DJ, Runner, Fundraiser, Legend – Meet Mat Ewing!
From smashing out Set for Love DJ sets across birthdays, weddings, and Ibiza-themed parties to taking on the London Marathon in full fundraising stride, Mat Ewing is living proof of what it means to turn passion into purpose.
Set for Love is our global fundraising initiative that invites DJs of all levels to play sets in person or online to raise funds for LNADJ’s life-changing projects — and Mat’s been a shining star in the movement.
What started with an online stream during lockdown has become a powerful personal mission — using music, movement and good vibes to help Last Night A DJ Saved My Life change lives and save lives. In this heartwarming and motivating interview, Mat shares his journey with LNADJ, the record that lifts his spirits, how he trained for a marathon (hint: it includes good tunes), and why giving back through DJing is the most fulfilling gig of all. To date Mat has raised over £5000 for our charity so we couldn’t wait to catch up with him to learn more about why he’s become such a BRILLIANT and committed fundraiser.
Can you tell us about one record that changed or saved your life?
“There are so many but Eric Prydz – “Slammin” is always one that reminds me of the early days of getting into Djing and where it has led me to now! I know everytime I listen to that track it instantly lifts and puts me in a good mood!”
Why did you get involved with LNADJ in the first place?
“Took part in the Set For Love Online global stream during the covid pandemic and the journey started there! The online event brought the world back together via the power of music and helped me in more ways than i realised.”
Why is our organisation important to you?
“The work that LNADJ do is phenomenal, being a part of fundraising for this great charity is not only my opportunity to give something back, but gives me a goal & focus which helps me mentally. I love the friendliness and determination of the charity and watching it dive into so many different aspects and projects which keeps it rolling!”
Do you have a personal connection to our mission or our project Get Equipped?
“Knowing any fundraising I have done helps aid the future development of a person or groups is very rewarding. I still have some of my original kit from over 23 years ago and therefore it is essential to start somewhere and have the equipment that you need to achieve this.”
This year you have been playing Set for Love’s to help support us, you also took on the London Marathon a few years back to help change lives and save lives! What motivated you to these epic adventures on?
“I have always loved being involved in live gigs and sets. The Set For Love Live series that i have become involved in allows me to focus that energy and drive to fundraise whilst also enjoying the buzz for live sets. Entertaining people and giving them what they want is aided even more by the idea of giving back to the charity.”
How did you prepare for the London Marathon and what advice do you have for someone else thinking of taking on a gruelling physical challenge?
“Good tunes and a good coach! I was very lucky to have access to my coach one to one who is a mate! Find people that motivate and encourage you and take your time to build up the momentum towards such a challenge. My advice is also get that fundraising going in any fashion you can think of. I did all sorts of gigs and events to bring in the dosh and every time the total went up is motivated me further to both the start and finish line!”
How have the Set for Love’s been going this year? Have you shared with people what you’re doing and why? What has the response been?
“So far I have played in 3 Sets For Loves – A 30th Birthday at a pub function room, a wedding at a very nice Norfolk hotel and an Ibiza Themed dance party at a social club! All of them have been brilliant and I have been able to share the events on social media and recording the sets for play back. Its been a nice way to give something else to the clients and a good memory. The response has been fantastic and opened the door to at least 3 more gigs this year. Follow on Mat Ewing DJ on Instagram.”
“In addition – Fundraising for a charity is always a challenging task, it’s not easy getting people’s money at a time when people have less to give. LNADJ lets me live out my lifelong hobby of playing music I love and knowing that it is going to a great cause. I know that it wont stop here and that the challenges and goals will continue to flow for many years to come. Thank you to LNADJ for the opportunity and what it gives back to me being involved.”
