Eddie Tuala, better known by his stage name as DJ 651, is one of the performers at the first Seki Festival at Taumeasina Island Resort.

The 33-year-old from Leauvaa and Faleula took time out to share his journey to become a DJ in an interview with the Samoa Observer. 

Eddie was born and raised in a family that loved music. He recalled his family having a band called "Young lovers" back in the 80s when he was only a little boy. 

It was the exposure to music his family provided for him that motivated him on his journey and passion in music. 

At the age of 15, he said, his love for music grew and his passion to become a DJ started.

"Just watching other DJs like DJ Peter Gunz, DJ Smooth and others from New Zealand and Australia made me want to become better at what I do,” he said. 

For him, the most challenging part about his job is having to spend less time with his family because of work travels. 

“Most of the time I spend on my work and less with my kids, I always miss my family that is the hard part,” he said.

"Being part of the Seki Festival is a great opportunity just to give back to the people of Samoa because at the end of the day we are all from Samoa."

He advises local talents to keep doing what they love and try and overcome all negativity. 

"I have seen awesome talent so far, the singer, dancer and rappers. I just want to say to them keep going forward and over come negativity and use technology well for their music."