Meet Me Underground: Veteran & Kartels (Pietermaritzburg)

This month on Meet Me Underground we are joined by two young men who are true lovers of music and art. Emerging on the scene as folk who intend to create a long lasting brand in the music and creative space, “Veteran & Kartels” are a name to keep an eye out for. Coming out of the red brick city Pietermaritzburg, this is what we can classify as locally grown talent. Having recently met with them upon an interview at a local radio station Umgungundlovu FM. It was a great to encounter folk who prioritize so much into their craft and have a very broad future vision for their brand. Everybody meet Veteran & Kartels.

MEET ME UNDERGROUND [Questions]: Veteran & Kartels

1. Greetings and Welcome back to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you once again please introduce yourself to those who don’t know you & tell us a little bit who you are?

V&K: Thank you My brother my Name is Mongezi Tshabalala Aka “MoGeez” the Prince of Soulful Music alongside my partner Sipho “Bhut Msay” Msawoni and together we are from Veteran and Kartels a brand that brings you quality music and quality clothing.

2. The term “Underground” can be given many definitions, what can you say is your own personal definition of the term?

V&K: Undiscovered music and fresh talent or can be referred to as songs that can put you in a new different feeling with sick beat elements.

3. Personally as Mogeez, do you feel you underground or you represent something else?

V&K: I feel underground due to obvious reasons that I’m not famous yet however I am an underground artist and I’m proud of that because as an underground artist ur stems are very strong once u blow up coz down here the struggle is real but the teachings are exceptional.

4. Where does your musical journey start? Did you love and have passion for music from childhood or was music something you picked up as you grew up?

V&K: My brother for me it’s always been a thing I mean back home growing up with my siblings we would make mixes on “AutoMix” and Virtual Dj and our Gran would ask what we doing and we say we producing and I guess looking up to popular Dj’s at the time came along the love and Passion for Deep House Music for me.

5. What music are you currently listening to, your top 10 releases for the year 2022?

V&K:

• Chronical Deep – Kumo EP
• TimAdeep – Congo Square EP
• Stay True  Sounds – Volume 4
• Deepconsoul – Rising Album.
• BlaQRhythm – Isintu EP
• Sonido – Del Sol Album 
• BeatsByHand – Tough Times EP
• Sonido – Into the Sun EP 

6. Now let’s talk about “Veteran & Kartels”, for someone with no clue please give us a slight walk through of what is it and when it started?

V&K: VETERAN and KARTELS is more of a lifestyle company. We want to contribute a lot on the music scene with our compilations and also shine on the light to the upcoming Dj’s by featuring them as guests.  VETERAN….is someone with long experience in something and with that being said, I would say we are VETERANs on this Party Lifestyle and Good music…. KARTELS are those people who follow current trends in groups with the hope of being legendary individuals one day (VETERANs).

7. What are some are the things you have learned from being in music that you apply to your everyday life?

V&K: Well what I learnt from music that I can say I apply in my everyday life is the ability to know when the right time is to move onto my next phase so it’s timing and precision in a nut shell.

8. Being a DJ/Spinner is a true art, what are some of the key elements or things that you find to play a part more in your sets?

V&K: Indeed it is a true art bhut’ wam and some do more than others some overdo more than they should but for me it’s the magic of gelling two songs into one beat and being able to match the beats to make a magical mix from two totally different songs.

9. Second half of the year already under way what are some of the things we can expect from VK?

V&K: Well u know it’s always a dream to have all that we want in life but as V&K I wish people expect more expensive music,  merchandise and definitely an EP.

10. If you were stranded on an Island and you only had the ability to listen to only 3 albums for a week what would those 3 be?

V&K:

• Atjazz and Julian Gomez – Big Bad Crazy Album
• House Afrika 8 – Brewed Soul Disc 
• Senior Oat – Thief in the Night.

11. You have recently spoken about crossing over into music production? What can you tell the people to expect?

V&K: As an Artist I’m still finding myself but I know for a fact that I’m a Deep Soulful lover and Afro Deep/Tech fan so this is what I will present to my fans and who knows maybe a bit of AmaPiano but just a bit.

12. How do you think underground music has fared in our country, with a scene which is mostly populated with commercial music, what is your take on it as a whole?

