosive sound.

From Pakistan to the UK: A Unique Musical Journey

Born in Islamabad and raised in Karachi, Elley’s musical journey began at vibrant family weddings, where the pulse of powerful sound systems first ignited his passion. After moving to the UK at the age of 12, he faced the challenges of cultural displacement and identity crisis. This move occurred during a turbulent period post-9/11, resulting in significant struggles with assimilation and acceptance in a predominantly white environment.

“I grew up where that word wasn’t a slur; it was a way to describe where I’m from,” Elley reflects. His resilience is evident in how he transformed these cultural trials into a celebration of identity through music.

Embracing Dance Music

Elley’s love for music deepened while attending the University of Surrey, where he initially pursued a chemistry degree. Here, he discovered the emerging genres of dubstep and bass music, becoming enthralled by their energy and innovation. He immersed himself in the electronic music scene by starting a show on student radio and organizing his own events, even with financial losses, showcasing his determination to create spaces for music he loved.

“I was booking people I still love today… It began this whole ethos of not waiting for other people to book me but to just book myself instead,” he says, echoing the entrepreneurial spirit that drives many successful artists in today’s music landscape.

A Thriving Collaborative Spirit

Ahadadream’s rise has been marked by collaborations, most notably with EDM pioneer Skrillex. Their partnership blossomed from a chance meeting in London to creative projects that have significantly shaped both their careers. Elley recalls their first connection and how a single Zoom call led to the creation of the track, “Taka,” cementing a mutually supportive relationship in the competitive music industry.

As the co-founder of the South Asian-focused club night No ID and the festival Dialled In, Elley has also dedicated himself to uplifting other DJs and artists from the South Asian diaspora. His ventures aim to create platforms where diverse influences can flourish, reflecting the rich tapestry of experiences that come from a multicultural background.

PKI: An Album of Identity and Empowerment

His debut album, PKI*, aptly captures the essence of his cultural journey. The title, pronounced “pee-star-kay-eye,” represents a reclamation of a racial slur and redefines it as a badge of honor. It comprises 11 tracks that illustrate his personal and artistic evolution, fusing various genres and sounds gleaned from his travels and experiences.

“I want to be loud and unapologetically who I am,” Elley emphasizes, and this ethos reverberates through tracks like “Tere Bin,” which combines traditional Sufi vocals with modern electronic beats, and “Koi Si,” a nod to contemporary Punjabi music. This fusion not only creates a dance floor experience but also serves as a cultural dialogue that questions and celebrates racial identities.

Building Community Through Music

Elley’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond his music. With the inception of Dialled In, a festival that launched in 2021, he has successfully created a vital space for South Asian artists. The festival has recently grown to host events at iconic locations, including the first South Asian stage at Glastonbury Festival and Boiler Room collaborations across South Asia.

“I’d seen so many DJs killing it and wanted to platform them somehow,” he recalls of his motivation for creating these events. Dialled In has now not only become a celebration of South Asian artistry but also a significant player in the broader UK electronic music scene.

Conclusion of a Journey and the Beginning of More

As Ahadadream gears up for the release of PKI*, his journey of self-discovery and musical exploration is far from over. “It’s the first of what I hope are many, many more albums to come,” he states, hinting at the exciting possibilities ahead.

He embodies the spirit of a generation seeking to express identity through art, inspiring others to embrace their cultural backgrounds while pushing the boundaries of their respective genres. With performances continuing, including an upcoming show in Lahore, Elley’s story reflects a full-circle moment, highlighting the beauty and complexity of identity in the world of music.

In a rapidly evolving music landscape, Ahadadream stands out as a vibrant force, driven to gather and showcase the incredible talent emerging from the diaspora, proving that sound—like identity—is a rich and ever-evolving tapestry.