In our quest to bring you a behind-the-scenes look at those who “make the magic happen,” the latest installment of That Grape Juice‘s ‘Meets The Makers’ spotlights Michael Amusan – co-founder of the trailblazing live entertainment juggernaut DLT (Days Like This).

With the platform’s much-buzzed-about new festival The Recipe set to blaze London’s Gunnersbury Park on July 6, That Grape Juice sat down with Amusan to discuss the extravaganza, headliner Jazmine Sullivan, the DLT journey, and much more.

Check out our chat below…

That Grape Juice: You are blazing such an incredible trail with DLT. For those who don’t know, tell a little about how this amazing platform came to be.

Michael Amusan: In 2016, three of us were living in New York, where we enjoyed day parties and brunches that felt tailored to our community.

These events were not only fun but also a great way to connect with diverse individuals within the Black community. It was more than just partying; it was about meeting like-minded people and enjoying fantastic music, food, and culture.

When we returned to London, we noticed a lack of similar experiences, particularly events that combined food, music, and community during the day. This led us to start DLT Brunch in a small bar on Old Kent Road which had 300 attendees. Our event quickly gained popularity, and our brand expanded. Since then, we have hosted events worldwide, including in Lagos, Accra, Paris, Amsterdam, New York, and Toronto.

That Grape Juice: The Recipe is such a great concept, fusing music, food, amusement rides and so much more. What inspired the concept?

Michael Amusan: We as a team have always been about elevated experiences, so when the idea of doing a festival was discussed as a team. We said “how can we make this more than your typical festival?” Our brand ethos has been good music, good food, and good vibes, so we took those three key messages and imagined what that would look like on a larger scale. This was how The Recipe was birthed.

That Grape Juice: When piecing together the lineup for such a spectacle, what goes into your process?

Michael Amusan: One of our co-founders, Anthony, attended the Root’s Picnic in Philadelphia and was blown away by Jazmine Sullivan’s live performance. Our team is passionate about R&B, and when considering a headliner for our event, Jazmine was the perfect choice.

She hasn’t performed here in 10 years, making her return even more special. SiR and Destin Conrad, who have previously dazzled our audience at DLT Malta, are back by popular demand.

Ambre and Tone Stith will be making their UK debut, adding fresh excitement to the lineup. Alex Isley, a legend in her own right, and Shae, one of the UK’s finest R&B singers, round out a stellar roster. The synergy of these artists felt just right for our event.

That Grape Juice: What is the recipe for the perfect festival experience and how will The Recipe deliver on this?

Michael Amusan: Good Music, Good Food, Community, and Good vibes! We have had these elements in mind every step of the way when planning, so these themes are woven into the DJs, food vendors, artists, and activities people will experience on the day.

That Grape Juice: We’re all about the music at That Grape Juice. With Jazmine Sullivan headlining, what are your top three tracks you’re most excited to see her perform at The Recipe?

Michael Amusan: Lions Tigers and Bears, Girl Like Me, Insecure!

That Grape Juice: What’s next for DLT?

Michael Amusan: We want to continue to elevate experiences for our community and expand globally. The Recipe, we hope, is here to stay for a very long time and will become a staple festival in the London summer calendar.

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Tickets for DLT’s The Recipe Are Available Via Live Nation

Performers Include: Jazmine Sullivan, SiR, Alex Isley, Tone Stith, & Destin Conrad

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