The Set Magazine Issue 1

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Viewanddownloadourdigitalissueatwww.thesetmagazine.co.za

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If you grew up in a township like I did,
I’m sure you would agree that house
music is more than just that- it is a big
part of our lives. But of course house
music in SA transcends just beyond
townships. South Africa is globally
recognised for its immense talent
when it comes to this genre of music
and that is what makes it very special.
It was exactly a year ago when the
idea of starting this magazine sur-
faced and since then, The Set Maga-
zine has been what is always on top of
our minds, giving us sleepless nights
of visualizing the dreams and aspira-
tions that we have for it. We went
from being Politics, IT, Multimedia and
BCom students to having to learn all
there is to about the publishing and
media industry in SA. What started
out as our love for house music led
us to establishing this magazine,
with the dream and intention to fill a
Mobi Dixon ft M.Que- City Rains
Chymamusique- No Prison
Zano ft Thiwe- Oceans Apart
Oral Deep- Everest
Dario D’Attis ft Lisa Shaw- All Over (Rocco Deep Mix)
gap in the market that is of a lack of
a nationally recognised house music
magazine despite this genre being
one of the most predominant genres
of music in our country.
We are not there yet but if you are
reading this, I hope that you will live
testament to see that happening one
day, hopefully much sooner than
expected.
It is then with great pleasure that we
present you with the first issue of The
Set Magazine! It’s been an interest-
ing and enthusiastic three months of
putting this issue together and we are
glad that it is finally here.
In this issue we sat down with popular
house music duo Black Motion to
have a chat. We are most definitely
honoured to have them as our cover
stars for this first issue. Read their
interview from pg 9. We also caught
up with Metro FM Award winner
Chymamusique, DJ Mlungu, DJ Thabi
Thabs and rising star of house music
DJ Perfecto. We also bring you a list of
local house music albums to expect
in 2015 as well as a guide on how to
market yourself as a musician.
We’d like to get feedback from you
regarding what you think about the
magazine so feel free to interact with
us on any of our social media plat-
forms. I’d like to extend my sincere
gratitude to The Set Magazine team
for putting so much effort into this is-
sue. I hope that you as the reader will
enjoy the fruits of their labour. Until
next time...
Yours In House Music,
Molebogeng
*We’d like to send a special shout-out
to Mr Julius Kyakuwa, a lecturer from
the music department at the Univer-
sity of Pretoria for providing us with a
studio space and the necessary musical
instruments for our cover shoot!”
EDITOR’S NOTE THE TEAM
Editor
Molebogeng Mangoale
Managing Director
Marvin Straight
Creative Director
Augustine Simetsi
Web editor & Layout artist
Thabang Letageng
Graphic Designer
Phindile Kganyago
Copy editor
Puseletso Ramontsha
Make-up artist
Koketso KC Kekana
Fashion stylist
Palesa Magoro
Social Media Manager
Vincent Tsediso Ramatsebe
Contributors
Jeanette Ramolula
Oreneile Tshetlo
Phindile Kganyago
DJ Simtronic
Vincent Tsediso Rmatsebe
Photographers
Praise Magidi
Anele Mkungela
Editor’s Playlist

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CONTENT
SPOTLIGHT:
Go Deep or Go Home with Chymamusique
15
05 OUT & ABOUT
08 WHAT’S NEW? WHAT’S HOT?
09 COVER FEATURE
Black Motion: The Sons of Culture. The
Sons of House Music
16 POSTER
18 LADIES OF HOUSE
*Top 5 Female House Music Vocalists in SA
*Meet Move-Shaker DJ Thabi Thabs
20 UP &COMING
*DJ Perfecto: From Humble Beginnings to
Hypnotic House Music
*Q &A with DJ Mlungu
23 GET IN THE SET
How To Market Yourself As A Musician
24 FEATURES
*Five Inspiring and Uplifting House Songs
*SA House Albums To Expect In 2015
26 REVIEWS & MUSIC
28 FASHION
Autumn In Fashion
30 SIMTRONICS’S CORNER
Software, Hardware and Gear Reviews
32 LEGEND
DJ Christos
Cover design: Phindile Kganyago
Make up : Koketso KC Kekakana
Photographers: Praise Magidi
Anele Mkungela

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By Tsediso Vincent Ramatsebe
As many South Africans
enjoyed their Sunday like any
other on 26 April, music fans
gathered at Truth in Midrand
to experience what was going
to be a sonic affair of music
and entertainment.
‘Raise the Roof’brought
together South African music
fans alike and it boasted four
massive stages hosted by
arguably the biggest music
labels in the country, mainly;
Soul Candi Live & Soulistic Mu-
sic (main stage), House Afrika,
Cashtime Life, Afrotainment
and Avant Garde Vintage .
Like every other big event,
there was a delay that lasted
about an hour which resulted
in artists such as Cuebur being
cut out of the line-up. But
no complaints reached the
organisers, as normal party
goers arrived two hours after
the planned time of the start
of the event.
Both House Heads and Hip-
Hop Heads were spoiled for a
choice between either one of
the house music stages or the
hip hop stage but for some, it
was a difficult choice to make
as to which of the stages was
perfect to spend the night at.
Artists on the line-up included
Afrotainment boss Dj Tira, Sou-
listic Music head honcho Black
Coffee, House Afrika veterans-
Vinni Da Vinci, DJ Christos and
Ralf Gum and SAMA award
winner K.O amongst others.
The marvellous first lady of hip
hop, MS Cosmo, was also in
attendance.
Everything ran smoothly and
as far as we know, no violent
activities occurred at the
event. Alcohol and beverages
were also reasonably priced,
security was perfect and of
course, the party environment
was amazing.
Raise the Roof will be an an-
nual event from henceforth so
look out for it next year!
Images: Sihle Oliphant
What Went Down: Raise The Roof Event
Out & About

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By Jeanette Ramolula
Out & About
As the rest of the world was spending time with their
loved ones on Valentine’s day, house music lovers
gathered at the National Botanical Garden in Preto-
ria where one of the biggest house music concerts,
Campus House Tour, was taking place.
The event was kick-started by DJ Skeelo who wel-
comed people as they walked in with his music. He
was then followed by a young lady by the name of
Holly who got everybody on their feet with her danc-
ing. 19 year old Holly stated that she started singing
at the age of 13 and she has since fell in love with
house music.
Crazy White Boy were also among the headliners for
the night and they played one of their classic songs
‘Love you better’that had the crowd dance and sing
along, resonating well with the special day for lovers.
Crazy White Boy was then followed by one of the leg-
ends of house/kwaito music Oskido. Oskido, founder
of Kalawa Jazmee, has played a very instrumental
role in the careers of numerous artists such as Bongo
Maffin, Mafikizolo, Black Motion and Uhuru just to
mention a few. Oskido is currently working with the
first ever South African X factor winners, Four, and
when asked when going to release he uttered one
word with a smile,“soon”.
When DJ Shimza got on stage, a new atmosphere in
the crowd was felt. This was an appreciative mood
of his music as he also played one of the biggest hit
songs in December, Koze Kuse by DJ Merlon.
DJ Shimza was followed by the‘god of house’as
one student referred to him, Black Coffee. Upon his
arrival, there was a loud response from the crowd
and a sense of relief after they had waited long in
anticipation for his performance. Even though he did
not play for long, the crowd was satisfied with the
bit they got. One lady who had missed the Campus
House Tour in Durban and had subsequently trav-
eled all the way to Pretoria, described Black Coffee as
a pure genius that has outdone South Africa in terms
of his music.
As the saying goes, all good things come to an end.
House music is one of the biggest music genres in
South Africa and we are truly grateful for it. What
better way is there to spend Valentine’s Day than a
sonic night of house music with the likes of Shimza
and Black Coffee? This was definitely a day well spent
for all the house music lovers.
Images: Sihle Oliphant
House Heads Celebrate Valentine’s
Day With Campus House Invasion

