DJ Soso Reflects on Two Decades of Music as He Prepares for New Releases

Johannesburg-born DJ Soso, a prominent figure in South Africa’s music scene, recently shared insights into his remarkable journey that spans over 20 years. Known not only as a DJ but also as a music producer and label owner, he reflects on his evolving career and exciting new projects with warmth and optimism.

“I’m in good spirits,” he says, highlighting his passion for music and culture that has taken him beyond borders. “Put me in Kenya, Ghana, Durban, anywhere—I’m a global figure.” Since 2004, DJ Soso has been dedicated to spinning and producing music, currently running Ubizo Café, a record label at the forefront of blending Afro-house with Amapiano and other contemporary genres.

His roots trace back to Wits University, where at just 18, he took over as president of the Wits DJ Society from Sphectacula of Kings of the Weekend. Those formative years were filled with organizing residence parties, fresher’s bashes, and connecting with artists who have since become industry leaders. This early foundation helped shape his cultural influence and leadership within the music community.

A significant chapter in his career is his longstanding relationship with house music icon Sir LSG. “He was sitting in front of the DJ box at Wits while I was playing. We were both in the same res, and from there, we built something special,” Soso recalls. This mentorship helped launch Sir LSG’s career, who today hosts some of Johannesburg’s biggest deep house events.

Despite the successes, DJ Soso acknowledges the challenges of the music industry, particularly gatekeeping fueled by budget constraints. “As an independent label owner, you don’t always have access to the right rooms,” he explains. Yet, with a dedicated team who believe in his vision, he continues to push forward even when resources are limited.

Musically, DJ Soso is innovating by fusing Afro-house, Amapiano, and the emerging 3step sound, while also embracing Afro Tech and Afro Soul. “We sign artists in these spaces,” he shares, emphasizing the diverse and fresh direction of Ubizo Café.

His latest release, Umile, a spiritual collaboration with Cape Town vocalist Gugega, has already made significant waves. The track appeared on two major Spotify editorial playlists, reaching #10 on a gospel playlist and #28 on another, accumulating 700 streams on its first day. “It might be small to others, but it’s massive for me,” Soso says humbly.

After years of singles and EPs, DJ Soso is preparing to launch his debut full-length album. “I’ve been making music for over a decade, but now I’m at a place where I can market it right,” he states. The upcoming album will follow a deluxe EP and feature approximately 20 tracks that showcase his creative evolution.

Offering advice to emerging artists, DJ Soso stresses the importance of timing. “Sometimes your music is too ahead of its time. Hold on to it, study the room, then release it when the world is ready,” he advises.

To his fans, he delivers a confident message: “I’m coming through, guys. Intuitively, I feel it—my time is now. DJ Soso is coming. Ubizo Café is coming. Thank you.”

Beginning his career under the guidance of legends like DJ Sphectacula and DJ Milkshake, DJ Soso led the Wits DJ Society from 2006 to 2008, took on roles at VOW FM as head of mobile DJs, presenter, and producer, and co-hosted The Sound Evolution on Touch HD in 2017. He has performed across South Africa, Botswana, and Swaziland, sharing stages with icons such as Atjazz, Cleo, Black Coffee, and DJ Fresh. With his rich history and fresh vision, DJ Soso continues to be a powerful force in the South African music scene.