Blind DJ spins the decks
The blind DJ said he is not only a DJ, he also produces music and is a qualified sound engineer as well.
Bongani Mbambo, also known as DJ Phobia “The Funk Master”, was born and raised in Bethlehem, in the Free State.
The blind DJ said he is not only a DJ, he also produces music and is a qualified sound engineer as well.
DJ Phobia started to DJ in 2005 with the help of DJ Christos and Black Coffee.
“I met Christos a long time ago in 1999. I told him I wanted to be a DJ and he told me he would see what he could do for me.
“In 2005 he invited me to the South African Music Conference, the very first one,” said DJ Phobia.
The Funk Master, who now resides in Ebony Park, was not born blind.
When he was only three months old, he was diagnosed with eye cancer and as a result, he became blind.
DJ Phobia, who practices every day to master his DJ skills, said his love of the art started when he was young.
“I used to go to festivals with my mom,” he said.
He is inspired by his love of music and the support of his family, friends and fans.
DJ Phobia admits that it is a tough industry but said it all depends on the kind of person one is.
“If you are determined and if you really want to do this thing – you can do it. Nothing and no one can stop you. You must keep going,” he said.
Commenting about his success, the Funk Master said, “I would say I am successful. The only thing I need is to release my album, which I’m busy with right now.
“I’m still here, I’m still doing my thing – still rocking.”
DJ Phobia said his advice to up-and-coming DJ’s is, “You can do anything you want. Don’t let anyone try to bring you down or stop you. Just reach out and touch your dream.”