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On the 31st of January we headed to the
RAG farm at the University of Pretoria for
the TuksRAG afterparty. The event kick
started at 12pm and the line-up included
DJ Fresh, Euphonik, TheJosh DJ and others.
Despite the low-attendance as compared
to previous years, the vibe was okay and
the sets of the DJswere quite spectacular
as well. The Josh DJ sure knows how to
turn a party upside down. He kept music
lovers up on their feet with his house,
kwaito and hip hop mix.
When we caught up with DJ Fresh back-
stage, he revealed that Club Culture will
be making its way back on our television
screens soon and after that, we can expect
an F.eu project. Euphonik also revealed
that he is currently in studio working with
DJ Kent on another Kentphonik album.
TuksRAG Afterparty
Images: Praise Magidi
Out & About

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Is He South Africa’s or the World’s Youngest DJ?
If you haven’t heard about DJ Arch Junior well, then you better know that he could be South Africa’s next deejay sensation!
Arch Junior is only two years old but already he’s received a bursary to study the Soul Candi 101 course at Boston Media
House. Trust us, by the age of eight we bet this kid will already be producing music! DJ Arch Junior is entertaining and he’s
a pleasure to watch. For a two year old, his rhythm is just remarkable and his skills on the 1s and 2s are absolutely impres-
sive. If you’d like to catch a glimpse of him in action, watch his videos on YouTube.
Da Capo and Chymamusique Shine Bright
Congratulations to two of Limpopo’s finest DJs Chymamusique and Da Capo for being nominated for the F.A.M.E (Film,
Arts, Music & Entertainment) Awards. The F.A.M.E Awards are the first annual entertainment awards in Limpopo that aim
to honour artists from the province. The two have been nominated for the Best Male and Best Dance Artists categories. In
addition to this, Chymamusique won a Metro Fm Award for Best Newcomer this year and Da Capo was also nominated for
the Best Dance category in the SAMAs 2015, although Black Motion won the award. The F.A.M.E Awards will take place on
9 May at the University of Limpopo’s Multi Purpose Centre.
DJ Sbu Expands His Entrepreneurial Ventures
Big things are also happening for DJ Sbu but we are not surprised because the 37 year old is a hustler of note for sure! Not
only has he been promoting his new locally produced energy drink MoFaya over the past couple of months but DJ Sbu is
venturing into other entrepreneurial opportunities that will see him introduce a local bread called Nzo and toilet papers
called Ntonfontofo soon. Rumours are that he is also busy with an entrepreneurship televison show. Sbu also recently
released his album called Mo Faya. We like the Tembisa born DJ for his entrepreneurial flair and we hope many young
people out there will be inspired by his ambition to succeed and also his commitment to changing the lives of others.
TV Show 1s and 2s About To Make A Comeback
SABC 1’s talent deejay search competition is about to make a comeback on our TV screens soon with auditions gaving
been held in April. DJ Mshega won the competition last year. The show is once again set to discover young deejays that
not only show talent and skills on the turntables but also on production as well.
In our latest House music news, it seems like all of our favourite artists are out
there grinding and hustling to make 2015 the best it can be for their careers. In
this feature, we provide you a low-down on all the latest entertainment news in
the world of house and dance music.
What’s New? What’s Hot?

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“WE DO MUSIC LIKE WE LIVE.
WE WANT OUR MUSIC TO PROJECT LIFE”
- BLACK MOTION
Image: Anele Mkungela
Cover Story

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Following the success of their debut album Talking to the Drums in 2011, Black
Motion has raised its own standards with their recent gold-selling and SAMA
Award winning album titled Fortune Teller. Their execution of the use of African
instruments to create an enchanting tribal sound is synonymous to their custom
sound and is what has always set them apart. Although they have only been
in the industry for five years, Black Motion has given us so much music that it
would be appropriate to call them legends-in-the-making, writes
Molebogeng Mangoale.
Black Motion: The Sons of Culture.
The Sons of House Music
Rob ‘DJ Murdah’Mahosana & Thabo ‘Smol’Mabogwane of Black Motion.
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For any house music fan, they would agree that Black Motion is
one of the biggest house music acts in the country and hence, I
wasn’t surprised when excitement ran high in my team with the
anticipated one-on-one interview with the impeccable talent
and respected house music duo that is Black Motion.
There’s absolutely no doubt that these guys are good at what
they do. From the time they broke into the music industry with
their timeless smash hit‘Banane Mavoko’in 2010, Black Motion
has remained a formidable force in the house music fraternity to
be reckoned with. When they tell the story of how they hustled
to get their breakthrough song‘Banane Mavoko’out there, it is
motivating to see where hard-work and determination has taken
these two young men. Not only have they had a flourishing
musical journey so far but they have become savvy businessmen
as well, investing into the property industry.Over the years they
have brought us many memorable songs and just a couple of
months ago, they went gold in 49 days with their latest album
Fortune Teller which includes amongst other hits tracks such as
‘Rainbow’and‘Thamokuro’.
Robert‘DJ Murdah’Mahosana and Thabo‘Smol’Mabogwane
joined forces in 2010 to form Black Motion. Born and bred in
Soshanguve – Pretoria, the two young men had separately been
producing music before they met and when they got together,
their partnership took them to greater heights. Their sound,
which has elements of jazz, tribal and African musical rhythm, is
what distinguishes them. Most importantly though, their sound
is indicative of their deep-rooted love for African culture.
We meet them on a hot summer Wednesday at the University
of Pretoria’s main campus. Despite their local and international
popularity, we are amazed by how the two gentlemen do not
display any indication of super stardom demeanor.Throughout
our conversation with them, their humility and humour does
not go unnoticed and this of course, makes everyone in The Set
Magazine team feel at ease with them.
We go from talking about the overall level of the South African
music industry, the art of producing music, fame and more. One
topic however that keeps recurring in our conversation is the
word‘culture’. The two gentlemen express their concern about
the overall diminishing role of culture among our young people
in the modern times we live in. Smol is quick to point out how
it’s not so common nowadays to see young people engag-
ing in cultural activities or even showing pride in their cultural
backgrounds. Black Motion boldly states that it is about bringing
the culture back, it is about creating awareness that our African
cultures make us different from the rest of the world and that is
something to be proud of.
We sat down with them to get to know them better and here is
what they had to say... Continued on the next page
IMAGES : Praise Magidi
Cover Story