V&K: Underground Music is the stem of most of the commercial music in this country as most commercial artists refer to us underground cats when they need hits but it’s a bit unfair though it’s truthful, It all about working hard and not giving up on your craft and eventually one day the light would shine on you, you have to be optimistic, plus lately it easy to market yourself to the wider audience through the use of social media platforms.

13. Now looking at the South African music industry as a whole what are some things you like or dislike and given the power to change some things what would those be?

V&K: For me the south African music industry is full of tremendous talent and exceptional artists but it would be nice if blowing up and giving small artists a platform to showcase their talent more frequently would up the game and standard of music this will expose the fans to a lot of good quality music that is lying in people’s hard drives and computers but deserve exposure, so those who already are big should open doors to those who are still knocking.

14. In attempts to aid the underground community grow what are some the things you can add as suggestions to help strengthen the slowly emerging and the future offspring who either want to be in music or art in general?

V&K: Give upcoming Dj’s a chance on events and clubs. Pay them for their worth after you’ve rendered they’re services. We cannot have same line ups in clubs week in week out.

15. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your Meet Me Underground mix?

V&K: Thank u Brother I hope and wish more platforms like yours are given a chance as a passage from underground to commercial exposure for upcoming artists, the Mix I did for u is Soulful and funky grown yet one you can rock while driving or when chilling on a Sunday afternoon with your friends as we always say at Veteran and Kartels #BekeLeBeke week in week out I hope people enjoy.

 Download: 069 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Veteran & Kartels

Meet Me Underground: Ian Pelo (Gauteng)

As most have noticed our space adventures in the underground universe have been at a halt after returning to home world we have had a little break but once a traveller always a traveller. Plus there is so much we still need to explore and uncover so we now we get into our spaceship and fire it up and ready to seek new vista’s & planets. We glad to be back and for our first guest of the year we are joined by one very elite selector/spinner & collector, very known amongst the underground realm “Ian Pelo”. We had a chance to speak to him about his take on underground music and his creative process.

Download: 068 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Ian Pelo

1. Greetings gentle brother, how nice of you to finally join us at MMU. Please, just briefly, can you tell our friends & followers about yourself?

IP: Greetings “MMU”, The Reader’s and Listeners. It’s an honour to finally join you guys at MMU. My name is Ian Pelo & it is not my stage name it’s my real name. I come from a little pretty township in the west of Johannesburg called “Swaneville/Rietvallei Ext 1” I’m an Artist.

2. Your name carries a lot of weight in the underground music scene, not usually sung (for those in the know), how did you ever establish that?

IP: Is it! I don’t know that, maybe it’s because people keep that to themselves. I’d like to think it’s the music I play and the way I play it.

3. We’ve heard quite a lot of your mixes, local, abroad, self-released and noticed a distinct change in the music you play, what made you go cross-genre?

IP: Thanks for listening. Curiosity made me cross-genre. I’m always looking for something new to me, when I find that thing I love to expose it because it makes me feel good.

4. It’s no surprise that a genuine artist avoids trends (and we do understand that it’s always a matter of preference) what do you feel sets you apart and where do you draw your inspiration from?

IP: I think what sets me apart is what I’m drawn to, what I like you find that people don’t like/don’t know about it. I draw inspiration everywhere, from gym, jogging, watching, listening and reading interviews…etc.

5. Your uncompromising respect and discipline towards music in its entirety has opened doors for you not just here but abroad even. A label so esoteric like Udacha, how did that relationship with them come to life?

IP: I did a mix for one of your friend’s he’s name is “Luh” Luthando if I’m not mistaken he’s an Engineer now. So Alexey “A5” listened to the mix and loved it asked me to do a mix for Udacha I obviously said yes, so usually what I do before I do a mix for someone I ask that person what would he/she like me to focus on in terms of Genre/Style of music, Alexey “A5” said he wants exactly what I did for “Luh” of which is difficult to do exactly that because I can’t capture that exact moment again but after a few minutes Alexey “A5” said he’s taking that mix and he’s going to use it for Udacha.

6. Looking at the progression of our local underground music scene, do you think its broad enough without compromise?

IP: Unfortunately I don’t know anything about our local underground music scene.

