SONOS CLUB : TSOTSI TECH
Tanaka ( Tsotsi Tech) by day the art curator making space for underrepresented artists on his own terms. yet by Night he is Tsotsi Tech a Dj with Zulu heritage fuelled by a mission to display South African Funk & Black Electronica to pump the spirit and soothe the soul.
INTERVIEW
As a DJ from a BIPOC background, what challenges have you faced in the industry, and how have you overcome them?
TSOTSI TECH: As a BIPOC artist, I’ve encountered challenges like underrepresentation, being underestimated, or feeling the need to work twice as hard to be recognized in certain spaces. There’s also a lack of platforms amplifying diverse voices, which can feel isolating. I’ve overcome this by building my own networks, staying authentic to my sound, and finding inspiration in other trailblazers who’ve navigated similar challenges. It’s a continuous process of carving out space while staying true to my roots
How important is representation and visibility for you in the electronic music scene?
TSOTSI TECH: Representation is everything. Seeing someone who reflects your identity on a stage or platform can inspire the next generation of creatives. It reminds people from underrepresented communities that their voices matter, and their contributions are valuable. Visibility helps to broaden the narrative of what electronic music is and who it’s for.
Have there been moments where your identity helped you stand out or connect with your audience in unexpected ways?
TSOTSI TECH: Absolutely. I’ve had moments where I’ve included tracks influenced by Shona/Zulu rhythms or even subtle nods to afropunk, and people have come up to me afterward to share how much it resonated with them. It’s a reminder that incorporating personal identity into music can build bridges with listeners who share that history—or who are just curious to learn something new.
What emerging trends in electronic or experimental music excite you right now?
TSOTSI TECH: The global rise of amapiano is really exciting—its blend of deep rhythms and melodic elements feels fresh and connected to the roots of dance music. I’m also inspired by how electronic artists are pushing boundaries with live instrumentation, and the integration of AI and generative music is opening up some wild possibilities for the future of production.
How do you envision your music evolving in the next few years? Are there new sounds or ideas you want to explore?
TSOTSI TECH: I’d love to dive deeper into the intersection of traditional African music and electronic production. Exploring collaborations with instrumentalists and vocalists from different cultural traditions is also a goal. Additionally, experimenting with ambient visual textures and soundscapes could add a new dimension to my sets and productions.
If you could curate a dream lineup for an event, which artists would you include and why?
TSOTSI TECH: Fela Kuti would be there for sure. unmatched energy and an ability to combine political messages with rallying dance music.
Tracy Chapman for her raw acoustic vocal performances.
DJ Mehdi for his innovative takes on French electro, King Tubby for his foundational dub influence, and DJ Rashad for bringing footwork into the spotlight with such authenticity and flair. Together, this lineup reflects the diversity of sounds and movements that inspire me.
What advice would you give to up-and-coming DJs and producers from underrepresented communities?
TSOTSI TECH: I’d your uniqueness is your strength, because this homogeneous world we live in needs that authenticity. Sincerely connect with people and connect others with your connections constantly. stay consistent and keep learning—you’ll always find people who resonate with what you’re creating. Most importantly, remember that cultural representation matters in every place where people are together.
How do you stay motivated and keep your creativity flowing, especially during challenging times?
TSOTSI TECH: I remind myself why I started—to share stories and bring people together through music & Art . Digging into new genres, revisiting old favourites , or simply taking time to rest and recharge keeps me inspired. I also find motivation in the community around me—seeing other friends & artists push boundaries keeps me energized to do the same.
What’s one message you hope people take away when they listen to your sets or mixes?
TSOTSI TECH: I want people to feel a sense of freedom—freedom to dance, to feel, and to connect. My sets are about telling stories that bridge the past, present, and future, and reminding people that music is a universal language that can unite us all.
SONOS CLUB is an initiative from Sounds of Craft Records, designed to highlight the eclectic electronic music scene through the perspectives of the BIPOC diaspora and marginalized communities, while being open to all.
