DJ Roko’s Inspiring Rise in EDM: Music with Meaning

From small-town beginnings in the West Midlands to the energetic dance floors of Glasgow, DJ Roko—real name Roland Kieff—is making waves in the electronic music scene with more than just catchy beats. His journey is one of resilience, passion, and purpose, bringing genuine emotion back into EDM.

Growing up with dyslexia and facing bullying at school, Roko turned to music as his sanctuary. Teaching himself the keyboard as a child, he created a world of sound where he could express himself freely. By 17, he was already DJing, discovering an innate gift for reading crowds and lifting spirits through music. “Music was my escape,” he shares, “Now I want it to be that for others too.”

Roko’s music is rooted in nostalgic influences like Depeche Mode and Human League, but it’s also infused with modern energy inspired by icons such as Calvin Harris and Tiësto. His 2024 hits like “Velocity,” “Heaven,” and “By Your Side,” and his upcoming 2025 releases “Feelings” and “LMA,” show his growth as an artist who has stayed true to his vision—even after early rejections from record labels.

What sets DJ Roko apart is his emotional honesty. Rather than chasing trends, he creates music that reflects his own experiences. “The most important thing is that I like what I do,” he says. “It makes me feel good writing songs that hopefully everyone can appreciate.”

Now based in Glasgow, Roko balances his career with his roles as a husband and father. These personal connections fuel his creativity, adding depth and warmth to his productions. His upcoming full-length album Anthem, set for release on June 27, 2025, promises a mix of instrumental and vocal tracks that embody his signature feel-good energy.

Roko is also giving back—his special track Eternally will benefit the Glasgow charity Cash for Kids, with all proceeds going toward underprivileged children. It’s proof that for DJ Roko, music isn’t just about the sound—it’s about making a difference.