7. As a selector of fine tunes how often do you play out?

IP: Unfortunately I don’t play out; if it happens it’s once in a blue moon.

8. How do you measure the success of an event or private session as far as underground music is concerned?

IP: I measure it by a good quality sound system, music and a Daring and Experimental Artist/Selector/Dj/Presenter

9. This is probably the second longest mix on the show if I’m not mistaken, please, give our friends and followers a glimpse of what to expect?

IP: Is it. Expect! I don’t want to lead people on. There’s no 4, 4 beat. It’s Experimental, Glitch; Drone the music that I played.

10. What do you have on rotation lately? What albums are you playing?

IP: Now it’s Hip Hop, Trap, Trap soul, RnB. Everything that’s been out since the beginning of the year.

11. There’s got to be artists whom you hold dearly, from the top of your head could you give us at least five?

IP: Unfortunately I don’t have any that I hold dearly, if there was they would only last for a second and the list changes. I stay open to everything and everyone and I understand that everyone has something to offer and it is different, what I do is to just accept it.

12. Your musical choice & style is diversified and intensely personal. How do you manage to unearth such abstract musical craftsmanship?

IP: I listen and look for songs that speak to me and not only me but to each other “Songs that complement each other”.

13. Not trying to spoil it for our listeners, but the tape has an infinity of moods that definitely reflect the deepest parts of electronic music, do you think you’re bound to crawl deeper into the rabbit hole as you already have?

IP: Yes of course. I’m always looking for something new, with all these creative’s out there, there’s always something.

14. There has always been an affinity you behold within, and anyone with a discerning ear can hear it in the music. Are you comfortable with opening sets and creating the ambience?

IP: Yes I am. It doesn’t matter for me, as long as I play music its fine with me.

15. I remember we once spoke about 4/5 years back and you mentioned having your own music on some tape you released, are we ever going to see the release of your music at some point?

IP: Yes of course.

16. You seem very skillful at and physical activities. When did you take interest in working out?

IP: I think 13 years but it got serious in 2018 when I was recruited by a friend to join him, Thanks to you for reaching out.

Do Enjoy Family Friends & Stay Underground.

Meet Me Underground: Kilogram (Tsakane)

It has truly been a great moment and time on Zam’s home planet, the music culture here is not like any other. Though as travellers we have to bow and take leave. We will be back on this planet I am sure about that, some great imperial guards that we would be glad to share their story with you underground folk. Our next escapade takes us to the field of creativity the “free roam zone” where we bound to meet upcoming & emerging talent from the underground. This month we are fortunate to be joined by South African Deep House/Dub Techno music producer and collector who goes by the name “Kilogram“ who is a young talent who is working to rise up in the ranks of sonics & electronic vibrations. Ladies & Gentleman meet Kilogram.

1. Greetings and Welcome to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

K: My name is Kagiso Morare Known as Kilogram I’m from Johannesburg/Tsakane

2. How did the name “Kilogram” come about? Did you get it from someone or was it one you came up with?

K: The name Kilogram comes from my real name “Kagiso” KG, a friend of mine came up with the name “Kilogram” and I fell in love with the name.

3. Being “Underground” has different meanings depending on the individual. What does it mean to you and how can you best explain the term?

K: Something that is underground is below the surface of the ground, According to music the underground is Deep music which is not known by a lot of people.

4. So is “Kilogram” underground? Why you say so?

K: Hahaha, Yep Kilogram is underground I may say, I roll with underground music like Deep House, Dub Techno & Deep Techno music.

5. Where does your story with music start? Was it from your childhood or did you only become more musically connected at a later stage in life? Who or what made you love music the way you do now?

K: My story with music started early 2009 and I was introduced by a friend of mine “Sfiso Sehlali” one of the best Deep House producers I Know.

6. How did you get into music production? & how has that journey been for you?

K: My love for music pushed me into music production and it wasn’t easy starting music production, so I decided to make my own music and share with people.

7. Do you think DJ’s get more recognition then actual producers, if so how does it make you feel as a creator yourself?

K: Uhmmm, I could say no, because your own music spreads your name too quickly than a DJ but that’s my own opinion.

8. Between collecting music, spinning & producing which would you say you enjoy more?

K: Collecting music and Music production.

