For over a decade, Rushan Mendis has been a trailblazer in Sri Lanka’s music scene, carving out a name as one of the country’s most sought-after DJs. A self-taught artist with an undeniable passion for sound, he has captivated audiences with his electrifying beats and genre-defying sets. Now, as the owner of his own company, Rushan continues to push boundaries, shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s electronic music industry with his signature style and entrepreneurial vision.

What inspired you to become a DJ and how did your journey in the music industry begin?

My biggest inspiration to get into this career was one of my closest friends, who was a DJ. He took me with him for his events as backup, as I was very passionate about learning the skills and technique to become a DJ and work in the musical industry. He taught me the basics and got me the contacts needed, allowing me to reach out to people and start my career.

As a self-taught DJ, what were the biggest challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?

I faced countless ups and downs along this journey, as this is a rollercoaster industry which evolves day by day. One of the main challenges is that I’m a very shy person. From live interactions to meeting new people and discussing every detail with them to get their ideas and share mine, DJing has made me experience it all through my beat matching skills. 

Trying out new genres on my own, researching, and finding how each music style works in Sri Lanka, as well as which event and genre would work best has been a real challenge. 

Looking back on your 10-year journey, what are some of the key lessons you have learnt?

With a career that keeps pushing me to dive into various challenges, taking each event I perform at as a different lesson, I have learnt to grow my skills in understanding the crowd’s entertainment mindset as well as fulfilling my client requests with their favourites in my playlists. 

What I have also learnt is that every event and crowd is different. This has taught me how to be flexible and put out a perfect mixing for every person to enjoy. 

What led you to establish Rush Delo and what is the brand’s core mission?

Rush Delo is actually my stage name, which I brought up along with my real name. This is something easy for the crowd to remember. It has also brought me many proud moments at certain events to see my name on the big screen. 

The main mission is to become successful as a top artist and to be recognised, just as some of my role models. Building my dreams slowly has been my mission throughout. 

How would you describe your signature style and what makes your sound unique?

I have tried different genres as an open format DJ with more passion for progressive style, playing at many progressive events and sharing unique reels with my followers on social media.

How has Sri Lanka’s DJ scene changed over the years and where do you see it heading?

As a DJ in the industry for the past 10 years since 2014, I have performed at various events along with other DJs as well. The scene has changed drastically, with many new DJs emerging and displaying their talents at global DJ events and shows, taking our Sri Lankan DJ community worldwide. 

What were the biggest challenges in transitioning from a DJ to an entrepreneur? How do you balance both roles?

Starting off with a small set up and joining Press Play Entertainment Ltd. as a DJ and now kicking off an event management company named Elite Entertainment has been a dream come true – a journey with many challenges and outcomes. 

Moving from setting up an event to playing in front of thousands of people and keeping them entertained has always been a pleasure. 

I would also like to take a moment to thank the people who have been there for me on this journey – my parents and most of my friends. 

What has been the most memorable gig or event in your career so far?

The Agastra Monsoon Party was one of the most memorable events I enjoyed performing at. 

What advice would you give to young DJs who want to make a name for themselves?

Show your talents in all genres and try music-related activities. Show up at every opportunity you receive to get your name out at events. Finally, stay updated with trendsetters.

What is next for you and Rush Delo? Any exciting projects or collaborations in the pipeline?

We have something big coming up soon in the form of a collaboration with some new DJs.