WE MET UP WITH ANOTHER HOPEFUL YOUNG PERSON………(ZARDJ). WE SPOKE ABOUT MUSIC, LIFE AND EVERYTHING ELSE…
First thing first, who is ZaRdj
I was born and bred in the Hoopstad, 09th June 1980. My family and I relocated to Butlfontein, and in 1991 we moved to Wesselsbron. I did my grade 3 (Standard 1) at Katoloso Primary School until grade 7. I then went to Monyakeng High School from grade 8 until grade 10.
Furthermore, I went back to Hoopstad to finish my high school on a farm based school called Kgotso Agricultural Secondary School in 2000. In 2001 I started my studies at Glen Agricultural College for a three-year National Diploma Qualification.
On 1st September 2004 I got my first paying job at Free State Department of Agriculture. I was a Trainee Farm Manager and in 2005 I left the Department to join Senwes LTD, the biggest company in the Grain Industry until I was promoted to be a silo manager in 2014 until to date.
I’m a father of two beautiful boys, Tshegofatso(7 years) and Reatlegile(almost 2 years) whom I regard as the cornerstones of my life and I draw my strength from them.
I’m currently doing my Btech Degree with Central University of Technology on part-time basis.
ZaRdj_SA is an introvert, shy individual and passionate about life. I have a strong desire to achieve more in life. I normally surround myself with people who take life serious and have the urge to succeed in life.
Tell about how you decided…I want to be a DJ
It started years back while I was at Glen College. I was a chairperson of the student community and the student PA system was under my guard. So in 2013 I started taking the Dj thing seriously whereby I met lot of guys who helped me to nurture the potential within me.
In 2015 I started buying my own sound system and I’m using it for rentals as well. I’m currently a guest Dj at Taole INN (Ha Mchangane) here in Wesselsbron where I play every Saturday night.
Biggest inspiration
I have a lot of respect for Black Coffee and Dj Kent for their personality as well as their character; they are always humble and down to earth. They both made it big locally and internationally in the music industry.
I aslo take my hat off for Dj Nation from Taung North West for his humble beginnings and his contributions to youth development.
Memorable night/gig for you as a Dj?
That’s way back in 2013 October.I was invited to play at Coligny North West, the venue was packed to capacity and the crowd also responded positively to my set.
Last year June I was also invited in Pampierstad Northern Cape,that was massive and even today people that side still respect me.
Can you share any of your secrets/ tricks with South Africa?
Look, there are a lot of Dj’s lately and our style of music differs a lot. I’m a deep house fanatic and I don’t compromise my style, it’s either you go deep or you go home for me.
All I could say is that humble yourself before your supporters and always be willing to listen to people’s advices. Remember no man is an Island on his own. Keep yourself rooted in the music industry and know what’s happening currently in the music.
What is one mistake you see a lot of Dj’s making?
I personally say to all aspiring Dj’s out there, don’t try to be the next Black Coffee or anyone. Everyone is unique in their own way and don’t try to be someone you are not.
Being a Dj you need to have the right track selection, timing and your mixing should compliment your style of music. You need to have a good ear for good music and let your listeners feel as if they on another planet.
Where do you think the scene is headed, years from now
Five years from now I want to see myself sharing a stage with some of the biggest names in the industry. Secondly I want to get myself a license, have an established brand that is well known and I want to groom the up and coming dj’s.
What is something that bugs you about the Dj Scene?
The fact that people think all Dj’s are cheaters and heartbreakers, everyone has a choice in life. Some of us are in the industry for business, some for the love of music and some for pleasure.
One other thing that bugs me as a dj, is that you get to travel long distances without your family and sometimes you would in three different towns in the same night. That’s risky and tiring at the same time.
One track that never gets old for you no matter how many times you hear it
That would be First to say goodbye by Gladys Knight (Manoo style remix), this track is still doing wonders to me and those other deep house fanatics.
What is the one track that got popular that you can’t stand?
Black Coffee ft Nakatoure – music is the answer
Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this write-up and the rest of the
site is very good.
Much appreciated John, thanks for the comment It really was a sweet interview.