From dropping beats in his Melbourne bedroom at just 14 to commanding headline slots on massive stages, DJ Horizon has well and truly arrived. Born Akhit Honawar and raised in Melbourne, he started DJing at school discos and was performing at clubs by age 16. Since then, he’s become Australia’s go-to R&B and hip-hop selector—scoring the first-ever signing to Lucky Ent for a hip-hop DJ, later joining Mushroom Group, and fronting RNB Fridays Live.
His global credits? Spinning for Drake, Usher, Janet Jackson, Migos, A$AP Rocky, Jason Derulo, Trey Songz, just to name a few. He’s also viral on TikTok, with over 40 million views across his mixes and remixes. Beyond music, Horizon’s an entrepreneur—launching the water-flossing brand Swiggle Smiles, featured in Vogue, GQ, and Vanity Fair. Combining show-stopping sets, social buzz, and business instinct, Horizon is a blueprint in global DJ branding. Ahead of his set at AVENUE Singapore on Saturday 14, June, here’s what he had to say...
View this post on Instagram
You’ve built a reputation as one of the most in-demand DJs in Australia — what’s been the key to keeping your sets fresh and exciting?
You always need to stand out and bring energy to your shows. Engage with the crowd always and make them feel like you acknowledge their presence. No one likes a DJ that just stares at a laptop screen. I always make sure that it is an experience no matter what size show I do.
You've spun for everyone from Drake to Migos and A$AP Rocky. What’s been your most memorable behind-the-scenes moment with an artist so far?
To be honest, Drake, Migos, A$AP Rocky were definitely cool. However, my most memorable experience was definitely touring with Usher and Janet Jackson during Australia's largest festival, RNB Fridays Live. I grew up listening to these acts, so to be able to tour the country with them was an amazing experience.
View this post on Instagram
From hip-hop bangers to club anthems, how do you craft a setlist that resonates with both local and global crowds?
I never pre-plan my sets. I always go with the flow. Usually when I enter a venue, I can get a sense of vibe and direction before I jump on the decks. You gotta feel the energy and then make a direction from there.
You’re performing at AVENUE Singapore soon — what can fans expect from your set?
Definitely a mix between new wave R&B/hip-hop mixed with some old school. Depending on the vibe, we may even throw in a little bit of afro house.
View this post on Instagram
Asia’s nightlife scene has been buzzing lately. What’s been your experience playing in the region recently?
I travel to China/Asia quite often for business outside of DJing. The nightlife scene is insane — from bottle service shows to clientele. It’s always fun!
You’ve crossed genres and borders in your career — what’s one sound or scene you’re excited to explore next?
I love house music. It’s something definitely cool to explore in the future.
View this post on Instagram
For fans looking to follow in your footsteps, what’s your biggest piece of advice for building a global DJ career in 2025?
The most important thing is to create your DJ brand like a fashion brand. What do you want to be? Louis Vuitton? Gucci? Nike? Dior? These are all brands, and your DJ brand should align. Yes, the music you play is great, but it’s more than music. Once you know your brand direction, create as much content and get yourself out there. Most importantly, be unique — there are a lot of DJs out there. What makes you different? Once you find out, run with it. Good luck!
Click here for more information about DJ Horizon's upcoming set at AVENUE Singapore.
Like what you read? Show our writer some love!
-