Before she started her journey in radio, 11 years ago, DJ Nova honed her musical skills at college events and parties while using the name DJ Kunu.

“Prior to radio, I was at UTech [University of Technology, Jamaica] doing my degree, but I was also playing at events and building my name in the college music scene. I was always passionate about music and entertainment, so transitioning into radio felt like a natural step,” the Bull Savannah, St Elizabeth, native told the Jamaica Observer recently.

DJ Nova has for the past 3½ years been making waves on Fyah 105 FM, while keeping the crowd moving each week at Club Casamigos, as she commands the scene, bringing her own signature style to one of the hottest spots in town.

“Before DJ Nova, I went by Kunu, which was my dorm name at the time, and there are actually some people who still call me that to this day. My real name is Chantele,” she shared.

“I’ve grown so much since I started, both as a DJ and a personality in the entertainment industry. I was always passionate about music and entertainment, so transitioning into radio felt like a natural step,” the past student of Hampton School explained.

DJ Nova has also evolved into music production, establishing her label Nxnty One Music.

“Music has always been a huge part of my life, and even though I didn’t come from a musical background, I created my own path, so starting my production label, Nxnty One Music, was a natural progression for me. It gives me the creative space to experiment, develop new sounds, and bring fresh ideas to life. I also took an audio engineering course, which has been a game-changer when it comes to recording, mixing, and fine-tuning sessions. Beyond production, I’ve built a strong presence in voiceover work, and I’ve worked with major corporate companies and high-profile events,” said DJ Nova who has worked with a coterie of emerging and established acts.

DJ Nova told the Observer that her love for the music scene has caused her to work on many new things, with a few in the pipeline.

“I’m currently working on an upcoming project in collaboration with [the Mandeville-based] Brain Freeze Records featuring Demarco and other well-known artistes. In addition to that, I have several mixtapes available on SoundCloud, and right now I’m putting together a special one for the soca season… So stay tuned for that.”

And with the soca season now fast approaching, DJ Nova shared some of her favourite soca jams for the season:

“Cocoa Tea by KES is the perfect way to ease into the vibe. It’s smooth, feel-good, and has that infectious groove that makes people start moving without even thinking about it, and before you know it, they’re singing along, feeling the rhythm, and locked in for the rest of the set. It definitely sets the tone for pure energy ahead,” she said.

“Hero by GBM Nurton is pure magic. The energy, the lyrics, and the rhythm resonate with me as a soca lover. It’s one of those tracks that lifts your spirit and reminds you of why we celebrate Carnival. The moment it drops, you can feel the happiness take over, and that’s what it’s all about — feeling good and free,” she prescribed.

The partying DJ said Come Home by Nailah Blackman & Skinny Fabulous is “pure ignition and never fails. The build-up alone is electric, and when that chorus hits, it’s game over; because the whole place erupts, and everyone is singing loud and proud. It’s one of those songs that demands a reaction, and the energy it brings is just unreal”.

Her list of must-play also includes Carry It by Bunji Garlin, Run Wid It by Mr Killa, Good Spirits (Full Blown), One Piece (GBM Nutron), Long Live Soca (Voice), and Pardy (Machel Montano).

Asked about Ring Finga by Lady Lava, she responded: “The ladies love this track! The moment that beat drops, they get into character by flashing the ring finger and commanding attention. I can see them getting wild on the road with this anthem. It’s confidence, attitude, and pure energy all in one song.”

DJ Nova hopes that for the upcoming soca season she will be able to bring nonstop energy to capture the essence of Carnival.

“I want people to remember why we’re here, which is to celebrate, to let loose, and to party… especially after a long workweek. Whether you’re on the road or in a fête, I want to brings the vibes every single time,” she charged.