DJ Lady Tone is DJ Chilli Willi’s protégé

TLHOLOGELO Ellen “DJ Lady Tone” Makopo from Moletlane in Zebediela is hard at work to establish her unique brand in the entertainment industry.

Tone holds a vocational certificate in computer engineering from PC Training and Business College, but prefers to spin decks.

“Being a female DJ in a male dominated industry is the best thing that happened to me and I will not give up on it. When I was growing up, I was involved in all the musical activities in school. I have a love and passion for music. I love every genre of music, but I’m a house DJ and I mostly enjoy playing Afro-deep and dance music,” says Lady Tone.

She says she was inspired by DJs from Pretoria, whom she used to watch when they visited the local taverns in Zebediela.

“I never thought I would ever be like them. I lost hope because I never thought I would find someone to show me the ropes, until I met Tebogo William “DJ Chilli Willi” Sekgwari in 2011. He taught me the basics and techniques of how to use the CDJs and how to work the mixer. I was then given the opportunity to perform at Bar 55 in Ga-Chuene and this is where my journey with music started,” she says.

She told Express she also sang gospel and had performed with the likes of Ndivhuwo Matimba, Vuyo Mokoena and Sechaba. She would like to play with legends like Stimela and Ringo.

Lady Tone encouraged young women who wish to be in the music industry to stay strong and to go for it.

“I’m a go getter and I believe everything I go for and touch turns to gold. Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. I am still growing and getting better in the industry, I’m not there yet but I am slowly but surely getting there by faith.”