'There aren’t many female producers & I wanted to jump on that ship' — five minutes with DJ Ggoldie

In November 2023, Ggoldie went viral on social media when teasing towards the release of her first single Asambe. since then the DJ and producer has become one of Mzansi's hottest stars on everyone's radar. 

Ggoldie, real nameTshegofatso Mashabela, is a 20-year-old from Thembisa who kickstarted her career in 2021. 

The rising star did a Q&A session with TshisaLIVE on the strides she's been making in the music industry and on her future plans. 

When did you start making music?

I have always loved music. But I never saw myself as a DJ. I have always been a social media influencer and I was tired of just doing campaigns and marketing brands only. I wanted to do something different, looking for a new challenge. A friend suggested that I take up DJing as a hobby.

I was initially playing for fun — almost like how people do with sports. The fun then turned into a passion. I went to Mapentane Music Academy in Pretoria and I was there for a few months before I got confident enough to play in front of a crowd. Now, not only do I DJ but I co-produce my own music. There aren’t many female producers and I wanted to jump on that ship.

How did you get the name 'Ggoldie'?

Growing up, I used to have brown, almost sun-kissed hair, and my friend at school used to call me Goldilocks from the children's book. That became my nickname and later when I grew up, I cut it short to Goldy and the spelling was just to add some spice to it.

How do you determine what you play during your set?

 I play Amapiano but the type of music is determined by my audience. Like a true DJ, I plan sets but when I arrive it could change, based on the audience. I look at the age group and the environment. I mix my sound and choose not to categorise my style. 

Considering your background, what made you choose music over farming?

I am studying my final year in business, logistics, and supply chain management in Pretoria where I am based. I initially applied at a farming school but changed my mind as the school was far away and it would restrict my music and bookings.

I loved farming because my dad is from Limpopo and he loved it, so I learnt a lot from him. He always wanted to be a farmer and I thought I could live his dream. I believe the course I'm doing can still be beneficial to my career as an artist and DJ.