IN THE face of losing the legendary disc jockey two years ago, DJ Miller’s legacy lives on, his presence is still felt by fans who continue to appreciate the discography he left behind, and the music industry at large, which continues to feel his impact.
On the morning of April 5, 2020, news of the death of Virgil Karuranga, known by his stage name DJ Miller, made its way across the country, leaving a sense of disbelief which turned to grief as the news began to sink in.
Today, almost all pubs and shows in the country still play some of the tracks produced by Miller. During his celebration of six years in music last weekend, DJ Toxxyk, who was a good friend of Miller and colleague in the Dream Team DJ’s, played a track on his new EP dubbed ‘ADA’ that features DJ Miller.
It comes after the release of an unfinished album which was launched on December 4, 2022, about eight months after he was put to rest. The 10-track album featured some of Rwanda’s best musicians like Riderman, DJ Pius, Mike Kayihura, Uncle Austin, Peace Jolis to mention a few, and it is still being played all over the country.
Tributes pour in
"Miller inspired us all, he was one of the best hip-hop DJs this country ever had,” said DJ Pyfo, adding, "We were not too close, but every time we met we used to complement each other. His legacy will live on in the history of Rwandan music.”
To Bruce Intore, a good friend and business partner of DJ Miller, his death was not just a blow to family and friends, but the whole country.
"Anyone who worked with Miller or had a chance to talk to him knows how he was a welcoming and humble guy. In terms of music, he is one of the first DJs that won the attention of many music lovers in Rwanda,” he said.
Intore, who is best known for organising big events in Rwanda, also revealed that he is planning a show in honour of DJ Miller’s life which is expected to take place in May this year.
Talking to this publication, Teta Akaliza, who was a big fan of the DJ, noted that Miller’s disc jockeying skills made everyone move, and his contribution to the partying life of Kigali will live forever.
"I remember his sessions at Bougainvilla Bar or Sundays at Bel Air. He made us taste good music. He will always be remembered for his contribution in this sector,” she added.
To DJ Toxxyk, one of the most celebrated disc jockeys in Kigali at the moment, DJ Miller was an inspiration to many emerging musicians in Rwanda, and his projects will live forever.
"Miller was my brother and I do what I do mostly because of his support. You cannot talk about disc jockeying in Rwanda without mentioning his name,” said Toxxyk.
"We will make sure that his name lives forever,” he added.
Kevin Klein, a fast-rising producer and DJ, also described Miller’s life as an inspiration to the next generation in music.
The upcoming producer indicated that Miller taught everyone around him love which is something that everyone in this sector needs to progress. "His legacy will live on forever!’ he added.