9. What DAW [Digital Audio Workstation] do you use and why do you prefer it amongst others?

K: I’m using Ableton Live, Ableton arguably contains the most superior sounding warp algorithm, it features more warp modes than any other DAW.

10. Please share with us your current favorite Top 10 producers? [Local & International]

K:

• Saison
• Intr0beatz
• Rephlex
• Kassian
• Cuillere
• Rhode & Brown
• Fouk
• Black Loops
• Cody Currie
• Demarkus Lewis

11. How can you best explain the sound you make?

K: The sound I make has a lot of groove and Deep Vibes it’s the kind of vibes that makes you dance even if you don’t want to, hahaha.

12. Where do you see the future of House/Electronic music going in the next few years here in our country?

K: House music grows each and every day in SA; we are still going to hear more music in the future.

13. Releasing music has proven easier & also difficult these days, are there challenges you have faced of late?

K: Yes it’s not easy finding a Label to publish your own music, But I’ve been Working on a Remix for Denis Pylaev for a Label Known as OneSun Yellow from (Russia) And a Single I did for a compilation on a Label known as Insectorama (Germany) But Those are Dub Techno Labels and I’m using my real name for Dub Techno music, “Kagiso Morare.

14. Have you ever thought of creating your record label? & why?

K: Truly Speaking, No.

15. What are some artist collaborations & labels you would hopefully like to get your music on/with?

K: 

• Saison (No Fuss Records)
• Igor Gonya (Lisztomania Records)
• (Large Music)

16. The impact of C-19 has been felt all over the world, especially in the industry of music. How has it impacted you personally (if it has) and what ways can we use moving forward to counter such a heavy blow to the industry?

K: The music industry has been significantly affected in many ways, from sales and spending, advertising to distribution, Covid has affected so many things.

17. What are your thoughts of the South African music industry in reference to the underground sound? If you had an ability to change what could you change?

K: In SA House music keeps evolving and has made a name for itself on the international scene.

18. What can we expect from you in the near future? [Late 2021 or Next Year]

K: December 2021 There is a compilation coming out on Insectorama; digitally and on CD’s my track will be included in there [VA “Kagiso Morare – Midnight Visions”]

19. In attempts to aid the underground community grow what are some the things you can add as suggestions to help strengthen the slowly emerging and the future offspring who either want to be in music or art in general?

K: To be determined and stay discovering.

20. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your Meet Me Underground mix?

K: The mix I did explains a lot about the underground music as I selected the finest underground House and it came out of love and Thanks to you Leko on Pluto, Cheers!

Download: 067 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Kilogram 

Meet Me Underground: Zam Dee (Pietermaritzburg; Masses Of House)

We return to the underground cosmic journey after a pleasurable stay on our previous planet of “Ten Shades Of Deep”. Our goodbyes are in order as we seek nw vibrational stories to share with you realmers. This month we visit a planet quite close to home planet. A place filled with familiar faces/energy/warmth and musical greatness. “Masses Of House” is what it’s called. This planet has numerous vanguards and shamans all possessing their own power and unique ability but together they come together to create a great stronghold, one we have ever seen the music cosmos. On our arrival to the planet we welcomed by one the masters of the planet whom they call Zam Dee,who invites us in and shares a bit about his life and his musical journey. Ladies & Gentleman meet Zam Dee…

MEET ME UNDERGROUND [Questions]: Zam Dee

1. Greetings and Welcome to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

ZD: My name is Zam Dee, from Pietermaritzburg. I’m a collector and lover of Music.

2. “Underground” is a term that can be given multiple but similar definitions. Given a chance to give your personal take on the term how would you go about it?

ZD: Personally, Underground for me, means different in the way you deliver music in playing, we are all underground in various aspects.

3. Taking from your previous answer, Is Zam Dee underground and what is that stand out quality that makes you underground?

ZD: I wouldn’t say I’m underground, but a different cup of tea buy always giving myself a chance to try and do different chance I get.

4. Where does your journey began, early childhood or music is something you found out about later in life and what are some of the reasons which drawn you deeper into it?

ZD: My musical journey began at a very young age, reason being, having been raised in a musical home already. My father used to sing for the Maritzburg Choir, so I was exposed to music from a young age but found what made sense to my ears as I grew older.

