Interview with
Unraveling the Journey of the Queen of Afrotech
P roaudio Sound Press Magazine (PSP): Can you tell us about your journey as a DJ? How did you get started, and what inspired you to pursue a career in music? Matt Elle: My journey as a DJ is quite unique compared to most DJs. Music has always been a passion of mine, but I never had the courage to pursue it as a career. After graduating from the University of Pretoria with a BCom in Economics, I worked as an analyst for many years. However, in 2019, I finally decided to follow my heart and enrolled at the Pioneer DJ Academy. It was there that I graduated as a DJ in December 2019. The 2020 lockdown dramatically shifted the DJ landscape, and I found myself performing in front of cameras before getting the chance to perform for live audiences. My introduction to the South African market began when I headlined some of the biggest lockdown TV shows on SABC1, such as #Get2GetherExperience, U'R, Kunye, TRACE Africa, TRACE Urban, MTVbase #PJPartywithDJZinhle, and Channel O #LockdownHouseParty. This led to me being dubbed "The Queen of Afrotech."
In 2021, as the world slowly emerged from the pandemic, I took an advanced course to further enhance my skills. Since then, I have played in Mozambique and even participated in the Tap Into MetroFM Cruise at the Portuguese Islands. Moreover, my mixes have been broadcast not only across South Africa but also on international platforms like Ibiza Live Radio, Colombia, South Korea, Turkey, and many others. PSP: As a resident DJ in Johannesburg, how would you describe the local music scene? What makes it unique compared to other cities? Matt Elle: Johannesburg has its vibrant city life and house culture, which makes it an exciting place to be a DJ. However, my love for house music, including deep house, tribal, afrohouse, and afrotech, was first kindled when I lived in Pretoria. Regardless of the city I play in across South Africa, I always carry that love with me, making my sets unique and memorable. PSP: How do you incorporate the essence of your country into your sets and performances?
sound press August 2023 |
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