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YOUR LATEST ALBUM FORTUNE TELLER WENT GOLD IN 49 DAYS.
THAT IS SUCH A HUGE ACHIEVEMENT. HOW DID THIS MAKE YOU
GUYS FEEL?
When we do our music, we don’t do it because we want to sell.
We do music because we want to project what we feel. Going
gold was a surprise, we are still celebrating even now. If the
album went gold in 49 days, that means platinum is just near!
WHEN YOU GUYS CAME INTO THE INDUSTRY IN 2010, YOUR
SOUND WAS VERY DIFFERENT TO WHAT WE WERE USED TO
WITH THE INFUSION OF THE USE OF AFRICAN MUSICAL INSTRU-
MENTS. HOW HAVE YOU BEEN ABLE TO MAINTAIN THAT SOUND
THROUGHOUT THE YEARS?
It’s all in a matter of doing what you want to do. When we
produce, we just do us. Our sound has remained the same since
2010 but through travelling, we take a whole lot of ideas from the
continent and everywhere where we go. It’s a matter of adding
something into our signature. We add jazz and African rhythm
however, the signature of Black Motion is always there. It’s all a
matter of not following a trend but setting one.
THE ENERGY THAT YOU GUYS DISPLAY ON STAGE IS AMAZING!
WHERE DOES IT ALL COME FROM?!
It’s our music. When we are on stage, we enjoy what we do and
hence people also enjoy what we do. We challenge ourselves that
whatever that happens on stage, whatever that happens …let’s
just ride with the flow.
YOU HAVE WORKED WITH SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN
THE SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC INDUSTRY INCLUDING AMONGST
OTHERS THE LEGENDARY BLACK COFFEE. IS THERE ANYONE ELSE
THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO WORK WITH IN THE FUTURE?
We’ve decided not to just work anybody now but also [work] with
our forgotten living legends, especially jazz musicians.
YOU HAVE PLAYED AT THE MIAMI WINTER MUSIC CONFERENCE
NOT TO MENTION THAT YOU’VE ALSO BEEN PLAYING QUITE A
LOT IN THE AFRICAN CONTINENT AS WELL. WHY DO YOU THINK
THE WORLD HAS ITS ATTENTION ON SOUTH AFRICA RIGHT NOW
WHEN IT COMES TO HOUSE MUSIC?
South Africa has played a huge role in terms of contributing to
house music in the world. The likes of DJ Fresh have contributed
to what house music is today. Producers overseas are getting
tracks from this side so now eyes are on South Africa when it
comes to music. That is why even in the Miami Music Conference,
the South African party is the biggest.
HOW IS THE HOUSE MUSIC SCENE INTERNATIONALLY AS COM-
PARED TO HERE BACK HOME?
[Internationally] clubs are clubs for music. It’s not a fashion
show, it’s not about how much one can spend in the club or who
spends how much. It is a culture of music and dancing whereas
in South Africa when you go clubbing it’s all about who’s wear-
ing what, what car one is driving, what’s the latest thing etc.
Overseas there is no‘song of the moment’. Every song is a classic
every day. They go to the club to dance, to listen to the music…
that is why the culture is so alive there.
YOU GUYS HAVE ALSO PLAYED A LOT IN AFRICA. WHICH
COUNTRY WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR FAVOURITE TO PERFORM AT
EXCLUDING SOUTH AFRICA OF COURSE?
Mozambique in Maputo. The vibe there is amazing!
IMAGE: Anele Mkungela
IMAGE : Praise Magidi
Cover Story

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SOMETIMES WHEN PEOPLW ARE IN THE PUBLIC EYE, THEY TEND
TO LOSE WHO THEY ARE AND FAME CONSUMES THEM. HOW DO
YOU GUYS MAINTAIN TO BE HUMBLE DESPITE YOUR POPULAR-
ITY?
We don’t need to maintain [the fame]. You just need to be who
you are.
SO WHAT ARE THE GREATEST LESSONS THAT THE MUSIC INDUS-
TRY OR FAME HAS TAUGHT YOU?
Never make friends! There are also a lot of pretenders as well, a
person will want you just because of your name.
It’s all about knowing your hustle, it’s all about not being fake.
At the end of the day, we didn’t do this for fame. It’s not about
power or money, it’s about respect. If you have respect, you
have everything.
OSKIDO HAS PLAYED A VERY INSTRUMENTAL ROLE IN SHAPING
WHERE BLACK MOTION IS TODAY. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED
FROM HIM AS A MENTOR?
We learned that clothes [material things] won’t get you a future.
When you hang around Oskido, it’s like you are hanging around
a university. You get to learn a whole lot of things from him. You
get to see his actions. Behind his name, there is a whole lot. He’s
shaped us in a way of knowing what to do and having a plan. It’s
not about the fame, it’s not about the money, it is about sustain-
ing.
BLACK MOTION IS ALSO UNDOUBTEDLY ONE OF THE MOST
ADMIRED AND RESPECTED HOUSE MUSIC ACTS IN THE SOUTH
AFRICAN MUSIC INDUSTRY. HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL TO
KNOW THAT SOSHANGUVE, PRETORIA AND THE REST OF SOUTH
AFRICA HAS YOUR BACK? WHAT’S YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH
YOUR FANS?
We don’t believe in having fans, we want to have friends. When
you have friends all over, you know you are safe. You don’t have
to worry about people turning their back on you. It’s all about
treating the people with respect and they will treat you back
with respect as well.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU IN TERMS OF CREATING MUSIC?
Life. We do music like we live, we want our music to project‘LIFE’.
We wake up and we do music, it’s part of our life.
HOW WAS THE VIBE WHEN YOU GUYS MADE THE TRACK‘RAIN-
BOW’?
Rainbow is the last track we did in our shack [studio].Rainbow
is a track that has drums. It is our signature but then again it is
musical!
We wanted to do a classic song. We presented the song at the
Redbull Academy two years back. When we make music, we
don’t make it for it to be the song of the moment. When you plan
on a song being a hit, you plan for it to be a song of the moment.
In our own right [Rainbow] is our classic, it is our music and to
our luck, people loved it.
WHAT KIND OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO BESIDES HOUSE MU-
SIC?
We listen to a whole lot of Jazz, tribal, neo-soul, African music,
African Jazz etc.
Those genres shape our sound a lot. Those artists don’t make
music because they have the instruments, they make music
because they want you to understand the level at which they are
at when they make their music. Philip Tabane didn’t go to school
but he’s a doctor because he discovered a sound. The depth of
his music is what made him to be a doctor today. He does music
and you get lost.
That’s what inspires us. We don’t make music because we have
the musical instruments. Music is a journey for us, we want you
to travel with us...
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE HOUSE MUSIC ARTISTS IN THE
COUNTRY RIGHT NOW?
EmoBoys, Dvine Brothers and Culoe De Song.
AND WHAT DO YOU GUYS DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
[Laughs] We chill and live! We watch things like National Geo-
graphic. The life that the animals live show that in a jungle, you
have to survive. So when you wake up, you have to hustle! We
Cover Story

14 | DESIGN MGZ 6
put ourselves in that situation as if we are in a jungle. It’s a lot of
things that inspire us so even when we are just chilling, we just
study life.
WOULD YOU CONSIDER GOING TO SCHOOL TO EXPAND YOUR
KNOWLEDGE ABOUT MUSIC?
Ja, if the time is there. We didn’t make it in school, but we
definitely know the dynamics of the business side of music.
When you get into music, eventually you will have to work with
accountants and all that and that expands your knowledge. It’s
about learning. There are different ways in which people can be
involved in music. Know your stuff about the business side of
music. One needs to know about the logistics behind the music.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO UP-AND-COMING ARTISTS?
A whole lot of catz rely on connections too much. We believe in
hard-work. If you got it, you got it. If you have passion for music,
you have it.
LASTLY, WHAT DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS DOES BLACK MOTION
HAVE (AS WE ARE LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE)?
We were told that when you are successful, that’s when you have
made somebody else successful. It would be nice for us to know
that we have started something for a person and they have a
future in it. Our dream is to make South Africa stand out in terms
of music.
Additional reporting by Anele Mkungela.
Illustration: Boitumelo Mmmela
Cover Story

