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Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey?
I think a lot of people think it’s easy to be a DJ , especially when you’re a female. They
think it’s all about the looks but really it’s a different ball game when you’re inside the
industry. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be taken seriously and to not be seen
as just a pretty face behind some decks. But nevertheless, it’s absolutely fun!
Do you sometimes struggle with being nervous and self-confidence when you are on stage or are you past
all of that?
"I think I’m past all of that. In the beginning, you do get really anxious especially because as
a DJ you’re responsible for the vibe, so if you mess up, you just ruin the vibe for the crowd
but as time goes you get used to it. If it’s something you’re really good at, confidence shouldn’t be a factor."
What made you want to pursue a career in entertainment?
'I’ve always been a lover for music, my brother was a huge house fan so he was always
jamming to music which in turn became a passion for me too. I love all genres of house
music , whether it’s Gqom, Piano, Afrotech and etc , I’m a huge fan. So going the DJing
route always made sense."
What has been the biggest accomplishment of your journey in entertainment so far?
"It's has to be "I don’t think I’ve accomplished that much yet, I’m still yet to reach huge milestones like
producing and dropping music and performing internationally but thus far I’m just proud of
how far I’ve come, from doing favour gigs in my local city to performing nationally in
almost all provinces."
Not only are you a Dj but a model too, so are there ever days where you feel overwhelmed and how do
you deal with such days?
"I’m a part time model and a full time DJ. I do modelling just for fun, especially for local
brands and etc, so no I don’t get overwhelmed cause we model by day and DJ by night.
Were there any sacrifices that had to be taken in order for you to get where you are currently?
"A big sacrifice was time with friends and family. There was a point I was performing almost
4 days in a week and in between I was balancing school as well so that took a lot of quality
time from friends and family but I have such a good support system, they would try to
come to my gigs , and that little time I had with them means the world."
mami lesa
This may be a controversial question but which club or
event did you mostly enjoy performing at?
"Very controversial but anywhere in Pretoria is just a 10/10 experience. Being a Pretorian
myself, I think it’s just easy to play on my homeground and because I know and understand
what my people like, they’re an easier crowd to please."
If you had to choose between being a Dj or a model which one would you go with and why?
"DJ, 100%. Modelling is just a hobby I do just for fun, but music is my passion."
At what point in your life did you realize that you want to become a disc jockey?
"I actually released at a very young age that I had wanted to be a DJ because of the fact that I
was fascinated with how one person can control a whole crowd the way they do. It was brought
to light to me when I was in high school when I attended Wonderland which is a similar but
smaller event to Tomorrowland and I knew from there on that I want to do this as a career.."
Take us through your first hand experience with being a disc jockey.
'Well my first time being a DJ was actually the moment I knew I was in the right place I
remember it till this day where a club manager had given me an opportunity because I came to
the club and realised there was no Dj playing and it was a full house this was the day Kabza De
Small was headlining and I went to the manager and asked if I could play till the DJ comes that’s
gonna play first, he looked me dead in the eye and said if you disappoint me you’ll never set foot
in here again. I went fully in did my thing and the crowd loved it and I knew there and then there’s
no turning back from here on forward."
We see that you have performed in Tanzania, how was that experience for you?
"The Tanzania experience is on another level I must say, it was very different from the usual
clubs I was use to this was a lot bigger and the energy was unmatched but I solely did what I do
best and rocked that night with. It was an experience and a half.”.
This may be a controversial question, but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing
at?
"The best to this day club I’ve played has to be Zan Zou and event wise it has to be Hayani in
Hammanskraal."
What is your favorite part about being a disc jockey?
"Favourite part of being a Dj is honestly oddly enough is the travelling from gig to gig and
meeting new energies everywhere one goes.'
alex the dj
If you could be remembered for one particular thing, what would you like to be remembered
for?
"I would honestly say the energy I bring forth once I get on the decks because I don’t do it like
any other Dj."
ob
Where are you from and how does the area influence your music?
" i was born and bred in Lotus Gardens, Phase 5 to be exact. it’s a small township around the perimeters of Atteridgeville.
arguably every neighbourhood here has elements of “vice city” to it but it just so happened to be gradually worse where I’m from. that has had a great influence on who i am as a human, which then
impacts who i am or who i may turn out to be as an artist."
Going forward with your journey in music who would you like to collaborate with?
"my dream collaboration would probably be to work with J. Cole and Saba, whether it be via production
or songwriting. outside of hip hop, i think i’d love to have songs with Sha Sha, Jorja Smith, Simmy, Gaopele
and a whole lot more."
What was your first experience with music?
"if my mind serves me right, my first experience with music would be seeing Michael Jackson on the tv
screen. every time i try to jog my memory it leads to the moments i was attempting to do his signature
moonwalk dance so yea, i’d say i had my first real experience with music through MJ."
What was the inspiration behind your latest single POINT 5 ?
"by the way, “POINT 5” is a street term we use to refer to the area we from, formally known as “Phase
5”. the motive behind the making of POINT 5 was to make something fun for the crowd to vibe to, without
diminishing the substance element in my music. many tragedies have befallen in the 5, so i thought it's
only right that i take the trials and tribulations of my people and put them on wax."
Why did you choose to go with Hip-hop? Do you see yourself working with other genres?
"i know this is going to sound clichè but i really don’t think i chose hip hop, i know that it chose me. i
was more exposed to whatever was popular in the hood, which was barcadi and house music. i didn’t
have much access to hip hop until i was in probably in grade 4 and from then on there was no looking
back. however, i do plan to branch out to other sounds as time goes by. there’s no telling how far my
talents can go.”.
Describe how you felt when you released your first ever single?
