By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste
Andre ‘DJ Puffy’ Parris has arguably become one of the brightest beacons of talent, tenacity and Caribbean pride to be discovered in Barbados. In the ever-evolving world of music, where originality and authenticity are often rare treasures, Parris has gone from the music scenes in Barbados to the stages of the world’s most prestigious music festivals and has redefined what it means to be a global artist with deep cultural roots.
The Birth of a Trailblazer
Born in 1991 to a family of musicians, DJ Puffy’s life seemed to be destined to follow a melodic path. Surrounded by rhythm and inspired by his musically gifted family, he quickly found himself immersed in beats, bars, and turntables. What started as a teen obsession soon developed and evolved into a career-defining journey. This journey began in 2009 when he was discovered by Dream Real Projects’ CEO, Matthew ‘Fewwture’ Ashby. Under Ashby’s mentorship, Puffy’s journey took flight, and he began crafting a sound that fused EDM energy with Caribbean soul; a blend that would later earn him global reverence.
Crowning Glory
Puffy’s big break came in 2016 when, as a wildcard entrant, he stunned the international DJ circuit by winning the Red Bull 3Style World Championship in Santiago, Chile. Armed with a genre-defying setlist, unparallel technical skill and an electrifying stage presence, he wowed a panel of legendary judges that included DJ Jazzy Jeff, Z-Trip, Craze, Nu- Mark and Scratch Bastid. That night, the world met a cultural force.
Building Legacy
Since his ground-breaking win, DJ Puffy has performed on stages across the globe, from North America and the Caribbean to Asia and Central America. His status as a Pioneer Ambassador, Serato Artist, Vibe 105 24DJs winner and YouTube Partner further solidified his place at the apex of DJ culture. Puffy has become a symbol of what’s possible when Caribbean creativity is given the platform that it deserves.
Barbados’ Newest Tourism and Cultural Ambassador
More recently, Puffy was recently announced as Barbados’ newest Tourism Ambassador by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. and the National Cultural Foundation. This partnership marks a new era in destination marketing and will leverage Puffy’s international appeal to connect with a younger, global audience.
“The opportunity to represent your country is something many only dream of. Nearly a decade ago, I had the honour of doing just that and winning on the world stage. Since then, the motivation, mindset, and mission to uplift have never left me. In fact, the desire has only grown. The bigger the stage, the stronger the drive. I’m incredibly proud to be officially recognized as a Barbados Tourism and Culture Ambassador. Barbados isn’t just where I’m from—it’s my sanctuary. A place of joy, culture, rejuvenation, humility, love, pride, and relentless spirit. Sharing that with the world isn’t just a goal—it’s part of who I am,” said DJ Puffy.
In DJ Puffy, Barbados found a global rhythm-maker, a cultural custodian and a visionary ready to remix the future.