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 15
You have your own record label. Does this mean you are an independent
artist?
Yes, I am very independent. I can do anything I want to do whenever I want to. I
don’t sign anyone under the record label, I don’t want to bind anyone. I opened
the label to push other guys because I know there are many talented people that
just put their music away on Data File Host. I also try to make sure that my guys’
music gets to those big labels that I work with.
Who do you work with under your label?
I’m working with Brazo wa Afrika, Dvine Brothers. Tecknique etc.
Do you encounter any challenges as a businessman?
On the music side of things it has to be piracy- when people take our music and
give it out for free.
A number of artists have been going along the route of establishing their
own record labels. As a record label owner yourself do you think this is a
move in the right direction for our artists?
It’s not a good thing. It takes many things for one to have a record label for
instance a studio, equipment, an office etc. There are also laws binding record
labels such as the company registrations.
You made it into the finals of 1s and 2s on SABC1. Why did you decide to en-
ter the competition and what experience do you take away from the show?
I’m someone that likes exploring. I entered the show so I can see what is happen-
ing and also to get to know people that are in the industry. Now I have an idea of
how things work [in television production].
Who do you look up to in the industry?
Hmmm...I look up to no one. As I said, I grew up in church and taught myself how
to play music and produce, I’m self taught. Hence sometimes one makes mistakes
but mistakes are just part of life. So I think I just look up to myself.
With so many house music DJs and producers out there, how do you stay
different with your music?
My sound is Jazz influenced so every song of mine has to have keys, a bassline
and also a string to keep the mood flowing.
Why did you choose house music? You played piano in church...you could
have been a gospel artist or that guy that plays piano in church...
[Laughs] Because I can’t sing! It was also because of my age group and my sur-
rounding that I chose house music.
What is it that your fans don’t know about you?
I listen to every kind of music and I also don’t criticise other people’s music.
Besides music, what are your dreams and aspirations as an individual?
I would like to give back one day and do some charity work. I’d also like to start a
family and start having babies [Laughs].
Who do you wish to work with in the industry someday?
Internationally, it has to be Louie Vega and in South Africa, Zamajobe and
Simphiwe Dana. I would also like to work with Afrotraction as well.
GoDeep or Go Home With
Chymamusique
Written by Molebogeng Mangoale
He is the rising star of house music and a talented deep house
producer of note. Collen Mmotla aka Chymamusique who
hails from Burgersfort between Mpumalanga and Limpopo,
recently won a Metro FM Award for ‘Best New Artist’.
An Analytical Chemistry graduate from the Tshwane Univer-
sity of Technology and a Media Studies graduate as well from
Boston City Campus, Chyma is indeed a man of many talents.
Last year he made it to the finals of 1s and 2s, an SABC deejay
search talent show.
Although his parents wanted him to be a mining engineer,
music has always been a part of Chymamusique’s life with
him playing piano, drums and base guitar in church when
he was growing up. He says that he started learning how to
produce music in 2005, producing anything from gospel to
RnB. It was in 2006 when he moved to Joburg that he started
producing house music. He says although he didn’t study
production, he knows the basics of sound engineering.
His debut album ‘Gift of Sound’ which was released in 2014,
is a great work of art and a true reflection of his exquisite
taste when it comes to deep house. Chymamusique’s music
production skills have gained him a very respected role from
fans and fellow artists alike within the house music fraternity.
The Set Magazine caught up with him
to find out more about him and here is
what he had to say:
Spotlight

18 | DESIGN MGZ 6
Thiwe
Known to others as the first lady of Soulistic
Music, Thiwe Mbola is a talented vocal-
ist who’s worked with artists such as Black
Coffee, DJ Ganyani and Sai & Ribatone
amongst others. She released her first debut
album in 2007 under 999 Music and her big
break came when Black Coffee remixed one
of her songs ‘Crazy,’ which led to several
other remixes from renowned local and
international house music producers such
as Charles Webster and Quintin Harris. Her
powerful voice and nostalgic music makes
her one of our top five female vocalists in
the country.
Busiswa aka Kalawa Chikita ( Busiswa
Gqulo)
From DJ Zinhle’s ‘My name is’, Busiswa also
known as the Kalawa Chikita, has estab-
lished herself by making music that keeps
everyone sweating on the dance floor such
as ‘Ngoku’ and ‘Lahla’. Busiswa started her
music career back in 2004 when she used
to perform her poetry at corporate events,
campus talent shows, festivals, and small
poetry sessions and also hosted her own
monthly poetry events at the Bat Centre in
Durban. It is then that she met one of the
DJs from UHURU and was later signed to
Kalawa Jazzmee Records.
What makes her one of the top female
vocalists is that she is an enthusiastic
performer and she has changed the dance
music scene since her discovery. She was
included in the Mail and Guardian’s Top
200 Young South African and nominated in
the Channel O Africa Music Video Award.
Bucie (Busisiwe Nqwiliwo)
Bucie’s career peaked in 2007 when she col-
laborated with Black Coffee in the hit single
‘Turn Me On’ which gained international
popularity. This served only as the begin-
ning for the ‘princess of house’. Like most
artists, Bucie started singing at school and
church with friends. She now stands as the
co-owner of Demor Music. Bucie together
with Black Coffee later released another
hit song ‘Superman’ which earned them
duo nominations at the American Music
Awards, Metro FM Awards and also at the
2011 Winter Music Conference Awards in
Miami to mention a few.
Bucie recently won a SAMA award for Best
Female Artist and her single ‘Easy to Love’
which was a major hit, peaked at number 9
on South Africa’s official music chart. Her
beautiful and angelic voice has made her
recognised both locally and internationally.
Xoli M
Xoli M is not only a singer but also a song
writer. Her rise to fame began with the hit
Top 5 Female House Music Vocalists In SA
If you want fresh, raw talent, you will find it in South Africa with women leading the race. These tal-
ented female vocalists have changed the house scene immensely. We have compiled a list of the top five
female house music vocalists in South Africa and in no particular order, here they are
- By JEANETTE RAMOLULA
track ‘Set Me Free’ on which she was fea-
tured by Black Motion. Xoli M has worked
with other renowned artists such as DJ
Qness, Mckenzie and international produc-
ers such as DJ Sylivi and DJ Malvado.
‘Rainbow’, the recent single on which she
was featured on with Black Motion was
nominated as Song of the Year in the 14th
Metro FM Awards 2015.
Thandi Draai
She used music as her escape to reality little
did she know she will one day be recognised
for it. Thandi Draai started off her music
career as a little girl. Apart from working
with some big names sin the industry such
as Da Capo, Culoe De Song and DJ Shimza,
Thandi Draai has established herself as a
talented and hardworking vocalist and a
rising DJ and producer. Her work has also
been remixed by renowned DJs such as At-
jazz, DJ Shimza, Andyboi and many more.
What makes her one of the top female
vocalist is the fact that she does not limit
herself to one genre of music. She is always
willing to try new things and grow herself
as an artist. There’s no denying that this
young woman is one of the most formi-
dable female vocalists in the house music
industry.
Even though house music is a male domi-
nated industry, women have managed to
make a way by changing the house music
scene with their voices and skills. The above
mentioned women, in no particular order
have really reached down to elements that
define house music by using their talents
and this is what makes them our top 5
female house music vocalists.
Pictured: Thandi Draai
IMAGE: Twitter.com
Ladies of House

