Born | Data not available |
Birthplace | West Midlands, United Kingdom |
Nationality | British (UK) |
Occupation | Songwriter, music producer, arranger, DJ (EDM – trance, house) |
Roland Kieff—professionally known as DJ Roko—is a British EDM artist originally from the West Midlands, now based in Glasgow, Scotland. Diagnosed with dyslexia at age seven and often bullied, he found comfort in music, teaching himself piano and keyboard. By 17 he was DJing locally, building a reputation for energetic sets and crowd-reading instincts.
Early life
Roland Kieff faced early academic and social challenges, being diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age and encountering frequent bullying. He turned to music for solace, teaching himself to play the piano and keyboard. His passion for sound and rhythm became his form of escape and expression, paving the way for his creative career.
Music career
In the mid-1990s, Roko transitioned into songwriting and production, crafting a signature sound that blends nostalgic synth-pop influences like Depeche Mode and Human League with modern EDM titans such as TiĆ«sto, Calvin Harris, and David Guetta. His breakout singles include “Velocity” (Feb 9, 2024), “You Better” (Mar 11, 2024), “Heaven” (Apr 2024), and “By Your Side” (Sept 2024, featuring rapper Novaman). These tracks have earned acclaim for their euphoric synths, melodic piano lines, and feel-good disco-house energy.
Discography
DJ Roko's discography includes a growing body of singles leading up to his debut album "Anthem," set to release on June 13, 2025. His most notable works to date are “Velocity,” “You Better,” “Heaven,” and “By Your Side.” Each single showcases his mastery of uplifting and melodic electronic production.
Personal life
A devoted husband and father, Roland draws significant inspiration from his family. He integrates his personal experiences and emotions into his music, producing tracks that resonate with both dance enthusiasts and emotional listeners. He remains actively engaged with his fanbase via Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Philanthropy
In addition to his musical ventures, DJ Roko is committed to giving back. His upcoming charity single “Eternally” supports Glasgow’s Cash for Kids, helping underprivileged youth in his local community. This initiative reflects his passion for using music as a tool for positive change.