Experience the magic of Durban Underground this Christmas

The anticipation is building this year as the city's iconic annual Durban Underground event gears up to offer an unforgettable Christmas experience, showcasing some of the biggest acts on its impressive lineup.

Marking nearly three decades of tradition, the event has evolved from humble beginnings as a house party into a premier gathering for Durbanites and tourists alike, eagerly embracing the festive spirit.

Speaking exclusively with the Daily News, founder Mbusi Sokhela, affectionately known as DJ Sox, reveals the roots of the event, which first emerged in Durban North among a group of high school friends seeking a way to celebrate Christmas Day.

“For about three years, it was a house party, then we started hiring venues because the group and people attending grew,” Sokhela shared.

“We didn’t want to do it in the same place all the time and wanted to give people a different experience for Christmas.”

Over the years, the event has moved to various locations around eThekwini, each bringing its unique flavour to the festivities.

In recent years, it has found a new home at Virginia Airport, a venue unlike the more typical party spaces, which Sokhela described as a “special occasion.”

Previous locations have included popular spots in Durban North and Umhlanga, showcasing a dynamic evolution that steps away from the ordinary.

Sokhela reflects on the event’s impact in nurturing local talent and driving the Durban music movement, noting that many established artists have graced its stage.

“This is the party we used to attend back in the days when the Durban music movement was starting. Artists like DJ Tira, DJ Bongz, and Big Nuz have all performed here,” he asserted, highlighting the event’s instrumental role in promoting young artists in the region.

This year, the Durban Underground will feature an exciting array of performances from Oscar Mbo, Morda Bongz, Durban's Finest, Dlala Thukzin, DJ Happygirl, and many others, all hosted by the charismatic Polo B.

Sokhela encourages families to first enjoy their time together before heading out to the vibrant event at Virginia Airport.

“Since it’s on Christmas Day, a lot of people who work outside of Durban are back home. It's like a reunion,” he adds, during a time when many, including famous DJ Black Coffee, return to reconnect with old friends.

Beyond the fun, the event plays a crucial role in the tourism sector as well.

Sokhela, who is also part of the Umhlanga Tourism Board, emphasises the partnership with Durban Tourism, which sees the event as an integral attraction for holidaymakers.

“Almost all other venues, like restaurants and nightclubs, are closed on Christmas Day. This is why Durban Tourism has supported this event, due to its national pull and the entertainment it provides,” he explained.

As the festive spirit fills the air, Sokhela assures fans that his commitment to music remains strong, revealing plans to release new tracks and collaborate on upcoming projects.

“I Have been in the studio a lot over the past few months and will be dropping new music at the beginning of the year. We are also in talks with DJ Tira about releasing Durban's Finest Volume 4,” he teased, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the future.