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 19
DJ Thabi Thabs is a young,
ambitious woman from
Tembisa who has
been taking
radio waves by
storm with her
Friday mixes
at Gauteng’s no 1
youth radio station Y FM.
She’s one of the rising female
deejays in the house music
scene and The Set Magazine
caught up with her to find out
more about this go-getter.
- By Phindile Kganyago
YOU ARE A YOUNG STAR FULL OF PAS-
SION AND LOVE FOR HOUSE MUSIC.
WHAT MAKES YOU TICK?
Seeing a young lady throw away their future
makes me tick more than anything else on
earth.
DO YOU FIND THAT THE HOUSE MUSIC
INDUSTRY, INCLUDING FANS AS WELL, IS
OPEN TO FEMALE TALENT?
Yeah times have changed now, they are
now open. I have faith that in time they will
realize that we can be as good as men, if not
better.
ARE THERE ANY CHALLENGES OF BEING
A FEMALE HOUSE MUSIC DEEJAY?
I personally believe your greatest challenge
as a female DJ is having the ability to be
compared to men yet still come out the
best. You should not get into the industry
to compete with other women, although
that is what most female DJs do. One needs
to have the ability to stand out from all the
men who still believe that women belong in
the kitchen.
YOU EMERGED AS THE WINNER OF ‘MO
FLAVA’S FEMALE DJ SEARCH’, HOW HAS
THAT EXPERIENCE CHANGED YOUR
LIFE?
Wow! That competition changed my life so
much. I started gaining recognition from it,
got myself a slot on YFM’s YTKO and I feel
it helped me strengthen my self-esteem and
have confidence in what I do. Above all it
helped me build a brand.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF HOUSE MUSIC
IN SA? ON A SCALE OF 1 TO 10, HOW
WOULD YOU RATE IT?
On a scale of 1-10 I would rate it at 7. I still
feel we have great talent but we only focus
on pushing our music nationally instead
of internationally. There is more talent out
there but it’s not given the platform, people
only want to help people they know, being
scared to take risks.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR ASSOCIATION
WITH YFM. ARE THERE ANY FUTURE
PLANS BETWEEN YOU AND THE YOUTH
RADIO STATION?
I’m a Friday YTKO DJ. I do believe I’ve
done and am still doing a great job and
hope the radio station keeps me as I’m hop-
ing to gain as much exposure and growth
from the sta-
tion.
WHAT ARE
YOUR FUTURE
PLANS FOR
2015 AND BE-
YOND WITH
REGARDS TO
YOUR

DJING
CAREER?
I want
to release singles
with people I believe
make the greatest
music. I want to
work on growing my
brand inside and outside SA. I would love
to make a difference in the lives of women
who are burdened by life. I want to moti-
vate and inspire them. I wish to get slots in
all the big events held in SA and get an in-
ternational gig and more. Most importantly
I want to build and strengthen my brand.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO PEOPLE,
INCLUDING WOMEN, WHO WANT TO GET
INTO THE HOUSE MUSIC INDUSTRY?
The industry is not for the faint hearted. If
you don’t have passion and patience and
believe short cuts will get you there, your
downfall is bound to be as quick as your
way to it all. The industry has no gender
preference [and] what you think you can
do is what you are most likely to achieve.
Set yourself free from boundaries and be
a person who lives in possibilities. Life is
what you make of it. Stand up and claim
what is yours.
Image:Facebook.com/djthabithabs
Meet Move and Shaker
DJ Thabi Thabs
Ladies of House

22 | DESIGN MGZ 6
By Phindile Kganyago & Molebogeng Mangoale
How did the name DJ Mlungu come about?
Back in the day a few years ago I used to use my
Christian name Ivor Cleary as my dj name. [At]
that time social media was starting to boom in
our country and people were battling to find me
and to say my name. So they were like “no man,
you’re not DJ Ivory what what, you’re DJ Mlungu”.
I also toured for many years as DJ Cleo’s tour dj
and he also used to introduce me on stage as DJ
Mlungu, I liked the name and it stuck.
Where were you born and raised?
Mbombela, Mpumalanga.
How and when did you develop the love/ pas-
sion for house music?
In 2002 when I moved to Johannesburg. Back
home I was only really exposed to “rave” you
could say, and when I started attending school
in Johannesburg kids out here were listening to
“house” and I fell in love with the groove of house
and the sound of it.
Q & A With DJ Mlungu
Who inspires your music career and also
generally in life?
Many people. I take something from everyone.
Everyone whom I’m close to gives me some sort
of inspiration to go further. I love being around
empowering people and people who are doing
great things for themselves especially entrepre-
neurs. It gives you strength knowing there are
people out there making it, so you can [make it]
as well.
How has the show 1’s and 2’s had an impact on
your music career?
1’s and 2’s was a great experience. It has impact-
ed positively on all fronts, it exposed my brand
to more of South Africans. The show received an
average of 3 million views a week according to
TVSA reports [so] people always come up to me
and congratulate me for the work I’ve done on
the show and there’s a lot of interest in the brand
from a consumer point of view.
You’ve worked with DJ Cleo and DJ Clock pre-
viously, what next can we expect from you?
I’m currently working on my single which
features artists like Charlene Lai , Trademark &
Zinhle Ngidi. [There’s also]more good music to be
released under 1ST JHB MUSIC in 2015.
What would say are the challenges that come
with being a DJ?
Trying to stand out from the rest of your peers.
How do you react to a negative crowd?
I don’t believe in such, people came out to dance,
so if they are not dancing obviously the music is
not right, give the people what they want.
How did you cope with your career as a DJ
and also studying?
That’s a tough question… What many people don’t
know is while 1’s and 2’s was being filmed I was
doing my final year in varsity so I was juggling
between the TV show, gigs and studying at the
same time. Sitting back and wondering to myself
how I did it all still amazes me, but I guess when
you want something so bad and are so passionate
about it you just find time and make things work.
Who do you wish to work with in the industry
in the future?
Thembi Seete and Bucie are my two ultimate
goals.
What are your goals and future plans in 2015
and onwards?
My goals for 2015 are [producing] a lot of good
quality releases musically, growing the brand as
much as possible and also touring South Africa
more.
Fun questions...
If I had a time travel machine I would go to....
Back to 2010/2011. Loved those years.
If I wasn’t a DJ I would be...
A pilot… I love travelling.
The most stupid thing I’ve ever done is....
There’s many things *hides*
The one talent I’ll never openly admit to having
is.....
Driving, eating and talking on the phone as the
same time.
The first thing that came to my mind when I
woke up this morning is....
What’s for breakfast ... I love food.
If I could be invisible for 24 hours I would....
Go see what certain people get up to...
The worst thing somebody has walked on me
doing is...
I don’t usually get caught when I’m up to mischief
:)
My favourite superhero is...
Wolverine
Up & Coming