"i released my first song when i was in grade 9, it was called “Come Up”. i used to go by the name “O.B
Kay” by then. the feeling i got when everyone in the studio was singing along to it and giving me praises
was great. that was then superseded when i heard someone play the song and they had no idea it was
mine, that was so surreal. it felt like i had made it in life. we used to upload on DataFileHost in those days
and when i saw that i had 300 downloads, i was more than delighted. i still relive those moments when i
need some inspiration, just to remind myself how far i’ve came.."
How would you like your music to touch those who receive it?
"i believe that one of the best ways to appeal to the listener is to be relatable. therefore, my goal is to be
of interest to as many consumers as possible… from the lost kid in the township, to the adult who’s still
trying to figure it out. from the guy who just wants something to bust a dance to, to the girl who needs
sounds that soothe her soul."
What inspired you to become a musician?
"I grew in a church going family and I used to sing at Sunday school. I later joined a choir around
my neighborhood. Got elected a a choir conductor at Secondary School, and that's when I gained
confidence and was inspired to take my singing to the next level."
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
"I think working closely with Mkeyz in the past few years really built me as an artist from him
kinda like coaching me when it comes to vocal and stuff which really helped me become aware
of my abilities and so on in which what he taught is one in the same thing with what kiddy soul
did.Not forgetting the inspiration or influence lyrically in which it's something I wanna venture in
"being more spiritual and connected to my music" a lady called Mercibella, she might not have
made it yet or become well known but trust me when I say, she's a great writer."
When did you discover that you are passionate about being an artist?
'Like mentioned when I was in high school the year 2019, I think grade 11."
What can we expect from you in the future in terms of your music?
"I've been quiet in the game for a long while and I guess this is the time to make a grand
comeback. So good music, great features to be expected ...I feel it's time I made boss moves”.
Which music genre do you feel most connected to and why?
"It's has to be "Sghubu" aka Amapiano, the reason why is that I love music or a sound that
awakens my soul hence the name explains it's self the drum makes one move and it's easy for
me to bring out the best in me through this sound lyrically and vocally."
How would you like your work to touch those who receive it?
"I'd like my music to be relatable to the ears that receive it, not only that but it should also send
healing and all sorts of joyous feelings to them and at the same time be timeless."
enoch sech
What made you decide to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?
"I always had the love and passion for music as a young boy and from there that’s when I
knew that I want to become a DJ and rock in the music industry. I started being a DJ and then
moved into being a Music Producer, So I was always fascinated with how you could find Djs
playing music by one certain Music Producer so I poped in the music production side so it
came to a point where I wanted to grow on one genre because when I started I began with
Deep House then grew to Amapiano from there,it was still early days of Amapiano then and
not all loved or liked the sound compared to the way they do currently so that’s when I chose
to pursue a career in the entertainment industry."
As a music producer and a dj, what is that first thing you listen for when listening to a new
recording?
'The first thing I do and this happens to any new recording I’m to receive and have to listen
as a Music Producer I first find the whole idea and purpose of the song,find the emotion of
the song which then I will understand the full concept of the song so that’s what I focus on
as a music Producer and move that to being a DJ where by Firstly I always ask myself if I
would play this song in a set and why, secondly what am I trying to tell my crowd when I play
this song or which kind of emotion do I want to give the listeners when I play this song so
I am now place myself to a task where by I should not DJ this new track just because it’s a
New Track I need to first think of my crowd too if they would appreciate the song the way
I understand the song if it’s a banger they must respond the same way they would to any
banging track.."
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey?
"My first-hand experience is one of my best moments of my life actually cause I remember
very well It was at a House party which I was called in because of nice mixtapes the gents had
which I sent them so one of the guys there came with cdjs so that was my first gig and not
always recording mixtapes and saying I’m a DJ but not even gigging so that First Gig was too
much and I honestly don’t want to lie it was rough cause I wanted to apply every skill I could
do with the laptop live on decks so it was really a nice challenge which turned out to become
a blessing because from there I was always obsessed to learning and also I wanted to find
a way to do those skills properly and that’s where the journey grew from a young crowd at
my neighbours house then we escalated into the industry it wasn’t easy getting where I am
currently and I’m still aiming high”.
Do you sometimes struggle with being nervous when you are on stage or are you past all
that?
"Honestly I would say it depends on the mood I get from the crowd at a gig. Because
sometimes you find that I’m not in so much pressure in one gig like the other one to get
me nervous but then I would maybe still get nervous before being on stage so basically the
energy which made me nervous automatically gives me confidence to perform. Sometimes I
find that I have to create the energy i want to perform for so it becomes more of confidence."
Moving forward within the music industry who would you like to collaborate with?
I’d definitely want to collaborate with artists like Kabza de small, Murumba pitch, Mick man,
Mdu aka TRP, Aymos, Mawoo and Other Artists thou I can’t list them all but, I would definitely
love to collaborate with any artist willing to put in the effort in having proper craft out.'
nexus soul
kiddy soul
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
"I produce Soulful piano, it has a little bit touch of Soulful House music."
When did you realise that you want to go into the music industry?
'It all started in 2016 when I was firstly introduced to the Software called FL Studio. I
associated myself with people who are using FL Studio to create music, I used to be around
them everytime when they produce but by that time they were doing Baccardi. So I started
making my own beats and I'm happy that nobody is ever gonna come to me and say that he/
she taught me how to create music, I did it myself. Consistency is one thing that really helped
get the experience I have now."
What was the inspiration behind the Iskhathi EP ?
"The iskhathi EP is a wonderful EP that came out unexpectedly. Me and 'rome we were just
making songs together then after some time we realized that we have more songs together
that's when we decided to select some few songs from all of the songs we've made together
and made it an EP. We didn't really discuss about making an EP it just came out like that”.
