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DJ Prie Nkosazana has been in the Afrobeats game for more than a decade, establishing herself as one of the biggest disk jockeys in a male-dominated industry. She kicked off her career in 2013 and has gone from being a local player to performing for international audiences.
Born Princess Jacobs, the 19-year-old lass from Durban, who is also a producer, has gone on to be an internationally recognized multi-genre dance music DJ/producer and shared stage with DJ Khaled, Adele, Eminem among others.
DJ Prie has toured Africa, Europe, America as well as Asia, and a resident DJ on Soweto TV every Monday and Ukhozi FM every Friday. In this interview, she talks about her come-up and future plans.
How has this past year been for you?
So, 2021 has been a challenging year for almost everyone because of the deadly pandemic which stole away a physical, economical, emotional toll.
As a DJ/Producer, it affected me by taking away so many privileges lessening the international bookings, contracts being terminated but, however, I learned that being vulnerable is inevitable which strengthened me to convince myself that I was in charge of my life even though we are living in uncertain trying times, I’m more than grateful.
How did you first get into music, what sparked the interest?
Music is my calling, I am one of those who are strongly bound by an infectious enthusiasm and passion so automatically with that drive, hunger. And I bumped into a couple of DJs who were willing to assist me, and that honestly sparked a lot of interest.
I actually believe God gave me the talent, so I had to grab and utilize it wisely by spreading love through music.
Moreover, back then when I started the industry was male-dominated, and since I have always strongly believed in myself. I wanted to inspire the coming generation to be fearless to pursue their dreams.
How would you describe your journey as DJ?
The journey has been graceful, even though there are some constraints that I “the girl child” face in a male-dominated industry. I am not a gender expert, but the journey has portrayed that trying to put your feet in the industry as a “Female DJ“, one needs to be highly confident, optimistic, resilient rock hearted with thick skin.
In addition to this, upright morals, taking my craft seriously, and knowing my worth have helped me to be well respected avoiding numeral unprofessionalism attributes like underpayment & bad publicity.
You’ve worked with some amazing people in the past, tell us about the experiences?
Indeed, I have rubbed shoulders with the legendary rapper Eminem when I was booked to perform in the U.S.A. The line-up was crazy and I got to share a stage with British singer, Adele, and DJ Khaled. As a young girl from Durban in South Africa, I was totally mind blown by the experience.
What has been a standout moment for you?
My standout moment was being booked as the first African female Dj in Switzerland at the Geneva Festival. The crowd was epic & multinational. I could not believe that I had reached a bigger scale.
Who are your inspirations?
I get moved by God-fearing, strong, humble people that enjoy their craft regardless of hardships. Someone who’s patient, self-critical, flexible, having a desire to grow and try new things with a persistent attitude.
What are you currently working on?
I have been striving to find the life lessons from the disruption 2020 and 2021 has brought because I want to believe that there is at least one upside hence I’m trying to tap into collaborating with different people, sounds from different parts of Africa widening the fanbase. My main aim is to release music as much as I can by fusing cultures and creating a diverse unique sound.