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 23
Get in The Set
1. Look The Part
First impressions are lasting impressions. Understand your target audience and make sure that your look is appealing to them.
Remember that you are a brand – stand out, be unique. Make a good impression and dress for success. And yes, that includes
“dressing”your product. Invest in good photography and graphic designing. Make it a point that your album art and posters are
on point.
2. Feel The Music
Apart from working hard to promote yourself, you need to play hard. While performing stay focused and keep your head in
the game. You need to love and feel the music. If you play with passion you will give your audience a musical experience which
they will remember. In time they will be back for more with their chinas and their chinas’chinas so that they too can share this
experience. In this way word of mouth works in your favour, proving once more that good news does travel fast.
3. Focus On Sound
Your music speaks volumes. If your listeners like what they hear they will make it a point that they follow your work. Others will
even go out of their way to find you if they hear you playing for the first time and fall in love. In order to create the best sound
that you can possibly produce you will need to invest in good DJ software applications.You also need to invest your time in
creating something memorable. Refine your sound. In the end, your investment will yield great returns.
4. Wake Up – Smell The Coffee
Get up and get your hustle on. Try to never turn down a gig, even if it is a small event. The important thing is getting your name
out there. You need to work tirelessly in spreading the word and making sure that people know who you are. Although not
everyone can afford a marketing team initially, it is advisable that you get a few people to help you get your name on people’s
lips. Never take for granted the power of word of mouth.
5. Taste Success
We’ve all heard the expression“You are what you eat”but in this industry, you are who you meet. Make it a point to stay
connected to the relevant people – to a large extent, your success depends on this. Get to know your fellow musicians and
support them. They will support you as well and if you form a close enough alliance,their fans will end up being your fans (free
marketing for you). Lastly, be careful not to burn the bridges that you crossed on your road to success.
We’d like to give a special shout-out to DJ Big Vic (@BigVic_DJ) for helping contribute to some of the ideas in this article!
Social media seems to be the obvious tool to use when marketing yourself as a musician. However, many
of those who have gone far in the industry understand that the use of social media alone is nowhere near
enough to keep you ahead of the competition. There are other ways of unconventionally creating awareness
about your brand without running your internet usage through the roof. Adequately marketing yourself may
be daunting for those who don’t have the know-how.Getting started may be overwhelming and confusing,
which is why we at The Set Magazine will help you make some sense of it, writes Oreneile Tshetlo.
How To Market Yourself
As A Musician

24 | DESIGN MGZ 6
BLACK COFFEE FT VUYO-“DON’T YOU GIVE UP”
This has to be one of the most underrated and less known
house songs however, its message is beautiful beyond
words. It was after we watched Black Coffee’s Africa Rising
DVD that we came across the song and this has to be one of
the best motivational house jams ever created. It is a soul-
ful jam filled with a message of optimism. Vuyo’s powerful
voice also adds an emotional element to it. His exquisite
voice adds an essence of hope in this song.
CULOE DE SONG-“THE BRIGHT FOREST”
Sometimes a song doesn’t have to have powerful lyrics or a
talented vocalist in order for it to take you to cloud nine. As
we said, the power of house music lies in the way it makes
one feel and this track is guaranteed to have you in a hyp-
notic trance. The beautiful thing about“The Bright Forest”
is that it takes you into a world you can’t describe, a world
where you and Culoe’s deep, cinematic and tribal sounds
coexist peacefully together. Its hypnotic elements are just
too magical to narrate. Although the man himself notably
has numerous hits and is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s
most gifted producers, this has to be one of his best offer-
ings. You know a song is too good when you can’t even
describe how it makes you feel.
CANDI STANTON (EUPHONIK & CHRIS SEN REMIX) -“HAL-
FIVE INSPIRING AND UPLIFTING
HOUSE SONGS
Music holds the power to inspire us. We find the comfort in it from different musical genres
and thensame goes for House music. More than just the upbeat and soulful sounds, the
drums and the vocals, the power of House music lies in the way it makes one feel. House
music possesses the power to heal us, the power to inspire us and also to make us realise
that nothing is impossible in this world. We have compiled a list of our top five favourite
South African House songs that inspire us and we hope they’ll do the same for you.
LELUJAH ANYWAY”
This house rendition of Candi Staton’s“Hallelujah Anyway”is one
of the most well-known and inspiring house songs. This song
evokes emotion even to the most non-religious person. It is the
perfect emulation of what gospel and house music can do when
combined. The lyrics will lift one’s spirit in any given circum-
stance.
DJ SBU FT NAAK MUSIQ-“QINA”
When a great DJ meets a talented vocalist, there’s no room for
disappointment.That’s exactly how we feel about this song, given
its uplifting lyrics executed beautifully in the Xhosa language.
It is all about encouraging one not to give up in life even in the
face of adversities.
DJ QNESS FT OLUHLE-“FUGAMA UNAMATHE”
This song was a major hit in its prime. Its popularity resonated
well across nightclubs to the dusty streets of townships where
house music is embraced as a way of life .The lyrics are well
blended in the Shona, Zulu and Xhosa languages and the song
is all about encouraging one to kneel down and pray in times of
difficulty.
Features

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 25
Given that last year was
such a successful year when
it comes to house music, it
seems like 2015 will be even
better. Below is a list of artists
whose albums you can expect
to drop this year:
Kentphonik
Our favourite DJs Kent and
Euphonik are back in studio
to work on another collabo-
ration album. The last time
these worked together on
a Kentphonik album, they
gave us hits such as ‘Hap-
piness’ and ‘Masingita’. It’s
going to be interesting to see
what they have in store for
us this time around.
Bekzin Terries
Voslooorus born DJ and
producer Bekzin Terris will
be releasing his debut album
this year. A talented deep
house producer of note,
Bekzin Terris sure is one of
the country’s rising musical
stars in house music. He has
worked with the likes of Eu-
phonik, Kent and others. It is
only a matter of time we find
out what he’ll be offering
DJ Shimza-
Soulistic Music’s DJ Shimza
is also among the artists
that will be releasing their
albums this year. Although it
is not certain as to when we
can expect it to drop, he has
revealed on social media that
he is finally done with the
album.
Black Coffee
This undoubtedly has to
be the most anticipated
house music album of
2015 with the music mae-
stro having last released
an album in 2012. This
will be Black Coffee’s fifth
studio album. His previ-
ous album Africa Rising
became a huge success,
reaching double platinum
status and winning Best
Dance Album at the 2013
South African Music
Awards. ‘I Will Find You’
on which he features
Cara Frew, is one of the
jams which will feature
on the upcoming album.
The sound is deep with a
soulful touch and it has
received much appraisal
from fans as well as fellow
peers in the house mu-
sic scene. Although the
release date hasn’t been
announced yet, we are
certain that whatever it is
that Black Coffee is brew-
ing in the studio, fans sure
will not be disappointed!
Heavy K
The Drum Boss is yet
again to
deliver another album for
all the loyal house heads
out there. Heavk K was
the biggest hitmaker of
2013/2014 and he contin-
ues to give us more club
banging jams. He is one
young man of immeasur-
able talent and everything
he touches turns to gold.
Zano
We are excited to mention
that soulful music vocal-
ist Zano will be releasing
an album at the end of
June called Colours Of My
Soul. The talented vocal-
ist released the second
single from the upcoming
album in early February
titled ‘Oceans Apart’ on
which he also features
talented singer Thiwe on
the vocals. There’s no de-
nying that Zano is one of
the most gifted vocalists
in the country and we ab-
solutely just can’t wait to
hear what he has prepared
for the masses.
Soul Candi Selektor
Series (Limpopo Edi-
tion)
It is no doubt that
Limpopo has produced
some of the best house
music produc-
ers and it con-
tinues to do so.
Soul Candi will
be releasing the Limpopo
edition of the Selektor
Series soon with rising
star Punk Mbedzi, Chy-
mamusique and Brazo Wa
Afrika. Make sure you get
your hands on this one!
SA House Albums To
Expect In 2015
Features