From your last EP, which song is your favorite and why?
"Impumelelo is my favorite song because it has a strong message behind. It is basically taking
about wanting to have success and having a strong belief that one day it will happen."
What can we expect from you this year in terms of your music career, any new projects on the
way?
"I am currently working on a project of 15 songs, its 70% done."
Where are you from and how does your background influence the type of music you create?
"I spent half my life in Katlehong in the the Eastrand and the other half here in Pretoria,
Mabopane and everywhere I've just been surrounded by music, and all these households
being Christians I typically I used to sing at church, from IPCC to Roman Catholic, it was the
only place I could get to express my talent. And I guess that's why I like making music that
speaks to the soul and that has a message, hence my debut single is about God lol.."
What is the best part about being a songwriter?
'The best thing I've discovered from songwriting is perspective. I've found myself writing
about situations I've never been in but I get into character and write from those people's
perspectives, its so fun but mostly if anything I love bringing the beat alive with my words or
stories, I love the transition from a beat being just a beat to it being a full song because now
there's my story in it.."
What is the inspiration behind your single uBusisiwe?
"I wrote uBusisiwe when I was going through the biggest redirection of my life, so the song is
basically about embracing big life changes and redirection especially if they are unplanned,
looking at them from a different perspective and finding a blessing from them.”.
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
"I love how Yebba and India Arie writes her music, I make amapiano which is completely
different from her style of music but I do hope I get to have the same impact their writing and
harmonies have on people in my style of music. I also love Mawho's writing and musicianship,
she conveys powerful messages through her songs which is something I'd also like to do."
What was your first experience with music?
I played Sarafina in primary school at a June 16 event. We practiced and choreographed most
parts ourselves and we got to perform it in front of the whole school and guests, I loved every
minute of it and it was the first real experience I had with music.
How would you like your work to touch those who receive it?
"I'd like my music to be relatable to the ears that receive it, not only that but it should also send
healing and all sorts of joyous feelings to them and at the same time be timeless."
imor
What made you decide to start a YouTube channel?
"I grew up watching a lot of Youtubers, I just fell in love with living my own life and
recording every moment of it so I can always go back to look at it, it is always amazing
to see the difference and how things have changed. I decided to start my own YouTube
channel because I noticed that there was a gap in the industry, at some point I was also tired
of watching the female youtubers because as much as I loved them and still do, I needed
youtubers that I could relate to at the deeper level so I started my channel to give that to
some young male person who might have been experiencing that feeling too."
Why do you think people are interested in the content that you uploaded in your videos?
'I think mainly they are interested in my content because of my personality, I am quiet
a funny person, I make myself laugh sometimes too. But also, I think I am a very creative
person, so my vlogs are giving that, my subscribers just enjoy witnessing all of that especially
coming from a male youtuber, it is rare."
How do you decide on what to tape on a given day?
"I do a lot of vlogs so vlogs are not just like any YouTube content that is planned, they are
very authentic so I just live my life then decide to tape that and that’s the reason I also enjoy
watching vlogs rather than other content that I know, it might have been staged.”.
Who is your style inspiration?
"Honestly, I am my own inspiration because I feel like there is no other creator that is like
me. I am not trying to be delusional, but I am the best creator that I have witnessed so far."
What has been your biggest achievement so far as a digital creator?
I would say working with Mr Price, that was so amazing! Considering that I grew up
wearing Mr Price clothes all the time, never in my life have I thought that one day I will get to
send them an invoice.it just made me realised how everything is possible.
You've worked with some big brands such as ZAFUL and ROMWE Men, how did that make you
feel?
"It makes me feel really good about myself, I started to realised that I am actually good
and what I do and no one can take that away from me because at some point I thought I was
not good enough because I come from in Alexandra and maybe YouTube and content creation
as a whole was meant for rich kids but now I see that ACTULLY!!."
banele
theo
Where are you from and how does that influence your style and the content you showcase?
"I come all the way from a small township Turfloop, in Limpopo. Most
people from there are proud to be from Limpopo so I guess that
inspires, to be proud of what I’m doing. There’s no specific thing that
inspires my content or style just other than being proud and
authenticity."
who is your favourite fashion designer?
"I don’t have one favourite but a few starting with Thebe Magugu,
Donatella Versace, John Galliano , Thierry Mugler, Vivienne Westwood,
Karl Lagerfeld and Daniel Roseberry at Schiaparell."
why did you decide to become YouTube and a fashion designer?
'Honestly speaking, Youtube was just for fun, I just tried it out and
wantedto see if I enjoy it or not. That’s why I hardly upload videos, and
fashion designer. Uhm, I always liked art and making wedding dresses
for niece’s barbie dolls, she used to get married every morning. And
also, my mom she’s part of the reason why I chose fashion."
on days when you lack motivation, how do you overcome that feeling?
"Lol, I just remind myself that Thebe Magugu and Rich Mnisi went to the
same school as me and look how big they are right now. And like Kim
said “GET YOUR F ASS UP AND WORK”.
as a person who’s into fashion,what is the one lesson you’ve learnt so far?
Creativity has no limit. Just go for it.
what type of content can we expect from your Youtube channel this year?
"A lot of insides about fashion school and how it is. Just more details, so
for every vlog I upload I’m gonna be answering a question or two
asked from the previous video. Still trying to figure out how it’s gonna
work out but— we’ll see.."
thee acme
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
"My music is a hybrid of Pitori and trap elements that serves as a sonic depiction of who I am
and where I'm from. The music I make is an emotion, not just words on an instrumental. It is the
essence of Pitori. "
Where are you from, and how does that affect your work?
