From Kochi to Dubai: Karan Joseph’s Unstoppable Musical Journey
Karan Joseph, widely known by his real name rather than a stage alias, is not just another name behind the turntables—he’s a story of grit, rhythm, passion, and perseverance. From his humble beginnings in Kochi to becoming one of Dubai’s busiest commercial DJs, his musical journey is one that inspires anyone chasing dreams in the creative world.
Starting Small, Dreaming Big
It all began in 2006-07 at the scenic Taj Malabar in Kochi, Kerala, where a young Karan was playing the keyboard with his band. He had never imagined that a casual opportunity to DJ at a wedding would become a life-changing moment. At the time, he was using DJ software for fun, just dabbling in it. But when a chance came up during a wedding performance, he took the plunge.
His father, Joseph Degaulle, a passionate percussionist and music coach, supported him by buying his first digital DJ controller. Backed by a musical family and knowledge in production, sheet music reading, and mastering, Karan seamlessly transitioned into DJing. His first commercial gig turned out to be a hit.
Not long after, he was offered a major opportunity—to headline the New Year’s Eve 2007 event at the same hotel. Performing in front of a diverse crowd of international guests, the journey of Karan Joseph as a DJ had officially begun. That night marked the beginning of something powerful.
A Musical Legacy That Runs in the Blood
Karan’s success is deeply tied to his roots. His father, Joseph Degaulle, is not only his biggest inspiration but also someone who continues to perform actively in Kochi at the age of 67. Growing up in a musical household gave Karan the foundation and discipline required to navigate the industry.
He completed his Piano certification from Trinity College of Music, London, and began performing not just in Kochi but across Kerala and India. From 2006 to 2010, he built his brand locally and then took his sounds to international platforms. During this period, he also began mentoring aspiring DJs, sharing his knowledge and passion for music—something he still continues today.
From Local Gigs to Global Festivals
Karan’s dreams began to take shape when he got a chance to perform at the God’s Own Music Festival in 2011, thanks to DJ Savyo, his mentor. That stage was not just about beats; it was a declaration that Karan Joseph had arrived.
Since then, his resume has been packed with notable events, including:
- Official DJ for Mercedes Benz Annual Awards 2022, held at 3BK, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa.
- Sound designer and DJ for the prestigious Global Justice, Love, and Peace Summit 2025.
- Featured on HitFM 96.7, a major recognition in the UAE music industry.
Each performance was not just a gig—it was an emotion, a story, and a leap forward in his career.
The Grind Behind the Glamour
While today Karan is celebrated in Dubai’s music scene, the journey was far from easy. In the early days, even owning basic DJ gear was a challenge. Professional equipment can cost upwards of AED 35,000, a steep price for someone starting out. Initially, he worked with low-budget controllers, pushing their limits with creativity.
Getting paid for gigs was another struggle. Organizers often delayed payments, which was mentally and financially exhausting. Over time, Karan learned the business side of the industry. Today, he uses legal agreements, contracts, and event planning strategies to secure his income and value.
Dubai’s event scene also runs in seasons. During off-seasons, income can be inconsistent, but Karan has managed to stay afloat with resilience, planning, and faith. “By God’s grace, things go well,” he shares humbly.
A Day in the Life of Karan Joseph
On a typical in-season day, you might find Karan doing 2-3 events—back-to-back. His energy and passion seem endless. Whether it’s a nightclub set, a private event, or a luxury hotel party, he brings the same fire to every performance.
His sets are not just about music; they’re emotional journeys. “Most of my sets are love-themed. I’ve seen people cry while dancing. Music hits different when it connects,” says Karan. These heartfelt experiences make his performances memorable.
He’s also known for crafting new remixes, mashups, and unique sounds that keep Dubai’s nightlife buzzing. He works with top event management companies and is actively looking to collaborate with more, both within and outside the UAE.
Giving Back: Mentorship and Community
Karan believes in building a supportive ecosystem for artists. Through his DJ mentorship programs, he teaches young DJs everything from technical skills to the realities of the business. He regularly shares his work on social media, encourages others to network, and urges artists to attend and support local shows.
“Support your local artists. Go for their events. They will support you back,” he advises.
This sense of community is part of what keeps him grounded despite the flashy lifestyle that often comes with DJing.
Current Projects and What’s Next
2025 has already been a big year for Karan, especially with his role in the Global Justice, Love, and Peace Summit. He’s working on fresh music, collaborating with producers, and fine-tuning his sound to break into bigger markets.
He is also in talks with more event and artist management firms to expand his global presence. His ultimate dream? To bring love-themed music experiences to international stages while representing the UAE music scene proudly.
He’s exploring newer platforms to share his DJ sets and build an even stronger online presence. With the digital era in full swing, content creation and music streaming are at the center of his growth plans.
Words of Wisdom from Karan Joseph
Karan has a message for every aspiring DJ and creative out there:
“Work hard. Stay focused. There will be ups and downs. Don’t give up—you’ll reach places. Never blindly believe anyone. Learn the business. Learn to protect your work.”
His advice is rooted in experience, and every line comes with a story behind it. Whether it’s a delayed payment, a botched gig, or a last-minute cancellation—he’s seen it all and still risen above.
Final Thoughts: A Beat-Driven Life with Purpose
Karan Joseph is not just a DJ; he’s a storyteller, mentor, producer, and above all, a dreamer who made his mark by turning moments into memories.
His journey from Kochi’s Taj Malabar to headlining events at the Burj
Follow DJ Kliff’s journey on Instagram: @karanjcliff
Keep an eye out for his upcoming shows, releases, and behind-the-scenes moments that will keep inspiring artists around the world.