26 | DESIGN MGZ 6
By MOLEBOGENG MANGOALE
Selected as the best South
African dance album for 2014
by iTunes, In My City reaf-
firms that house heads truly
appreciate only the best when
it comes to house music.
Released in 2014 under GOGO
Music, Ralf Gum does what
he does best and makes you
appreciate the beauty of deep,
soulful house with this ten
track album.
Every song is well executed. In
My City is the perfect replica
of what good soulful house
music is. Each song on the
album is accompanied with
exceptional vocals from a se-
lection of talented singers. It’s
quite clear that Gum wanted
only the best vocalists featured
on this album. He features the
likes of Monique Bingham,
Portia Monique, Omar, Jocelyn
Mathieu and legendary South
African Jazz musician Bra Hugh
Masekela among others. Bra
Hugh Masekela is featured
on two songs,‘With her hand’
and‘In the City’respectively.
‘In the City’is a timeless, afro
deep song with a touch of Bra
Hugh’s legendary trumpet.
After all, one can’t expect
anything less with these two
generations of pure musical
talent merging.
‘Love Core’is also one of our
favourite songs on the album.
Omar’s amazing vocals on
the song are just spectacular.
‘Free’on the other hand, cou-
pled with beautiful vocals from
the gorgeous Portia Monique,
REVIEW
has been an absolute hit in the
local dance scene. However,
the song that was on the mu-
sic charts for quite some time
is of course‘The Pap’. Ralf Gum
teams up once again with
American songbird Monique
Bingham on this one. The last
time these two teamed up was
in 2012 when they brought us
the mega hit‘Take Me to My
Love’. Ralf Gum also features
South African songbird KB on
the song‘My Angel’.
This is one of those albums
that will have you not skipping
a single track. Everything from
the percussions to the melo-
dies is just on point. In My City
is the perfect embodiment of
the best of soulful and deep
house music.
The title of the album is
influenced by Ralf Gum’s
decision, which he made in
2012, to make South Africa his
new home. This is Gum’s third
studio album, even though
his music career dates back
to 1990. His musical impec-
cability has made him one of
the best and highly acclaimed
deep house producers in the
world.
Every song on this album
is perfectionism at its best.
It’s quite clear that Ralf Gum
wanted to take his time with
this album and come up with a
masterpiece. If you appreciate
soulful deep house, then this
album is for you.
Rating: 9/10

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 27
1. Liquideep - You, We, I (Kaytronik I Kant Stop Dub)
2. Bob’ezy Feat. Mazola - Intombi (Original Mix)
3. Heavy-K Feat. Nokwazi - Sweetie (Original Mix)
4. Sante Feat. JUDGE - Awake (Agoria Remix )
5.Donald Feat. Bucie - Don’t Let It Burn (Original Mix)
6. Tale of Us - Distante (Original Mix)
7. Kid Fonque & D-Malice Feat. Clara Hill - All This Time (Original Mix)
8. Jonny Miller Feat. Cuebur & Sabrina Child - Painting of Life (OriginaMix)
9. Rancido Feat. Madison Groove - The Journey (Original Mix)
10. Rabs Vhafuwi - V8 (Original Mix)
Compiled by Vincent Tsediso Ramatsebe
Top Ten

28 | DESIGN MGZ 6
MALE FASHION: Must-Haves For This Autumn
Male fashion has taken a huge toll in the industry, it is no longer just about the Tuxedo.
It’s about the shoes, the accessories, the hair and more. The best worn thing by a man is
his cologne, added by his confidence!
Men’s fashion is more versatile now. A man can wear a pair of jeans a white tee and
sneakers and still look stylish. Men’s fashion is more retro and old fashioned...the
khakhis and rusty colours. They make fashion more fun in many ways but one. I compiled
these clothing items because they are for modern men with a modern edge for fashion!
It’s all about the hat, torn jeans, sweat pants, shoes and jackets. So this Autumn, make
sure that these items are not missing in your closet:
Autumn in Fashion: Mus
Fashion has grown enormously over the decade. It is not jus
highly misinterpreted in the past few years, it is now about ho
want people to see you. Don’t let trends foo
Fashion

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 29
FEMALE FASHION: Must-Haves
For This Season
A girl is at her best when she feels comfortable in
her own skin. Comfort is sexy, confidence is
sexier...
Jewellery is one of the most exciting
parts of fashion. Jewels make a simple
outfit look edgier. Gold has to be one of
the best accessories one can own, it can either be a
gold chain, ring or a watch.
One more exciting thing for us girls are nails. Warm
colours are trendy now, those are reds, pink, violet,
orange etc. They bring out one’s mood, bring out a
warm feel and complememt weather conditions.
Torn jeans look best no matter what the colour. They can be worn with a nice peep
toe heel or flats and very nice blazer or jacket. Add a side bag either big or small, and
you’ve definitely got a killer outfit!
st-Haves For this Season
st a trend for ladies anymore. Although fashion has been
ow you express yourself to the world. It is about how you
ol you, fashion fades but style is forever...
“Fashion. The art to express through clothing. My love, my passion. To me , Fashion is tailored for
the soul, a way to express the hidden hinders in our thoughts. Through fashion we tell a story.”
- Palesa K Magoro, The Set Magazine fashion stylist.

30 | DESIGN MGZ 6
DESCRIPTION
rekordbox™ is the best way of preparing and
managing your tracks, be it at home, in the
studio, or even on the plane! It allows you
to import music from other music manage-
ment software using the Bridge function or
by simply adding them into the software for
Simtronic’s Corner
Software
Rekordbox 3.0 (Professional DJ Music Management Software)
management. rekordbox will work out the
BPM and allow you to set hot cue and loop
points into the track, utilizing a full beat grid
view in advance, as well as color coding
your music and adding all the ID3 informa-
tion so it appears automatically later on
any rekordbox enabled Pioneer DJ player.
Working with rekordbox also means that
when tracks are exported to a USB key or SD
card (CDJ-2000NXS and CDJ-2000 only), the
waveforms are loaded instantly.
Review
Although this may seem like a software to
‘cheat’ or have things easy its important
to note that its really preparation only! you
can Only set Cue Points and loops in the
software but there is no way to use them in
the software, it all boils down to implementa-
tion of whatever may be prepared here. On
the downside its compatible with Pioneer
equipment only as it’s a software for and by
pioneer so if you manage your files there,
better use selected pioneer equipment for
implementation so the data can be read from
your USB. It also seems like the beatgridding
in this Rekordox has improved, after running
a bunch of tracks through it, they were spot
on, as opposed to just slightly off with older
versions. This software makes it possible to
use the magic ‘sync’ function on newer CDJs
which I personally feel could play a role in the
increase in unskilled DJs, arguable though as
one may feel otherwise.
Hardware
Pioneer XDJ-1000 (Performance Multi Player)
Description
Adopting the same advanced layout, size, and
ergonomic platter as the professional series
CDJ-2000NXS, the XDJ-1000 offers a wealth
of DJ performance functions and adds the
convenience of touch screen, utilizing a large
7-inch full-color high resolution touch panel
display for access and control of multiple
features. Users can quickly see and execute
a variety of commands that were once only
accessed through physical buttons. With
the convenience of its large touch display,
users are provided with faster control, more
information, and the ability to toggle through
different screens to make DJ performance
easier. The XDJ-1000 features a large JOG
wheel, PRO DJ Link, rekordbox® compatibility,
Wi-Fi® connectivity, and more.
Review
One of my favourite new toys
from the Pioneer HQ. Over the
last few years the DJ world
has been evolving to much digital
means, making it easy for the
Dj to do his/her job. With the XDJ-1000
Pioneer has removed the CD slots from the
player which I feel sucks big time but with the
evolving scene adaptation would do one some
good. USBs are much more manageable, and
the new touchscreen feature on the XDJ-
1000 makes it even more worthwhile. You can
easily browse through files unlike before and
make use of the touchscreen keyboard at-
tached to the
browse function for
keyword search of tracks. Now
that spells convenience if you ask
me, so CD or no CDs I’m 100% for the XDJ-
1000 as its actually much more affordable as
well, retailing on average R10 000 each.
Simtronic’s Corner