'Ke mfana Flaka, commonly known as Mamelodi, a township in Pretoria East. My music is a
reflection of Flaka, what I’ve heard, seen, and experienced firsthand. My lyrics are stories of
events that occur in and around Flaka. It has influenced how I move, live, and express myself.
Pitori has its own sauce that can’t be replicated or found elsewhere."
What inspired your latest track, "FLAKA SAGA"?
"FLAKA SAGA is a record by the Pitori rap duo, OUTTAORDER, consisting of Pitori’s hottest,
Thee Acme and KayLloyd. “ke SAGA ya FLAKA” captures the core of who we are and how our
upbringing—including the streets, gangsterism, daily life —has shaped us into
becoming"OUTTAORDER."
It comes after I had released “FLAKAVELI,” a freestyle of 25K’s Trap Jumpin’ that had caught
traction in the streets(and later became a favourite fan nickname), and a couple of freestyles
that KayLloyd had dropped throughout the year. It was inspired by where we are from, Flaka,
and the direction we are heading towards sonically.
What is your favorite part of being an artist?
"My favourite part is Touching others.
I don’t just “create art”; I am Art. I make music for me first; however, knowing that it can
positively impact other people’s lives and emotions give it a new distinct value. It’s Godly.
I’m not an artist because I can create art. I am an artist because the art that I have created has
touched others in all forms."
If you could be remembered for one particular thing, what would you want to be remembered
for?
"The greatest ever. The only African rapper with an Oscar and a Grammy."
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
"2pac and Lil Wayne are the reason I started rapping. The 90s raps of 2pac and DMX that my
brother listened to and the timeless music of Aretha Franklin and Mariah Carey played nonstop
at home were my major musical influences growing up. James Cameron is another huge."
native dj.
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey?
"My first hand experience at being a disk jockey is actually quite strange. So i used to attend school by a
boarding school in Silverton, Cornerstone college. So I used to be the first team goalkeeper and captain until I
got to matric and I had to drop sports to focus on academics. Now I needed to find another stress reliever. I then
decided that during the June holidays I’d go for lessons to becoming a DJ. That’s when I met a friend of my
sister’s, Lele Mabena, Founder of MLP Productions and that’s when he taught me how to becoming a DJ. I first
played deep house music and that’s when I refined my mixing skills and timing then later transitioned to
Amapiano and Afro-tech. But I am a Piano bunny at heart. "
How did the name "Native DJ come about?
'Okay so my stage name is derived from the meaning of the word “ native” which means someone or something
that is associated with their place of birth. So being bred just outside of Pretoria, I am a dj that is native to
Pretoria, hence NativeDJ_012."
What made you decide to pursue a career in entertainment?
"I just think my love for music is the one that made me decide to pursue the entertainment sector. I come from
a family of academics so you can imagine how tough it is being a creative and music lover then have to convince
your parents that you want to pursue such a career whilst doing your Bachelor of Science. Yes I juggle both.''
This may be a controversial question but which club or event did you enjoy performing at the most?
"In terms of the club scene I’d say the club I enjoyed playing at the most was Guilty/ The One out in Cape Town
and the event I most enjoyed was the recent freshers event that was hosted by Homecoming events in Hatfield."
What would you say is your favorite part about being a disc jockey?
"My favorite part about being a disk jockey is when I see people enjoying the different variations of piano I play
for them and the type of new music I introduce to them. It’s always the smiles on their faces that makes me
content. Seeing the crowd enjoying themselves is why I’m a DJ. My love and passion for music, from spiritual, to
soulful, to groovy music infused in one set is what I enjoy the most."
What can we expect from you this year in terms of your music career, are there any projects
on the way?
"This year we can expect a lot but I wouldn’t want to count my chickens before they hatch. I am working on an
EP, that’s all I can reveal for now. And yeah I am just working at getting the brand outside the province. Make it
a household name like the people I looked up to growing up. When the name NativeDJ pops up I want it to be in
good spaces and good energies. So I’m just working at moulding the brand to what I want it to be and just drop
music people will enjoy and relate to, music they wouldn’t mind consuming on a daily."
DOOBIE MAN
Where are you from and how does the area influence your music?
"On Google it’s Saulsville, we call it BlackRock GullySide 0125. "
What made you decide to pursue a career in entertainment?
"My Music is a portrayal of what i see everyday, so it’s basic commentary of life in the hood expressed with the hunger of wanting to get out."
What was your first experience with music?
" I wouldn’t say I have a specific first time experience with music because I come from a musical family, my uncle being one half off Motswako duo. Baphixile. ."
How would you describe the music you create?
"Just that, music. I’d like to think that the direction I am taking is allowing me to grow from being just another rapper to becoming a musician."
Going forward with your journey in music who would you like to collaborate with?
"The talent pool of upcoming artists is huge, so I would like to work with all the new artists. But in general. Geo nyaka feature, tlo tseye verse ka skoloto."
What can we expect from you this year, are there any new projects on the way?
"Features dey plenty, project na plenty too.
Doobie na correct guys, 2023 dey go see gobe na Wahala now!"
What advice would you like to share with other upcoming artists?
"Have a solid team, collaborate. Have more than one hustle.
Tlogela banyana , tibisa zaka."
MOCHEN
What was your first experience with music?
"My earliest recollection of my experience with music is being at home watching my family dance and sing along to some old good music. Bo Sis Brenda Fassie, Dollar Brand, Abdullah Ibrahim, and the likes."
What inspired the single El Presidente(Hit Em Up Freestyle)?
