Dropping singles in lockdown, this DJ says music brings her hope

Despite the lockdown, Lindelani DJ Pearl Maphumulo could not wait any longer to release her first single.

Known as DJ Amarula, Maphumulo released her single ‘Ingaphakathi’, an Afro house jam, online.

“The song is about me and the passion I have for music. I cannot survive without music. Music always brings me hope.”

The resident DJ at Action Bar in Shakaskraal said she hoped to encourage people, especially the youth, to go after their dreams regardless of the circumstances and the Covid-19 crisis.

“Due to the lockdown I was nervous but excited at the same time and fortunately the response I have been getting on social media is positive.”

The 24-year-old who has a knack for making good music admits that her mother disapproved of her chosen profession.

“My mother is a teacher and she wanted me to take a white collar job. I took that as a challenge to work hard and prove to her that I know what I want and I can succeed.”

She credits her friends, Nkosi Khanyile, Xolani Duma and Brain Nzuza, for taking the initiative to teach her how to mix good music and get people dancing.

“They really did a good job because my first gig was on television at 1KZN TV. That gig opened doors for me and even changed my mother’s mind about my career. She is now the most supportive mother I know,” said Pearl, who comes from Lindelani township, outside KwaDukuza.

After she was seen playing on TV, she secured gigs at radio stations including Ukhozi FM, Igagasi FM and won the 2016 Ballito Pro Battle of the DJ competitions. The 2013 Stanger South Secondary School matriculant said she enjoyed playing house music, gqom and kwaito.

“I am able to do my best work on stage as I get energy from my fans,” she said. She hopes to follow her single with an album.

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