Ten years ago, when he decided to pursue music professionally, DJ Noi encountered multiple challenges.

“The greatest challenge at the start was access to equipment including professional equipment, because it was very expensive. But then I decided that I had to make the sacrifice and get it. I got some assistance and I was also encouraged by my parents after they realised how serious I was about doing music,” the born-again Christian told the Jamaica Observer recently.

Last month DJ Noi won the Best Event DJ of the Year award at the 9th annual Sterling Gospel Music Awards. It was his first nomination and win.

“Really and truly, I was surprised. After collecting the award, some people came to me and said I looked surprised on stage and I told them I was,” said the shy 28-year-old who works in the civil service.

He recalled his growth in music.

“My career in music started around a Compaq brand computer, 2 GB Ram and I was using Virtual DJ. I started out playing CDs and I didn’t have a music library. Now, my skill has been expanded, and my music library has also expanded. The journey from start to where I am now, I am truly grateful for that,” DJ Noi reflected.

With his real name being Jade Francis (Noi is a part of his middle name, which he doesn’t disclose), he is from the community of Comma Pen in St Elizabeth. An only child for his parents, who are Christians, DJ Noi grew up in the church and learnt to play the drums at an early age. He attended Munro College and later The University of the West Indies.

An event DJ, he has played at several gospel events, including Reset in Mandeville, Genesis, Realignment and the recent CeCe Winans More Than This tour in Kingston.

Said DJ Noi: “This journey has been a tricky one. Some days up, and some days down, but I have to remain focused. The goal is to inspire the youths and spread the gospel.”

DJ Noi worships at the Comma Pen Church of God of Prophecy in St Elizabeth and the Church of God of Prophecy on Old Hope Road in Kingston.

— Kevin Jackson