" There’s been a lot of conversation around freestyles on Twitter, i thought i should come through with one that represents all the important elements of rap. Rawness in delivery, punchlines, story telling, flow switch ups, pockets, braggadocio, and believability… the term El Presidente has become a fan favourite Nickname since the verse i dropped on “Speak N Vrostaan” with my brother G-tech 2bit, shout out to him"
What is the best part about being an artist?
"For me, the best part about being an artist is the infinite ability to create from nothing, to then witnessing your creation impact positively on people’s lives. It’s Godly."
Where are you from and how does your place of origin influence the music that you create?
" I’m from Mabopane, North of Pretoria. My music has a lot to do with my upbringing because I’m literally telling stories of where i come from in my music. Not only my first hand encounters but also telling the stories of the people from where i come from since they’ve entrusted me to be their voice. Both good and bad, mostly honest, and others obviously relatively crafty for the sake of the art."
Your latest reel on Instagram which is a video of your latest single is currently on more than
51k viewers, did you expect the reel to have this many viewers?
"Honestly, i did expect it to have some sort of unprecedented impact . Because of how it was written and because of whom it was directed towards. These are relatable stories from the block. I expect it to do even better than it has always done."
Do you sometimes struggle with being nervous and self-confidence when you are on stage?
". Not really, I’ve been performing for quite some time now, I’ve learned to filter out the noises in my head that come with being in front of people. I’m very professional about it and i stick to what i am on stage to do, which is entertain. I’m very self aware and i know the potential i possess and that this is a long game that I’m playing, getting better and better with time. "
Who would you like to collaborate with?
"Speaking of collaborations, i want this current era to be different from any other South African musical era that existed before us, especially on the Hip-Hop side of things. The genre in its own identity is competitive, but how about it becomes collaborative for a change and we get to create some dope music. I would love to collaborate with the dope artists from PTA. i can’t come close to naming a few because there is so much talent out here. I would love to also collaborate with RnB artists from all over the country."
Where do you see yourself in five years time with your journey in music?
" I would love to see myself in a position of influence where i can positively impact on the lives of those coming after me. To be able to create something worth revisiting a couple of lifetimes later. I would love to see the Pitori rap scene taking over across the globe. We rap in our own language, and only we can do it at this highest level "
G-TECH
Where are you from and how does that affect your music?
"I am from Hebron, Pretoria. (township, CITY) where I come from affects my music in a lyrical sense that if you can listen to most of my lyrics I talk/rap on affairs that occur in Pretoria. Where I come from affects my music in the accent/language I use in my lyrics, it’s a language that originates from. Pretoria."
How would you describe the music that you create?
" i would describe the music i create to as a creative explosion, in terms of sound engineering and lyrically my music is real life talk and yet fun."
How did the name "gtech 2bit" come about?
"When I first started making music I was listening to a lot of Immortal Technique, so the ”Tech” was inspired by that. The 2bit was inspired by a character on Power. I love the show."
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
" I’m inspired by a lot of RnB and soulful music when it comes to sequencing albums and creative ways to go about my mixing . I’m always competing with albums like ‘How to pimp a butterfly’ by Kendrick Lamar and albums like Documentary by The Game. I aspire to make great albums like that"
What was your first experience with music?
"It has to be when I used to hear a lot of Msawawa, Mandoza and Mzambiya in the house. Those were some of the songs that got my attention as a kid, I think that’s my first experience with music besides the experience to create it."
What made you decide to pursue a career in entertainment?
"I was curious about how music is created, I learned and I just kept going about my research until I got everything I needed to make my own music as well."
What inspired you to do what you do?
"What inspired me to do what i’m doing is the urge to make a living out of something i’m good at effortlessly without even struggling to get in the element of work. "
Going forward with your journey as an artist who would you like to collaborate with?
"One day I wish to collaborate with Burna Boy, Marcus Harvey, Tems, Her & many more".
What can we expect from you this year in terms of your music career?
"You can except a whole lot more music videos for my music and music i’m featured in, more singles dropping and maybe a mixtape".
JIMMY JIGSON
What was your first experience with music?
My first experience with music? Can't say I remember the details but I definitely have a memory of when I first fell in love with music or at least how it felt. It was quiet magical, it's the greatest sweet freedom I have ever experienced. The aura of the music elements became the center of my atmosphere, where every song/lyric I wrote was me pouring what almost felt close and personal to me at the time especially coming from a family that doesn't express much thoughts but shares music as a tele-communication tool (to share words of wiseness, excitement, happiness, humor, philosophy, socio-economic issues, art and love, through conversations of sound) since we're in a digital world. Music freed a part of me that I had hidden, it was magical to create something that touched me and also the people around my world.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
"I make music for the weirdos, people who don't fit in, me being the recluse I am. To make them feel seen and accommodated in such a selective society.
The life in my neighborhood has plenty of occurances , it's satisfying addressing the art of how it impacts us with the good and bad.
I make more of a hip-hop genre infused with dance for the young soul's that feels incapable of change in their dire situations at home and their personal life. I also plan on dispersing my sound to other genres like afro-pop and/or tech to show my versatile traits."
Who or what inspired you to make music?
"I draw inspiration from a lot of different sources. Be it my need to convey all my unspoken thoughts and feelings or just turning all my heartaches into something positive.
The way my family romanticized music, and the role it played in my life since I was a kid, remain the foundation of my drive. It always inspired me to put my emotions on instruments that makes me voice out what's inside. To spark the world was also an inspiration I later discovered."
What is your favorite part about being a song writer?
"Writing for me is a deep human expression. It helps me cultivate my skill, navigate self-discovery, be able to reach emotional sanity through each expression and to confront or be in-touch with my most profound emotions. Giving it my optimum best to put lyricism that's going to make what I have to say "stand out", my favorite part is when my written lyrics aligns with the melodies and a banger song is built up.
