WHEELSPINNING has become a passion for many and a career path for some, while lack of financial resources has made it difficult for others to make a living from their art.
Instead, many turn to other forms of employment to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, the few who have stuck to it have created a vibrant underground scene that is full of creativity and energy.
The hope is that one day the industry will blossom and allow DJs to pursue their passion full-time. Until then, they will continue to spin the decks and keep the beat going.
Standard Style caught up with Bulawayo’s popular wheel spinner, DJ Sweeto born Walter Ncube.
Growing up, Ncube was known as the “Sweeto" of his school. His friend had given him the nickname because he used to be a vendor selling sweets to his classmates.
He enjoyed the social aspect of selling sweets and the opportunity to talk to his friends. Even after school, the nickname stuck, and he's still known as DJ Sweeto.
In the interview, he spoke about his life outside the showbiz industry and other matters, saying “being a DJ in Zimbabwe does not pay because there is no industry.”
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“I started deejaying when I was at high school. The school had hired a DJ for a gig who later had an emergency and I was given the wheels to spin. What happened was, I was standing right next to him imitating what he was doing when the gig started. Then he got a call, it was an emergency. He was like “can you take over this” from the little knowledge I had learnt I was like; "of course". To my surprise l managed to rock the crowd, it became my wish and today I am rocking it in the clubs and other events.”
Inspiration
“It all comes from self-inspiration. I told myself I can do it and till today I am doing it. Of course with the help of other DJs in the industry like the late Chalie Fresh, DJ Joe Da Og, DJ Prince ES’khosini , DJ Ohmz and DJ Mzoe.
Deejaying Journey and Gongs
“I have never had an official job in my life. I have just been a DJ and hustling until Covid-19 taught me a lesson! I was taught not to survive on one hustle. That's when I ventured into photography. So far I have only managed to win a DJ battle which was held at Hustlers NightClub back in the days when l was an upcoming DJ.”
Personal style as a DJ and equipment
“I am a versatile DJ, give me any crowd to rock l deliver, l use any type of gear be it a laptop, Controller among other things. Above all, what's important is to deliver and make people happy.
“When it comes to sets I am forever prepared to play anything according to the crowd. Currently my favourite place to play is at Greenspan also known as Maboneng. The vibe is good! It’s correct and the crowd drives you crazy. The place has so much energy, it’s actually the place to be right now in Bulawayo and it's run by a fellow Dj Jaiza.”
Deejaying in Zimbabwe
“It doesn't pay honestly; it's like a game of chance. When you compare to other countries like South Africa where one can survive on deejaying, you will see that there is still a long way to go . In Zimbabwe deejaying can be only a side job. You can’t break even and you can’t really rely on it.”
Criticism and Rejection
“This is part of the journey; we all learn from it. Again it helps you build you in your career. We learn from our mistakes and above all we are not perfect. I urge the upcoming DJs to take things one step at a time. Your time to shine will come.”
