'There's still more to achieve with Gqom': five minutes with DJ Sandiso

DJ Sandiso has steadily carved out his place in the music industry since making his debut in 2009. The DJ and producer from Durban is known for his dynamic contributions to the local music scene.

He has collaborated with notable figures like DJ Tira, Okmalumkoolkat, Monea, Stilo Magolide, Que DJ, and Younga Chief. These partnerships have not only elevated his profile but have also allowed him to experiment with different sounds and further refine his craft.

TshisaLIVE spoke to the rising star about his music and future ventures. 

Your new single Gomora is a lead-up to your upcoming EP Nande 3.0. Can you take us through your journey as a Gqom producer and how you’ve evolved as an artist over the years?

When I released Isam-Qeh with Okmalumkoolkat, it was a huge influence on my music and a way to keep the Gqom culture alive. This song really helped me grow my producing skills and knowledge, especially seeing how well it was received. Collaborating with various artists over the years has been pivotal in my evolution as an artist. Nande 3.0 will showcase my growth and skills.

What inspires your music, particularly the themes and sounds found in Gomora? Are there specific experiences or influences that shape your creative process?

Gomora encapsulates the people, energy and culture of the township Gomora. It reflects their versatility and love for the Gqom genre. I chose LeeMcKrazy for this song because of his creative verses and high energy, which were a perfect fit. I draw inspiration from Gqom producers like DJ Tira, Que DJ, and Dlala Thukzin.

Gqom has a unique sound and culture. What keeps you consistently drawn to this genre, and how do you feel it has influenced the South African music scene?

Gqom has grown immensely over the years. Collaborations with artists from different genres have ushered in a new generation of Gqom music. The evolution of the genre assures me that there's still more to achieve with Gqom, and I hope it reaches the same popularity as amapiano.

You’ve collaborated with various artists for Nande 3.0, including The Elevatorz and NaakmusiQ. How do these collaborations shape your music, and what do you look for in an artistic partnership?

Collaborations are a way to explore how far your sound can go, attract new listeners, and potentially elevate the genre. I blend elements of Afrotech with Gqom to create a fresh, unique sound. In artistic partnerships, I seek energy, culture, creativity, and a strong passion for the genre — those elements are my formula for making great music.

As you prepare for the release of Nande 3.0, how do you envision your role within the music industry?

My vision is to be one of the greatest pioneers of the Gqom genre and to be remembered as someone who kept the culture alive. Nande 3.0 is a project that showcases my growth, and it will demonstrate that Gqom is still very much alive. I want my listeners to fall in love with Gqom again through my new EP. It’s going to be a fantastic festive season with Gqom, especially Nande 3.0, so get ready to dance.