I would say, when I have to step out of my comfort zone and effortlessly write a great piece that feels close to my heart, it induces a certain entirety."
What has been the best performance of your career so far?
" I like to think that every time I'm up on that stage I'm at my best. And even though this might spark some controversy, I rarely have live performances that are mid. Every time a new audience or even my fans are graced with a live show, the atmosphere often turns ecstatic, instantly."
Are there sacrifices that had to be taken in order for you to get where you are currently?
“Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never the result of selfishness” I don't remember where I heard that but it definitely hit home. I've had a handful of dreams, goals and passions I wanted/want to pursue, that I eventually had to deprioritize for the sake of music. I fell off with so many people, detached from plenty of relationships in order to dedicate & commit my focus on the persuasion of arts and music as a whole."
Going forward in the music industry who would you like to collaborate with?
"I don't know if I might feel different in the future, but now currently, I feel like If I stepped into the same studio with Zoocci Coke Dope I'd emerge a better artist than I am at the moment.
To follow on that list, is Burningforestboy, Shane Eagle, Jay Jody and Thato Saul."
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be?
"Gifted "
What can we expect from you this year; are there any projects on the way?
"I've recently dropped one of the hottest tapes/e.p's to ever come out of Pretoria, called TheStarryNight. Which features King Keiigh, Blaqnick & Masterblaq (The Whistling Man, Khuza Gogo, La Maluka hit makers). I named it after one of Van Gogh's greatest pieces that he deemed (at the time of it's creation) as one of his failures. I'm dropping a new single in May called Ethereal Energy, and hope to stay consistent in giving fans new music. I'm currently working on two music videos, and no doubt fire more music. Proper announcements will be made in due time".
SLU
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
"My music is essentially a result of the song that the Pretoria streets have taught me, spitori language influence and vibes."
What is your favourite part about being an artist?
" This space is work but I don’t recall a single day where it felt like I’m working. I’m sincerely happy to the core, from being in studio to going on the road. Plus the people I’ve met, everything just makes me happy."
What has been the best performance of your career so far?
"The first House Of Slu I hosted outside South Africa, I played after a Daliwonga performance which might be tricky after a headliner but I shut it down regardless."
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey?
"Kinda grew up around music, from both my parents. But my big brother is the one who got me hooked on House music."
What made you decide to pursue a career in entertainment?
".I didn’t exactly decide, I was just fascinated by deejaying since high school. Never lost the passion then one thing led to another (learning tricks of the trade, meeting people that have done it longer than me) and here I am today."
Where are you from and how is it influential to your work?
"I was born in Swaziland but I’ve lived in Pretoria for the past 5 years. The culture of music, hustlers (clothing brand owners among other things), unity to name is part of the reason I’ve made it this far honestly. "
Does the fame and crowd ever get too overwhelming and how do you deal with such?
"Never that. I literally do what I do to make people happy, which makes me happy. With everything else, I feel you teach people how to treat you from the way you carry yourself.."
This may be a controversial question but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing at during 2022?
"A crossover event I did in Mozambique. I walked through the crowd with the promoter when I was going to perform but I needed security after I finished to escort us back to my table because everyone was ecstatic"
What can we expect from you this year in terms of your music career, any new projects we can get soon?
"I'm working on a couple of singles, hopefully an EP before the year ends. More House of Slu events with even better production and partners and most importantly putting more smiles on people's faces".
DJ NDIYO
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
"I am into the Amapiano genre but I don't really want to box myself into any particular sound
because I release something new everytime and I like exploring with my music."
Who are your main inspirations in the music industry?
" Like I mentioned before, I come from a musical background so the inspiration to become a
DJ came from there. I used to do beauty before but I knew that I need to go into music."
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey?
"At first it was a bit overwhelming but eventually it felt like something I had been used to
because I have always wanted and loved being a DJ."
What made you decide to pursue a career in entertainment?
"Being in the music industry has always been a dream, I grew up in a home where I was
surrounded by musicians. I knew from a very young age that I want to pursue this and I have
always been passionate about it."
Do you not sometimes struggle with self-confidence when you are stage or are you past all of that?
" Oh no I do not struggle with that, once I am on stage I just let myself be. But since I will be
having my first international gig soon I am a bit nervous about that, but usually it just takes me
a few minutes to get comfortable on stage."
Were there ever days when you felt like giving up and if so how did you deal with such days?
"I just prayed whenever things got too much to handle, I let God control everything. Through
my entire journey I have put my faith into God."
Who would you like to thank for being with you on this great musical journey you are on ?
"Once again I can't really be specific here just incase I forget to mention someone but I
would definitely like to thank everyone who has had a contribution to my success and most
importantly I'd thank God because He has made it possible."
This may be a controversial question but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing at during 2022?
"I don't want to mention any specific clubs because I don't want anyone feeling neglected but I
must say I do enjoy performing in Sandton and Pretoria."
What advice would you like to share with upcoming artists?
"Study music, take the time time to learn the background about music because you find
young artists being confused in terms of royalties and being exploited by record labels, so
it is always good to first learn about the industry and what you are getting yourself into.
Fortunately for me it was easy because I had studied for this so I knew how things go, I could
easily locate which companies to go to and avoid being exploited."
DJ HARVEY
Where do u reside from?
"Based in west side of Johannesburg, Roodepoort"
Who are your main inspirations in the music industry?
"I have always been inspired by the old school cats of the piano music industry some of which being Shaun101, Njelic, DJ Stoks and someone I really started taking onto is Felo Le Tee"
Who would you like to thank for being with you on this great musical journey you are on ?
