Darren Joseph

Darren Joseph, also known as DJ Target, is an influential British DJ, presenter, author, and entrepreneur whose dynamic presence has profoundly shaped British music and broadcasting. Darren is best recognised as a founding member of the iconic grime collective Roll Deep, a group pivotal in propelling grime music from East London's underground to global recognition. His ability to captivate audiences through storytelling makes him a sought-after keynote speaker, particularly acclaimed for his insights on cultural evolution and innovation in the music industry.

Darren's journey began within the grassroots music scene of East London, where he co-founded Roll Deep alongside prominent artists Skepta and Flowdan. During the formative years of grime music in the early 2000s, Darren honed his talent not only as a musician but also as a cultural ambassador, meticulously documenting this period in his influential book,‘Grime Kids’. His authentic experiences provide a unique narrative of urban British life, earning him respect across the industry and enabling him to connect deeply with diverse audiences.

Throughout his career, Darren has achieved remarkable milestones, enhancing his credibility as an industry leader. In 2023, his critically acclaimed book Grime Kids was successfully adapted into a popular five-part BBC drama, amplifying his profile as a cultural commentator. He has fronted various notable media projects, including hosting the BBC Three series ‘Tonight with Target’ and the BAFTA-nominated show ‘Rap Game’. Darren also served in a senior media role as Talent and Music Lead at BBC Radio 1Xtra from July 2018 until June 2021, significantly influencing British media culture.

Darren's compelling narratives on topics such as British urban music culture, media representation, and diversity and inclusion resonate powerfully with audiences. His entrepreneurial insights, particularly around innovation and brand development exemplified by his venture, Eden’s Bloom, a preservative-free baby food brand, offer invaluable perspectives to organisations. Darren Joseph's authenticity, combined with his significant cultural contributions, makes him an ideal speaker for events seeking meaningful dialogue on contemporary societal issues.