Kidding around: Kid Kenobi plays Geelong this weekend.
ERIN PEARSON
HE’S visited some of the world’s most amazing places and DJed atop the greatest festival stages but nothing beats a smile from his precious baby girl for doting dad Kid Kenobi.
A dance music veteran of close to 20 years, Kenobi, also known as Jesse Desenberg, took time out from his hectic schedule to chat to the Independent about his life, love and nine-month-old daughter Ayanna.
He said the transition from world stage to dirty nappies was a “blessing in disguise”.
The experience was not only grounding, it made his music more “meaningful”.
“Music’s always been a main priority in my life, what I wanted to do, my purpose,” Kenobi said.
“Now when I go to the studio I get tingles of guilt wondering whether I’ll get to see my daughter tonight.
“Most of my life, as far as DJing goes, I’ve always travelled on weekends and never thought about it; going to another state and another country and partying all the time.
“Fatherhood puts everything in perspective.”
Kenobi considered 2011 the most intense year of his life, with major changes at every turn.
He finished working with his manager of 10 years and became a father, all within three months.
“Having a new family and becoming grounded has helped focus me and keep me sustained. I’ve never had routine in my life,” Kenobi said.
“It’s ironic that people think having a family will detract from a career but for me it refined everything.
“Now because I’m my own manager I’m making all these decisions on my own.
“This is awesome.”
Kenobi observed he’d just about done it all in dance music, from being named Australia’s favourite DJ a record three times to an itinerary reading like a Lonely Planet guidebook to the best nightclubs around the world.
But despite the accolades and achievements, he was keen to maintain his hectic lifestyle.
“I know where my priorities lie now and understand how the industry works. I’ve started other things outside DJing like my music label and have been dabbling in new parts of music.
“I’m feeling really positive – bring on 2012.”
Kenobi will travel to Geelong with his latest EP, The Base Music, before launching new single Hotel Party with brother Miles just prior to Christmas.
Kid Kenobi plays Home House this Saturday.