"For starters my mom for sure, she’s never doubted my journey nor my plans and also my team Farmhaus, each individual from there has guided, taught and exposed me to a lot of things since the day we started working together."
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey?
"My first-hand experience of being a disc jockey has never been an easy journey, I started out with a program called “Virtual DJ” on a laptop and with that I started dropping mixtapes, my name grew from that, and the recognition began. I have always been a bubbly and likeable person, so networking was easy for me and with that I managed to start getting gigs and showing off my skills"
Do you not sometimes struggle with self-confidence when you are stage or are you past all of that?
" Think everyone struggles with that but I think what keep me going is the constant reminder to myself that I’m in the position that I’m in for a reason and I am blessed with my talent and it for me to showcase to whoever and whenever, but one thing that does strike often is anxiety just before any set I’m about to play"
Were they any sacrifices that had to be taken in order for you to get where you are currently at or going?
"Wouldn’t really consider it a sacrifice because it’s something I chose to do for the benefit of my career which is to not attend first year University and focus mainly on building my brand as an artist"
Now in 2022 on your Instagram you are seen in the studio with musical talents such as Tyler ICU, Freddy K, TBO, Abidoza etc. How was it working with these musical talents, and can we expect something soon?
"Personally, I have been in many rooms with many talented individuals and from being in all those studio camps and the one thinks I gained from them all is knowledge it’s always a crazy experience to see go different individuals work and take in tips from that, yeah definitely 2023 has a lot installed for me and it’s about time I make it know by droop my own projects"
What was the greatest advice you gave yourself when you first started to get known ?
"To remain patient, humble & grateful; That I'm in today’s position and past yesterday's position for a reason"
This may be a controversial question but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing at during 2022?
"I have played at a lot of different clubs and events each with different energies from the other but my favourite events to play at is hood gigs because the energy at all those are always crazy!"
What are we expecting from you this year overall in your music career , any new projects we can get soon?
"Honestly not even trying to jinx my plans for the year but aim for the year is to build a brand that can inspire many who are trying to step foot in the industry, and I expect people to remember the name, face & talent. Possible projects from me will be singles and mixtapes to keep the streets alive and buzzing."
TBO
Were they any sacrifices that had to be taken in order for you to get where you are currently at or going?
"I made my own personal sacrifices to be where I am today, I decided to not pursue my studies after high school and have all my Focus on making it a musician."
Who are your main inspirations in the music industry?
" Internationally I look up to Brent Faiyaz SZA Chris Brown Justin Bieber. Locally my inspiration is Musa Keys, Nkosazana daughter and Costa Titch"
Do you not sometimes struggle with self confidence when you are stage or are you past all of that ?
"It depends, some days you are more confident some days you are low in self-esteem and sometimes it depends on the energy of the crowd"
Now in 2021 till now you were on your grind, and you were featured on both Kelvin Momos album including the hit song Funa. How was it working with this musical talent and what can we expect next with these musical? legends?
"Working with Kelvin Momo was very eye opening for me that’s how I discovered for the first time that I’m a private school amapiano fan because before me and him worked I did not know of him, now all I do is listen and record to private school / soulful amapiano"
What was the greatest advice you gave yourself when you first started to get known ?
"To always believe in myself to always stay true to myself and to accept the fact that I’m always changing."
This may be a controversial question, but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing at during 2022?
"I’d say Tanzania and Zone 6"
What are we expecting from you this year overall in your music career, any new projects we can get soon?
"More songs more features and music videos, more deals and a lot more growth."
SOUL JAM
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a disc jockey.
"For me I started being a Dj at the age of 8 as my uncle was a DJ and I had a love for music he taught me a thing or two and it's never been the same since, Its honestly great for me being able to evoke happy emotions to a crowd is something that still has me in awe allot it's just an amazing experience."
Do you not sometimes struggle with self-confidence when you are stage or are you past all of that?
"I can Safely say I'm passed all of That at the point I am it ends up being normal at some point."
Were they any sacrifices that had to be taken in order for you to get where you are currently at or going?
"I wouldn’t say sacrifices but putting in hard work and trying to get through the right channels and having to deal with people in the best way possible"
Now in 2022 you were on your grind and you were featured on the Major League DJs 72 hour Balcony Mix and you have a song with them called Jupiter . How was it working with these musical talents and can we expect next with these musical legends ?
"Working with them is challenging looking at what they’ve built for themselves, but what makes it a breeze is them being able to listen and go with some ideas there is definitely some new work being done but I can’t disclose much as yet"
This may be a controversial question, but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing at during 2022?
"Thats a tough one but i have to give it to Moloko Menlyn and Liv Sandton for the club side on the events side Tanzania way takes it all"
Who are your main inspirations in the music industry?
"To name a Few i would say
Dj Ph
Shimza
MAJOR LEAGUE Djz
Kabza De Small
Dbn gogo
Musa Keys
And I can’t leave out Banques & Venom
But there are alot more people in my list who work behind the scenes behind"
What was the greatest advice you gave yourself when you first started to get known ?
"I can be modest but in every tough time I always tell myself this ‘keep your head up and remember no matter what it is never over just keep working"
What are we expecting from you this year overall in your music career , any new projects we can get soon?
"Safe to say expect new music a project or two definitely some brand growth and more movement."
Who would you like to thank for being with you on this great musical journey you are on ?
"Biggest S/O to My team, the grootmans who are still helping me grow till today and overall people who support me"
GO FLEXY
When did you decide that your name was going to be Go.flexy
⁃ This is a funny story but I gave myself that name in grade 7 or 8 if I can recall right but yeh , I was a hyperactive kid while growing , I did sports ( athletics / cricket / and I almost joined the rugby team at school ) but I couldn’t take part in them anymore because I had Asthma but that didn’t stop me from being an active kid.
