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South Africa DJ Ace has cultivated a significant career in radio broadcasting, having spent over two decades championing R&B music and artists, and recently transitioned to new radio platforms.
DJ Ace spent 21 years at BBC Radio 1Xtra, hosting various shows including Weekend Breakfast, 1Xtra's Live Lounge, and the flagship R&B program. He interviewed numerous A-list artists and championed new R&B talent. He also co-hosted a special '1Xtra Talks' on Blackout Tuesday.
Following his departure from BBC Radio 1Xtra, DJ Ace transitioned to Kiss FM.
After leaving 1Xtra, Ace also joined Kisstory R&B.
Ace received the Broadcasters Press Guild Award in 2021 alongside Seani B for their broadcasting work.
DJ Ace brought his 'Everything R&B' platform to Austin, Texas for SXSW 2023, showcasing domestic R&B acts.
DJ Ace launched the 'Everything R&B Live Project' with BBC Radio 1Xtra to support unsigned UK R&B artists in developing their knowledge and connections within the live music industry.
Ace worked closely with BBC Blast, participating in tour events to provide young people with insights into careers in radio.
Ashley Asomani, known professionally as DJ Ace, commenced his extensive radio career when he joined BBC Radio 1Xtra in 2002. During his tenure of over two decades, he hosted various programs including Weekend Breakfast and 1Xtra’s Live Lounge. His work involved interviewing prominent musical artists such as Alicia Keys, Akon, Usher, Lizzo, and John Legend. Beyond his role as a presenter, Ace established himself as a dedicated advocate for R&B music, particularly focusing on providing a platform for emerging artists within the genre. He collaborated with Vis (Duane Jones) early in his career, winning a Sony Radio Academy Award in 2004 for their lunchtime show, which covered genres like garage and hip-hop. He later received his own daytime show on BBC Radio 1Xtra in January 2017.
Ace’s influence extended beyond music programming, as he utilized his radio platform to participate in significant cultural discussions and raise awareness for important causes. In 2020, following the death of George Floyd, he co-hosted a two-hour BBC 1Xtra Talks special on Blackout Tuesday with Seani B, addressing the sentiments of the Black community in the UK. Concurrently, Ace publicly shared his personal health challenges after being diagnosed with kidney failure in 2018. Following a kidney transplant in 2021 after a three-year search, he became an active proponent for organ donation, particularly within Black and Asian communities, using his platform to highlight the critical need for donors from these backgrounds. His career progression highlights a commitment to both music and social responsibility.
After 21 years at BBC Radio 1Xtra, Ace concluded his time there in January 2024, having broadcast approximately 10,000 hours on air. He subsequently transitioned to Kiss FM and Kisstory R&B, maintaining his focus on R&B music. His impact on artists has been noted; Mahalia, a ‘Simmer’ hitmaker, credited Ace for his early support in her career. Furthermore, Ace integrated his personal interests into his professional life, interviewing WWE legends such as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels, and British wrestling star Pete Dunne. In October 2024, he was recognized with the Freedom of the City of London award, acknowledging his contributions.
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