Music has always been more than just a hobby for Tom Karnovski. It is the very essence of who he is. Growing up, his family home was alive every evening with sounds from a towering 4-stacked hi-fi system in the living room. From the soulful grooves of Barry White to the timeless melodies of Stevie Wonder and the vibrant pulse of early disco music, there was not a day without music playing in the background.
Reflecting on those formative years, Tom Karnovski says that you do not really realize how those small things shape you until much later. It was this musical environment that planted the seed for his lifelong passion, a passion that has taken him from a teenage vinyl enthusiast to one of Dubai’s most celebrated DJs.
A Brother’s Influence: The Early Days of Musical Experimentation
Tom Karnovski’s path into music was not walked alone. His older brother, who is also a DJ, played a huge role in sparking and nurturing his love for music. Tom Karnovski says honestly that if it was not for his older brother, he would not be where he is today. The two brothers spent countless hours after school experimenting with records and mixing sounds. While other kids were playing outside or glued to video games, Tom Karnovski was already diving deep into the world of vinyl at just 13 years old.
This early exposure gave him a unique edge and an intimate connection with music that has stayed with him throughout his career.
Balancing Act: From City Banker to Weekend DJ
Before music became Tom Karnovski’s full-time career, he led a double life balancing a conventional job with his passion. During the week, he worked in the City of London at a small bank, but come the weekend, he transformed into a DJ, playing at radio shows, parties, and clubs.
Tom Karnovski recalls that it was never easy, but he always found a way to play music. The hustle of juggling a 9 to 5 with his weekend gigs laid the foundation for his perseverance and dedication. Still, Tom Karnovski knew that music was more than a side gig; it was his future.
Dubai Dreams: Starting Fresh in a New City
Everything changed in 2017 when Tom Karnovski made the bold decision to move to Dubai. Arriving in a new city without knowing anyone, he faced the challenge of building a network from scratch. But fate stepped in quickly. A friend visiting from Las Vegas introduced him to the owners of the famous Mahiki nightclub. What was supposed to be a 30-minute set turned into a three-hour residency, launching Tom Karnovski’s career in Dubai’s bustling nightlife scene.
Tom Karnovski admits that the hardest part was getting people to know who he was and what he could do. He says that in any industry, your network is your net worth.
Sharing the Stage with Legends
Since that first big break, Tom Karnovski’s career has soared. He has had the privilege to play alongside some of the music world’s most legendary names, including Fatboy Slim, MK, Sonny Fodera, Clean Bandit, and Dizzee Rascal. These experiences have not only boosted his profile but also pushed him creatively, helping him grow as an artist.
In addition to these incredible collaborations, Tom Karnovski has performed at some of Dubai’s largest and most iconic events, further solidifying his place in the city’s nightlife culture.
Family First: The True Measure of Success
Despite his growing fame and musical achievements, Tom Karnovski’s greatest pride comes from his family. He says warmly that his children are his biggest achievement. Like their father, his kids have inherited a love for music, making Tom Karnovski’s journey all the more meaningful.
Sharing his passion with his children and watching them embrace music is a joy that goes beyond any club or stage.
Building a Brand: Residencies and Partnerships
Tom Karnovski has carefully curated his career by aligning himself with brands and venues that match his musical style. He holds residencies at well-known Dubai hotspots such as Be Beach, Nikki Beach, Bar Du Port, FRSH, and Club Iris. For Tom Karnovski, playing for brands he believes in is key to his artistic growth.
He advises aspiring DJs that if you believe in the brands you play for, you will grow into the artist you want to be.
Lessons Learned: Kindness and Collaboration
One of the most valuable lessons Tom Karnovski has learned throughout his career is the importance of being a good person. He says simply that helping other artists means they will look after you. Tom Karnovski credits much of his success to the support and opportunities given by others and believes in giving back to the community of artists around him.
This spirit of collaboration and kindness has helped Tom Karnovski not only build a successful career but also earn respect within the industry.
Why Dubai Feels Like Home
After eight years in Dubai, Tom Karnovski now calls the city home. He appreciates the unique opportunities it offers playing music he loves for a living, traveling the world, and raising a family in a vibrant, dynamic environment.
Tom Karnovski says that there are not many places like Dubai. It has given him so much.
While he humbly does not see himself as a hero or trailblazer, he hopes to be remembered as part of the rich tapestry that makes up Dubai’s nightlife culture. He reflects that he is sure he will be in someone’s story along the way.
Words of Wisdom: Take Risks and Build Connections
For those dreaming of following a similar path, Tom Karnovski’s advice is clear and heartfelt: take risks and do not be afraid to network. He says that he came to Dubai not knowing anyone, but after eight years, it is his home where he brings up his family.
His story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest leaps lead to the most rewarding journeys. Tom Karnovski encourages others to be brave and open to new opportunities, because you never know what is around the corner.
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