In the heart of Pretoria’s vibrant music scene, the talented DJ Rabza is making waves with his infectious beats and unwavering passion for music.
He has teamed up with Thabang Sefala, the social media sensation known as Skomota.
Born in Soshanguve, Jacob Rapule Phiri, an event organiser and an actor, has been featured on popular soapies such as Scandal, Muvhango and Generations The Legacy.
With a unique sound that blends house, amapiano and long bass drums, DJ Rabza is fast becoming the go-to name for music lovers seeking a fresh and authentic sound.
Phiri’s love affair with music began in his childhood, and watching Bojomujo’s music videos on TV sparked a fire within him, and he started his musical journey in 2001.
“Growing up in Soshanguve I created a lot of memories; in 2001 I did a song with Tshepo Tina, or DJ Miles Montana, and we did a song titled Love of my Life.
“The song did not go as far as I thought, but that did not discourage me. I saw myself growing from strength to strength in the music industry,” he said.
He said he grew up listening to South African music, and his band mate Dr Malinga encouraged him to keep pushing.
“In school we would participate during school functions like year-end and bashes. We would perform and DJ, but my parents did not like it. However, they slowly got to it when they saw how determined I was to make it work. They got to know that even though I am a police officer, I take music as my first love,” he said.
Speaking to Pretoria News about his new single titled Ten tao ya Mavuso, Phiri said he is happy that the song is doing well on social media platforms and radio stations.
“I am on a radio tour promoting this song with Skomota. I believe you have to follow trends if you want to sustain your career, follow what people love so you can stay relevant. What keeps me up to date is day to day lifestyle; you get to know a lot about people’s lives and get their tastes; so it gives me an idea on what my next project will be,” he said.
He said his memorable moment was when he hosted a successful gig on July 27, 2024, where they were celebrating Tsekeleke’s birthday.
“Last week Friday, I also had another successful gig; I am also organising another at the end of August; so people need to follow us on our social media platforms to get up to date,” he said.
He added that the most challenging part in the music industry he has faced is “gate-keeping” and airplay.
“Getting booked is also a problem, hence I opted to organise gigs myself and invite my fellow upcoming artists to come and perform.”
He has also worked with notable artists such as DJ Call Me and Trademark as well as The Village Boys.
Phiri said his advice to those who also want to be in the industry is to be strong.
“This industry needs a strong heart a lot is happening; from a distance it’s creamy, but inside it’s fire. If you want to make it in this industry you must be strong. Do not be an artist with the aim of making it a source of income; treat it as a hobby,” he said.
Pretoria News