⁃ Anyways, as I said i gave myself that name, I wrote the name “flexy” at the back on my Nike school bag just for graffiti and fun (I was just playing around) but then it unexpectedly turned into something huge. Now everybody was calling me flexy, and it stuck so I ran with it.
Now not long ago Mr Jazziq asked you to do a dance challenge on tik tok which was obviously huge , how did that come about ?
⁃ Yohhhh Mr JazziQ right? Well, he dm’ed me on Instagram and said that he liked my work, and we should work on something soon and I took that opportunity with both hands and ran with it.
Was dancing a original passion you had growing up?
⁃ I can’t say it was a passion because I didn’t think much of it , I just did it for fun and mind you at that time there weren’t a lot of dancers so I didn’t really take it serious and I had zero clue about the dancing industry and how it worked but I was always a dancer , I grew up dancing at family gatherings , at school , home like everywhere. I wasn’t a shy kid. I was outgoing and always curious.
This may sound like a cliché question but are they any big plans so far this year ?
⁃ YESS , most definitely. I have soo many plans and ideas I still have to execute! There’s still so much to offer to the world! Y’all haven’t seen me enough!
When you first started blowing up on Social Media what was your initial reaction? Where you shocked or you originally knew it was meant to be this way ?
No I was not schocked at all , I was expecting it because of the support I got from my class mates and school mates at school , they actually made me believe in myself even more.
⁃ They used to cheer for me crazy , they liked and supported everything I did so it’s safe to say that they made me who I am today!
⁃ So I knew it wasn’t meant to be.
Do you not sometimes fear judgement on social media or you already established a mindset that pushes you away from all that
⁃ I do fear judgement , who doesn’t ? , man social media is just a weird and negative place full of jealous/miserable people who’s aim is to feed on people’s failures but it can also be a really positive/motivating place.
⁃ But right now I’m in a space where I believe fully (101% ) in myself and no one can tell me otherwise! Or try to demotivate me from achieving greatness from my hard work and talent!
Lastly who would you like to thank so far in your journey?
⁃ Yoh there’s a whole lot of people I’d like to thank but I’m gonna start with my manager who’s also a good friend from Highschool.
⁃ My cousin Kamogelo , also well know as Danger/Don.
⁃ My friends and everyone that supports me in this journey I’m taking
IMANI BASQUIAT
Where do u reside from?
"The north side of Pretoria in a small neighborhood called The Orchards"
Who are your main inspirations in the music industry?
Andre 3000, Kanye west, Isaiah Rashad, Michael Jackson, Kendrick Lamar SZA, Doechii, Joyce wrice & FKA twigs to name a few but the list goes on and stretches as far as legends like James Brown, George Benson, Sade, Donna Summer & Aretha Franklin. My taste is quite broad.
Take us through your first-hand experience with being a musician?
"I am a musician. It's been a wild journey and I'm still learning as I keep going but it's been a beautiful one. I went from not knowing how to rap or sing to being able to compose records that evoke pure emotion and hold great meaning to people in a matter of 3 years. "
Do you not sometimes struggle with self-confidence when you are stage or are you past all of that?
"I get a little nervous but all of that falls away once I step onto the stage. It's like a different persona takes over almost. I go into "Basquiat" mode, kind of like the avatar state, if you've ever watched the show lol. "
Who would you like to thank for being with you on this great musical journey you are on?
" My producer (Baitu Manong) & my manager ( Regopotswe Molapo). These guys are more than just their above message titles. They are my support system, the people that keep me grounded and focused, my go-to, my closest friends, and my brothers. I honestly wouldn't ask for anyone else to be on this journey with."
This may be a controversial question but which club or event did you mostly enjoy performing at during 2022?
" At "Escaping the city", is an up & coming event/festival space in PTA that is accommodative of different musical soundscapes. The energy there was so beautiful, and the people were so receptive and open to the whole performance. There's something special that has been brewing in the PTA creative scene that I think will dominate in a few. Keep an eye out."
Were they any sacrifices that had to be taken in order for you to get where you are currently at or going?
"Most definitely. I used to have toxic vices like cigarettes and worse that I'd visit daily, which hindered my functionality and level of creation. I had to let go of them for me to have started releasing music seriously last year (2022). I formed new habits like working out regularly and eating healthier that keep me grounded and taught me the value of hard work, attention to detail, and consistency."
Now in 2022 till now you were on your grind, and you released an art sequence of singles such as HER, Risky etc. Take us through the creative thought process that went into creating such masterpieces.
"The initial idea was to release a full-length project, however, we realized we wouldn't have enough time for us to create the impact we wanted, so we decided to go on a 2-month single run releasing one song weekly. We worked with a select array of producers & artists to create the music and as for the rollout...as much as it was deemed intricate by the masses, it was due to a release mishap with one of the songs not going live on Streaming Platforms in time, mid-run. This changed everything, we made up a story that my hard drive had been stolen and ran with it, lol I was more surprised that people bought into it in the way that they did. If thinking on your feet had a picture next to its definition in the dictionary it would be my team and I. The artworks were graphically designed by myself, taking inspiration from George Condo and Jean Michel Basquiat, as I had always been a traditional visual artist growing up."
What was the greatest advice you gave yourself when you first started to get known ?
Just keep going. I see all these little successes as moments of affirmation and so it drives me to continue creating, thus attracting the energy I desire. This journey is more spiritual than it is creative. I just happen to be blessed with these gifts.
What are we expecting from you this year overall in your music career , any new projects we can get soon?
"2 projects. One collaborative and the other my own."