This and that with Q Scotch
Known as Q Scotch by house music lovers, Karabo Mapheto from Seshego Zone 1 has been a DJ for a long time and he is still going strong
POLOKWANE – He grew up listening to house music and was inspired to become a DJ by Ashley DJ Shimza Raphala. While others were doing their thing on the dance floor, Q Scotch spent his time with the DJ’s behind the decks.
He had his DJ debut in 2009 and has never looked back. He is the resident DJ and ambassador of Mosate Entertainment, and currently the resident DJ at Polokwane Chisa Nyama at Waterland.
Express caught up with him to find out a little bit more about his life.
What is your background and how did you get into the DJ scene?
I was born in Seshego township in Polokwane. I have had a love for music since my teens and started to DJ at family gatherings and friends’ parties. Back then I did not expect to become one of Limpopo’s greatest DJ’s.
What was your starting equipment?
My first piece of equipment was a computer, that was before I knew how to use CD’s.
Other than being a DJ, do you have another career or what do you do in your spare time?
I am part of the marketing team at Mosate Entertainment.
Who is your inspiration?
DJ Shimza is my biggest inspiration and strongest motivator to become the best DJ.
How would you describe your music/sound to those who are not familiar with it?
To be precise, I’m not a producer but a house music mix DJ.
Describe your music library?
I am more into heavy K, DJ Shimza, Drummetic Boys, and Cueber, so yeah, I’m a drum fan. I don’t categorise, I listen to every type of music. but I prefer soul, RnB, hip hop, and house.
Do you ever get nervous before you go on?
Sometimes, yes.
What is the greatest gig you’ve played at?
The first Friday 2015 and Mbombela Beach Festival.
What kind of music do you play?
I play deep, soulful and Afro house music.
When did you know this is something you want to do professionally?
2012 was actually the year I knew I wanted to do this professionally, that’s when I left my day job to focus on my DJ career.
Being a DJ must mean you have your hands full with all the women vying for your attention, how do you manage this?
I won’t lie and say I don’t entertain them, but I know my boundaries. I only allow taking pictures with them.
What words of encouragement do you have for aspiring DJ’s and producers out there?
To make it out there you have to be the slave of your brand.
What makes a good DJ?
Being humble, friendly with everyone, knowing your music track selection, and knowing what the audience likes.
What would you say makes you a good DJ?
My skills with the mixer and my selection of course. There are many good DJ’s out there, but I’m unique because my music makes a huge difference.
What are the three things you can’t live without?
Cell phone, internet and television.
What do you do in your spare time?
Surf the internet and socialise.
What do you love the most about being a DJ?
Travelling, meeting new people and experiencing different cultures. In a way it’s a learning curve for me.
