DJ Katapila, a Ghanaian artist known for his unique style that combined electronic dance music with traditional Ghanaian rhythms, has passed away from a brief illness. His real name was Ishmael Abbey. The news was confirmed by Awesome Tapes From Africa (ATFA), the label that he worked with closely.
Abbey started DJing at the young age of 15, influenced by late 1980s house music, Detroit techno, and traditional Ga music from his home in Accra. One of his signature moves as a DJ was to talk in Twi and Ga during his sets, as well as tapping along to his mixes with an electronic drum pad.
Abbey’s artist name, DJ Katapila, was based on a nickname he was given that referenced the construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar. To him, it symbolized his hard-working nature. In his mid-30s, he started experimenting with music production after a friend installed a free trial version of FruityLoops, a popular music production software, on his computer.
ATFA founder Brian Shimkovitz discovered Abbey’s work and signed him to the label. DJ Katapila was able to reissue his debut album ‘Trotro’ as well as tour Europe. His final release was the EP ‘Techno Africa’ via Tash LC’s Club Yeke in 2022.
Many people appreciated DJ Katapila’s friendly and calm nature. Shimkovitz shared fond memories of their travels together, although the work wasn’t always easy or stress-free. Abbey was always there to lend a helping hand. He was one of Shimkovitz’s biggest supporters and encouraged him along the way. DJ Katapila’s music was innovative and had a lasting impact. His legacy will continue to inspire many people in the African music scene
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