From running away from drugs to successful DJ
Today, Sandile's future is promising and he is continuing to sharpen his skills
MANY people can draw inspiration from Sandile Thaduxolo Nkosiyemusa (DJ Sandile) whose story of overcoming hardship is now earning him a living.
When the 20-year-old Kemptonian set his sights on the path to his dreamland, the odds were highly stacked against him and the imminence of a bleak future seemed to be the sole outcome, but he never lost his hunger for success, even after he dropped out of Grade 10.
Today, Sandile looks back at all his misfortune with a glint of a smile because he has begun making a name for himself on the deejaying decks.
Sandile discovered his love for house music at a very young age. “I was taught to deejay by my brother and his friend at the age of 10. I learnt all the basics and all the software such as automix and tractor. These programmes helped me to develop my skills on the decks,” he said.
He said his dreams of becoming a DJ almost shattered when he failed Grade 10. “I failed English by a mere one per cent and I had to repeat the grade. I decided to change schools but at the new high school I was sent to, I had to isolate myself from the rest because many learners in the school were using drugs.”
Sandile said the move to the new school left him unhappy. He started having bouts of depression that made a big impact on his life. “One morning on my way to school, I collapsed and was admitted to hospital. My condition was so severe I was taken to the intensive care unit.”
Following the incident, Sandile said he decided to leave school, which was a decision not supported by his parents. He said he began his independence by moving out of his parents’ house to fend for himself.
“I am currently a resident DJ at Esibayeni Lounge in Kempton Park. I have also joined Soul Candi Academy to advance my musical production skills,” he adds.
Among other musical icons, Sandile has shared a stage with DJ like Kent, DJ Shimza. DJ Warras, Vinny Da Vinci, Euphonik, Kwesta, Cassper Nyovest, Something Soweto, Major League and Da Capo.
Sandile has won the Soul Candi Colour in Ekurhuleni, Cuff Yo’ Chick 04 and Rock Da Shades DJ.
“I have also performed in Swaziland, Lesotho and Namibia and have travelled to Hong Kong.”
He said most of his time is spent in the studio to ensure his skills are sharp because he believes the future has good things in store for him.
He wants Kempton Park residents to look out for his debut album When life turns against me through which he will tell more of his life story.
