Esa announced as Phonox’s new Saturday night resident

The South African DJ will take over Saturday nights at the Brixton club from 6 October.

Esa has been revealed as the incoming resident of London club Phonox. The DJ and producer – real name Esa Williams – was born in South Africa, but came to prominence on Glasgow’s underground scene, where he was co-creator of the party and record label Highlife alongside Auntie Flo. Some may also know Esa as the band leader for Awesome Tapes from Africa affiliate Ata Kak.

Now based in London, the residency cements Esa’s place in London’s dance underground. Every Saturday, he’ll take over the Brixton club all night long, giving free rein to his wide-reaching, global influenced sets. Esa follows the likes of Jasper James and, most recently, HAAi as a Phonox’s Saturday resident. Anticipating the new gig, Esa said, As my residency at Phonox in Brixton draws closer and closer I’m filled with so much excitement and after a very busy summer with many memorable moments I look forward to sharing some of these experiences as I start preparing my six hour musical journeys.

This opportunity to build and create a story weekly is something I’ve never envisaged, but I now have the chance to really showcase my passion and skills, connect with people in an intimate environment and work alongside some talented DJ’s/musicians and the Phonox family.” 

To celebrate the new chapter for both Esa and Phonox, the club will be releasing a series of short films in the run up to his residency. Each film will concentrate on key periods in Esa’s life, from Cape Town to Glasgow and and finally to London. Watch the video below.

You can purchase tickets for Esa’s opening night, and for subsequent Saturdays, here.