Hard work and dedication truly are the tools required to bring all of your dreams to life, these including passion for the craft. One individual that has shown that over the past years through their sweat, blood and tears is Bloemfontein’s very own, DJ Tshegu. Tshegofatso Petlhu better known as DJ Tshegu first had her big break in 2023 through her debut single “Mzokwana” which later received a remix with the “Presidente Wa Straata” himself, Focalistic. This lead to a major trend across socials for months which later allowed the fellow talented, DJ Tshegu to be recognised by not only the industry but potential fans. The hit single also brought a vast amount of opportunities for her and her team.
We couldn’t help but to wonder what her story and journey entails of. So, we decided to sit down with DJ Tshegu and ask her a few questions about herself. Through this interview we got to learn a lot as well as also understand why she put in the amount of work and resilience towards her career. She had a lot to share with us. Embark on this journey of knowledge and inspiration through the eyes of DJ Tshegu in the interview below.
Disclaimer: Interview has been configured/edited for reading purposes.
With every DJ and Producer, there is always an origin story to their craft and passion for music. What’s your origin story and when did your love for the art of music begin?
I would almost say that I was born into a life of music at a very young age. It was simple to adore it because both of my parents—especially my father—were local DJs and had a firm that rented out sound equipment. I first became aware of my affinity for music when I was about four years old.
I would presume you always knew that you were destined for greatness as your track record speaks for itself. You have shared various stages with a variety of major DJs and producers across the country, how did that impact your approach towards your African tour in 2022 and how did that go by the way?
The goal of the African Tour was to get me to travel to other countries. I firmly think that in order to build a foundation that will enable me to travel to other places, I must first make an impression in my immediate surroundings. Regretfully, we were only able to travel to a few of the neighbouring nations because of our restricted means. However, I’d like to think that with my regular bookings, I’m finally taking the tour.
How would you describe your 10 year journey in the industry and what key lessons do you hold close to your chest based on your experience and journey?
I consider music to be a way of life as it is all I know. I live by my daily teachings. Have faith in God and in yourself.
Those that may know, you studies Sound Engineering and graduated in 2020 (I stand to be corrected with the year) at the PAS Media Academy in Bloemfontein. How would you say that course has assisted with your ear for music from the production aspect to quality control and how have you put the actual qualification to use on a day to day basis?
I originally planned to use my studies in sound engineering to grow my father’s sound equipment rental company. That’s where I started my music producing adventure; within the course, it was one of my courses. However, financial constraints limited my ability to finish the short course. I would have cherished to pursue my journey’s production component farther.
Would you also say since graduating that the course has impacted how you listen to or consume music?
Everything matters when it comes to music. Even emotions, so yes I would say it has shaped my approach towards how I consume music on a daily.
2023 has since been a good year for you as you went on to making your musical debut with your hit single “Mzokwana” featuring Sims Noreng. How did the single come about and what inspired the title of the song? What does the title actually mean?
We actually made a few beats that day in the studio, it was a typical session. The musical components of “Mzokwana” in particular stuck with me since they perfectly encapsulate who I am. The song’s title speaks for itself — it alludes to something antiquated or vintage.
You then followed up the success of the single with a remix alongside Amapiano Superstar, Focalistic titled “Tiya Mfana” which has done absolutely well with growing your numbers and brand. How would you describe the creation process of this single?
I believe this was one of the most challenging yet thrilling periods of my life. Being on a song with the musically accomplished Focalistic would need me to maintain my composure and work even harder. His hard ethic and the messages in his songs have always been admirable to me. “Tiya Mfana,” which translates to “keep strong,” has always struck a chord with me. “O Sa Celebrate’a Osa Kora” highlights the level of concentration required for this field.
Who curated the dance to the track?
Oddly enough, the dance originated from my imitation of an elderly aunt during one of our family get-togethers. Since then, I have cherished it since it struck a chord with the word “Mzokwana.”
Did you anticipate the impact that the remix had on socials and at events?
I had no precise expectations, but I knew that I appreciated the music and the message. And I guess, it was well received by the fans as it essentially came from the heart.
It is not everyday where artists, producers and DJs sign to labels to make their debut especially in our time of digital resources. I say this to ask, what made you sign over to Focalistic’s stable, “18 Area Holdings” and how has that venture assisted your musical career?
18 Area Holdings was always going to be my family by implication. The managers of Focalistic and myself are twins. Being a member of this family has been really beneficial. A co-sign by Focalistic is really beneficial too as I have been able to grow musically and as a brand holistically.
Before signing, how would you describe your musical world from a management side to a content creation side and branding side?
There are various difficulties and barriers associated with growth. I’m just happy to be a member of a company that knows what the objective is.
You recently did a charity project in December around the Alexandra area, kindly tell us more about that project and what was the aim behind it?
In reality, our charity event took place in my hometown of Bloemfontein. On Christmas Day, in the community where I grew up. My second interest, I believe, is social work, so I assumed I could pursue that through my current employment if I weren’t a musician. I live by the phrase “share your kindness” every single day.
What do you 2024 plans look like thus far?
You will definitely be receiving more music on top of more music!
What advice would you give to the younger you?
At the end of the day, you are in charge of your dreams. It’s true that the people you love can always be there to support you, but in the end, it comes down to you.
List your top 10 singles that are currently dominating your playlist.
This is a tough one, at this very moment I have at least 100 on mind. However I do think there’s a lot of great music that has been dropped in the past year!
Who are your dream collaborators?
I still have a tonne of idols that I would love to collaborate with on a national and worldwide level.
What tips would you give to an aspiring DJ/music producer that’s currently in school?
If you are able to continue your education, it is crucial. You are the leader of your dreams, as I have stated.
DJ Tshegu continues to shine bright through her craft and passion and we love to see it. We are excited to see what she has to showcase to us this year. May she continue growing and hustling, we wish her nothing but the best and a year filled with life changing opportunities and beautiful relationships with people. As the year 2024 continues to propel, let us celebrate DJ Tshegu’s achievements from the previous year by showing appreciation.
Listen to “Tiya Mfana (Mzokwana) by DJ Tshegu and Focalistic Featuring Sims Noreng below:
