DJ Khomza – born to be a DJ
Dj Khomza has taught a number of popular DJs in Tembisa, including DJ Shimza and DJ Hlathi.
The Tembisan met with one of the greatest teachers in DJ circles recently.
DJ Khomza has taught a number of popular DJ’s in Tembisa, inlcuding DJ Shimza and DJ Hlathi.
The Tembisan had a quick chat just before he dashed off to one of his gigs for the night.
Tembisan: Who is DJ Khomza?
Khomza: My real name Bongani Lesley Nhleko. Komza comes from Khombela, a name given to me by my grandfather. When I started to be a DJ, I had to cut it short to Khomza. Who is Khomza? Khomza is me – a DJ, just a person who is open to helping anyone. I grew up knowing what I want. My mom loved music. She was loud and you would swear she was drinking but she was not. Neighbours would constantly complain about her. That’s where I learnt music. That is where it all comes from.
Tembisan: Where were you born?
Khomza: I was born in the Tembisa Hospital and I grew up in Tembisa, at the Umthambeka Section. I later moved to Leboeng Section.
Tembisan: Where do you live now?
Khomza: I moved to Midrand and I have a property there.
Tembisan: Why did you chose to be a DJ?
Khomza: I love what I’m doing. I don’t see myself working for anybody. I never wanted to be a doctor or a policeman. There’s a saying which says, “Do what you love to do best and you won’t work for the rest of your life”. Being a DJ is what I do best.
Tembisan: What inspires DJ Khomza?
Khomza: In life, I have learnt not to stick with an age group. The inspiration I get comes from elderly people, when they talk I listen.
Tembisan: What keeps you in Tembisa? What’s your connection with the township?
Khomza: I have done so many things in Tembisa. I have major events that I organise in Tembisa. I have taught DJs like Shimza and others. In fact, I have a new event coming where every DJ who I have taught will be playing. It will be an annual event and there I will just sit and watch my products. There are so many people who come from these hands and I think it is only fair to honour myself if they can’t.
Tembisan: When did you start to DJ professionally?
Khomza: It was in 2001. It started with Stokvels, Imbizo and street bashes. In 2004 I met DJ Monde. I spoke to him and he gave me a chance to play at Y-FM in a show called Vinyl Mack Down. This was a competition hosted by a Radio presenter Bad Boy T. That was a break-through for DJ Khomza.
Tembisan: How did you get to where you are today in your career?
Khomza: Respecting my job. Self love and respecting my audience. The audience is where my money is, it is not in my hands. The minute you deliver is the minute the audience will love you. I never have a beer in my hand when I work. But these days some DJs are willing to work for a six pack of beer.
Tembisan: Are you at a point where you would say you have reached the peak of your success?
Khomza: No. I’m at a point where I can just maintain my lifestyle and I’m happy where I am.
Tembisan What is your advice to up-and-coming DJs?
Khomza: Be serious in what they are doing. They must not listen to anyone who is negative, telling them what to do. Excel in what you are doing and surely the door will open for you.
