Randy “R Dub!” Williams, a late-night “slow jams” DJ from San Diego, also known as “the Sultan of Slowjamastan,” embarked on a unique endeavor after running out of countries to visit. His lifelong goal was to explore every country globally, and with just one UN-recognized nation left to check off his list, he decided to take an extraordinary step. Williams purchased an 11.07-acre plot of arid land in the California desert, where he established his own “country” named after his radio show.
The Sultan of Slowjamastan officially declared independence from the United States of America on December 1, 2021, broadcasting the secession live from his open-air government “office” in Dublândia, the capital of the Republic of Slowjamastan. Over the past two years, Slowjamastan has evolved beyond a mere whimsical concept, developing into a fledgling nation-state with its own set of laws, passports, currency (“the duble”), and even a national anthem. With over 500 registered citizens and more awaiting approval, Williams aims to turn Slowjamastan into the world’s leading micronation.
Williams, also known as the Sultan, shared his inspiration for creating Slowjamastan after visiting various “micronations” – self-declared territories often governed by eccentric leaders – during his global travels. His journey led him to the Republic of Molossia, an 11.3-acre micronation in Nevada, where he received a personal tour from “His Excellency President Kevin Baugh.” This experience fueled Williams’ desire to establish his own micronation.
Located off California State Route 78, Slowjamastan may be a small plot of desert, but it boasts an enormous “Welcome to Slowjamastan” sign, a border control post, and the colorful Slowjamastan flag. Despite Williams’ dictatorial role as the head of state, he occasionally holds special voting ceremonies and referendums, involving citizens in decisions such as selecting a national fruit, sport, and naming the national animal.
The Sultan’s unique character and dress highlight the absurdities found in politics and dictatorships worldwide. Williams often poses for photographs in his bright green sultan’s uniform, complete with faux military awards, golden epaulets, and tinted sunglasses. His Republic, despite its eccentricities, has garnered significant interest, with thousands applying for citizenship and cabinet positions.
With plans to open Slowjamastan’s borders to tourists, Williams envisions activities such as taking selfies in front of the Slowjamastan sign, visiting Independence Square, and searching for the elusive Slowjamastan raccoon, the national animal. The Sultan’s ambitious future plans include raising funds to build attractions like a lazy river, an armadillo farm, an all-you-can-eat Mongolian BBQ establishment, and a giant statue of “The Great Leader.”
Williams is also working on creating diplomatic ties with other countries, having obtained passport stamps from 16 different nations during his recent travels. While technically meeting the criteria for a sovereign nation-state, as defined by the Montevideo Convention, the next challenge for Slowjamastan is gaining recognition of its secession from the United States.
The Sultan’s unconventional journey, from a late-night DJ to the leader of his own micronation, continues to capture the imagination of those seeking an alternative perspective on nationhood and global exploration. Despite facing the complexities of diplomatic recognition, Williams remains determined to establish Slowjamastan as a unique and recognized entity on the world stage.