Q&A Employee Spotlight: Kevin Abrokwah

This Black History Month, we're thrilled to feature Kevin, a driving force behind our talent development initiatives at Datadog. Read on to learn more about his passion for music and how creativity fuels his innovative approach to problem-solving.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your role?

A: As a Talent Development Coordinator, my role involves supporting the regular delivery of training programs and learning events that advance Datadog’s performance and strengthen our culture. I execute organization-wide development programs as we rapidly scale, particularly focusing on DEI and manager development. I assist in enabling our company’s People team to deliver more frequent and high-touch learning programs globally. Additionally, my role entails collaboration and partnership with stakeholders across the business to ensure we execute and optimize our programs to meet the unique needs of all participants.

Q: Can you share a bit about your artistic journey?

A: Music has always been a significant part of my life. I've played viola with heavy influences from classic composers such as Vivaldi and Tchaikovsky. I've also played piano and guitar, drawing inspiration from spiritual hymns and contemporary Christian music rooted in my faith background. My newest and most enjoyable artistic adventure is being a DJ! Many of the skills acquired from playing instruments have facilitated this transition to DJing, making it much easier than I anticipated. Understanding phrasing using beats and bars, syncing keys of different songs, and feeling the energy of the room all contribute to the excitement I experience while DJing. Music transcends cultural and language barriers, bringing people together, especially in times of celebration. It adds to the joy of the moment and elevates the experience of those being celebrated. Personally, music has always provided me with an avenue to immerse myself in a different world and learn something new using a different set of creative mental skills I don't often get the opportunity to tap into. DJing breathes energy into my day-to-day life, especially as I connect with those for whom I perform.

Q: How do you see the connection between art, creativity, and innovation in your role, and how has it influenced your approach to problem-solving?

A: Creating art requires innovation! While there can be many influences on what constitutes art, the ability to make it unique with simple changes along the way is what defines it. When I prepare to DJ, I strive to find connections in the music to create something unique. Utilizing song key, speed (BPM), wordplay, bass, and other digital tools, I can craft an entirely new flow for a popular song that perhaps no other DJ has attempted. I apply the same approach in my work by seeking alternative methods to achieve tasks, aiming for greater efficiency. Sometimes, it's a small change that truly makes a difference in reaching a solution with impact.

Q: Are there specific artists, historical figures, or cultural influences that inspire your work or art, and how do you incorporate those inspirations into your projects?

A: When I think of my preferred genre of DJing, I always draw inspiration from my West African roots, particularly Ghana, where Afrobeat, Afrobeats, and Highlife dominate, with the iconic band leader Fela Kuti pioneering Afrobeat. I'm also influenced by the South African music scene, especially Amapiano, now gaining popularity in the U.S. I incorporate these influences into my work by finding synergy between other genres and the drum and bass of West African music. This approach results in unique mixes and provides more exposure to both types of music.

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