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 31
DESCRIPTION
Orbit Concepts has been trusted as one the
biggest names in Dj gear and it goes without
saying that their Jetpack Prime™ Dj bagpack
is one of, if not the most convenient DJ bag
out.
The JetPack is the ultimate all in one bag
that is uniquely designed to yield unprec-
edented comfort, versatility, and organiza-
tion. With specially designed compartments
and multiple pockets, The JetPack will defy
every notion of how much can be carried in
a laptop backpack. It offers enough space
for a laptop, audio cables, headphones and
microphones, CDs, DJ Mixer, tablet and more.
REVIEW
In addition to the awesome features the
Chosen Gear
Orbit Concepts Jetpack Prime DJ BagPack
Jetpack Prime comes with, my favourite
which really seals the deal for this bag is the
optional personal branding which you request
upon your purchase and receive your bag
with your Dj Logo branded on your Jetpack.
Big brand DJs such as, Afrojack, Pauly D,
Avicii to name a few, have owned or may still
own this specific bag so if you’re looking for
the next item to add to your Dj Gear collec-
tion, this comes highly recommended and at
a rather fair price at that. Averaging around
R2000 per bag.
Orbit Concepts have recently released news
on the Jetpack Remix Dj Bagpack which I’ll
review next when its available to the local
market.
One of the most exciting things about being
a DJ is the constant travelling from city to
city, country to country and continent to
continent. No matter how small the distance
travelled is, it’s always a thrill moving around
in-between gigs. However, it can get tiring
and draining the longer the distances are and
hence, one would advise a regular travel-
ling DJ to have a travel agent in their team,
who’ll organise all things travel, from flights
to accommodation and organise a chauffer
to drive you from show to show; to allow for
nap time or relaxation during the trips from
gig to gig and back home to avoid arriving at
gigs tired and worn out before set time and
also avoid car accidents on the road which
may occur when one drives tired or even
under the influence. A travel agent of course
comes at a cost but it’s much cheaper than
the risked costs should anything happen as
you drive yourself in between gigs. NOTE :
this isn’t a prerequisite to being a good DJ or
whatsoever, just a pointer to make your job
more convenient as you grow.
LIFESTYLE
Travel – Get A Travel Agent
Pre and Post Gig Endevours
Pre Gig
Research on the crowd in the area of show(s)
Collect all necessary music based on your
research should need be
Check out event hype on twitter/facebook
and get set up with the mood.
Post Gig
Eat Eat Eat! Check for feedback on your set
on social networks. Post remarks on the
show collectively, mention the promoter,
sponsors and venue. Avoid negative remarks,
remain positive. The fans had nothing to do
with whatever took place.
5 pointers ; Behaviour and general
etiquette
Greet club/venue staff
Be approachable
Don’t refer everyone to your manager, some-
times you refer your manager to the person.
Humble yourself at all times
Avoid acting a fool in public, someone looks
up to you.
IMAGE
Just like any other career field,
in the DJ world your image is what people
take home 1st
hand about you. Its therefore
very important that as you make your way
up the DJ game ladder you have a strong
image which identifies you from the many
climbing up with you. Image compromises
mostly of how you dress, accessorize and
your individual aura. All these are in your
control so its impossible to have an image by
mistake. Thorough self introspection must be
done before settling with what you may feel
is your image as this then defines you in the
long run. If I mention Culoe De Song, one may
immediately have his famous hat come to
mind, that right there is the power of image.
Identify what you’re trying to portray and
stick to it. However, some may have multiple
styles and worry that they can’t keep to one
look. That on its own becomes your image
then because you’re the deemed ‘the guy
with multiple styles’ don’t limit yourself in
creating an image. YOU define what your
image is, not the other way round.
Simtronic is a young, talented and upcoming DJ known for the ability to please diverse crowds
through his versatile music selection and mixing skills. After winning TUKS leg of McDonald’s Top
Jock Dj competition in 2012, Simtronics career began an uphill journey giving rise to countless op-
portunities

32 | DESIGN MGZ 6
DJ Christos:
A Man That Defines A Legend
By JEANETTE RAMOLULA
Referred to as the Godfather of House in South Africa, Christos
Katsaitis, commonly known as DJ Christos, is without a doubt a
man that fits the word legend. He is one of the people that have
played a very instrumental role in house music in South Africa
and has also shared his knowledge with many.
DJ Christos has worked and developed the musical careers of a
lot of South African artists. He was one of the founders of Kalawa
Jazmee label as well as his very own successful independent
record label -Katsaitis Music, that has released a number of hit
songs and six Platinum and twelve Gold selling albums in South
Africa. In this label he has released and worked with the likes
of Boom Shaka, the talented late Lebo Mathosa, Daw, Shana as
well as renowned house music DJ and producer Black Coffee.
DJ Christos has also produced afro-funk together with Vinny
Da Vinci at the DJs at Work and has won a South African Music
Award (SAMA) for Best Dance Album in 1998.
DJ Christos is also an internationally recognised artist that has
worked with big recording labels such as Real Tone Records as
well as GOGO Music amongst others. Katsaitis Music has become
a leading DJ agency that represents the likes of Vinny Da Vinci,
Monique Bingham and Lars Behrenroth amongst others. DJ
Christos has also played internationally with European DJs like
Ralf Gum, Frank Roger as well as Rocco. In addition to this, DJ
Christos has also worked with renowned artists such as Louie
Vega, Mr, V and Dennis Ferrer.
DJ Christos is one of the best DJs in South Africa and this is seen
from the establishment of the South African Music Conference
that has further enhanced him as a DJ. The South African Music
Conference (SAMC) was inaugurated in the year 2004 by Oskido,
Vinny Da Vinci, DJ Fresh, DJ Christos and Greg Maloka who all
form part of the DJs Unite collective. Apart from being the larg-
est annual house music conference on the continent, SAMC has
also featured international guests like Charles Webster, Franck
Roger, Abicah Soul, Manoo, Ralf Gum as well as Rocco.
Some say he was born to spin the vinyl and entertain masses.
This can be justified by the major role he has played in the deep
house music scene, as well as being able to represent house
music’s ability to unite people by breaking the boundaries.
DJ Christos is a man that indeed defines a legend. He is one of
the most respected house music producers in South Africa and
he has been credited for contributing towards the magnificent
development of the foundation of a now flourishing dance music
scene in South Africa. He is a man that is defined by his work and
his music speaks volumes. He is a true legend, the godfather of
house music indeed.
Legend

DESIGN MGZ 6 | 33
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