Uptake of female DJs low – Zee The DJ

FAST rising local DJ popularly known as Zee The DJ says the local industry is male dominated and this results to the low uptake of female DJs in the country.

Zihle Shongwe is a feminist who wants to revolutionise the face of female DJs within the industry like the creative’s who have.

Having been born in South Africa and raised in Eswatini, she started her career in October 2021, scoring her first gig in October in Pretoria.

She went on to also bag another line-up feature at House 22, a Deep House lovers club where she was booked several times until she became a resident DJ.

“I’ve always looked up to DJ Zinhle from an early age, she always inspired me and she has been my role model my entire life. However, when I had just started my career I admired DBN Gogo and Uncle Waffles, who started their careers during COVID-19 and actually managed to be successful. I am also inspired by local DJ ItsallBlaq.

Growing up I have always loved Deep House music, which was introduced to me by my brother back when I was 13 years old.

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“Ever since there, I have always looked up to DJ Zinhle as we share the same name, she’s always been a role model to me,” said the DJ.

When probed if local DJs are able to get support locally, she said that nothing much is done to cater for them. “I personally don’t think local DJs are catered for in Eswatini.

In fact the music industry in the country is not catered for in Eswatini. The arts department is not doing enough to support the industry,” said the DJ.

“As the industry is male dominated, the uptake of women and girls is very low. There needs to be a move from tokenistic hiring of women behind the decks.

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“I want to use the decks as a tool of communicating with people. I love seeing more women in the entertainment industry, although it is not an easy industry,” added Zee The DJ.