5. The art of spinning has changed as time has unfolded, how vital do you think is perfecting spinning as to knowing which songs to play?

ZD: For me, the art begins before you even play for the crowd. When you are still alone & track selecting your playlist, that’s where it starts for me. Having a great track selection leads to better mixing, then sequencing follows effortlessly.

6. Who are some spinners you take inspiration from or inspire to better your craft and approach?

ZD: I grew up inspired by the likes of Rocco, Lars Behrenroth, Ralf Gum, DJ Fresh, DJ Mbuso, Vinny Da Vinci, Glen Lewis, Black Coffee just to name a few. I have grown into having access to more artists over the years.

7. Say you had to be stuck on an island for a month and you had to bring 5 records/albums you were allowed to play all month what will those be?

ZD:  Only 5? I think I’d last a month listening to:

• There’s Music In The Air by Letta Mbulu
• Hope by Hugh Masekela
• The Indigenous Afro-Jazz Sound Of Malombo Jazzman and Philip Tabane
• Home Brewed by Black Coffee
• Nocturne by Alfa Mist

8. If it wasn’t music, Zam Dee would be?

ZD: An events coordinator or I’d stick to Information Technology.

9. Looking back at your first gig you played at what are your highlights and is there anything you would change?

ZD: Yes, a couple of things actually, but the main one would’ve been stage fright.

10. “Masses of House” can you give us a walkthrough on how the group was formed and who is in it?’

ZD: In a nutshell, a group of Deejays that saw an opportunity to help each other grow musically came together with the idea of creating their own events and showcasing one another to a broader audience.

11. The aim of the collective [MOH] is to & will we be seeing some more recruits in the future?

ZD: Too soon to say or maybe I should say it hasn’t been discussed yet.

12. How beneficial is working with such an elite group in growing yourself individually from a musical perspective?

ZD: Ever heard the saying, “Two minds are better than one”? Now imagine six.

13. What can we expect from you guys in the near future? [Any mixes; Gigs; Merchandise etc.]

ZD: It’s a surprise.

 

14. The impact of C-19 has been felt all over the world, especially in the industry of music. How has it impacted you personally (if it has) and what ways can we use moving forward to counter such a heavy blow to the industry?

ZD: If anything, this should’ve have been the one time where musicians, artists etc., come together in support of each other, but the industry has been what it has been since before the pandemic. I just hope that after all of this, people are able to bounce back respectively.

15. What are your thoughts of the South African music industry in reference to the underground sound? If you had an ability to change what could you change?

ZD: SA music has changed so much that I enjoy a couple of song that I would’ve never given the light of day before. Honestly, I’d change nothing.

16. What are you doing for the underground community in your city?

ZD: I’d give anything if I had time on my hands, but only time will tell.

17. Any personal upcoming gigs/podcast specials or appearances on podcasts we should keep an eye out for?

ZD: With this ongoing pandemic, there’s nothing much being planned on my side. Let’s get the vaccine then we’ll see thereafter.

18. In attempts to aid the underground community grow what are some the things you can add as suggestions to help strengthen the slowly emerging and the future offspring?

ZD: Just play you; what you feel best represents you, who you feel people should see/hear. Basically, just stay true to you.

19. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your Meet Me Underground mix?

ZD: This mix has music from artists that I’ve learned to respect over the years, thanks to their truthfulness in music and always staying true to what they believe and never let anything come between what they believe musically. But just cue the music and thanks for having me. Enjoy.

Download: 066 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Zam Dee

Meet Me Underground: Terrence Thee Dj (Mpumalanga; Ten Shades Of Deep Sessions)

How can we fault the Godz for the hospitality they have granted us on their homeworld “Underground Vibez”. The experience has been glorious and highly emancipating, their dubby ceremony that they performed for us truly still lingers within our minds Unforgettable! to say the least. After refueling we punch in some coded coordinates we was handed on one of our trips in our past. They have heard we seek to travel the underground realm seeking new planets and stars to discover. This month we travel to the south quartile of the cosmos in which we find all things deep. There is talk of a planet called “TSDS”  in which we have heard some of it’s radio waves bellowing in the most deep parts of the realm. We fortunate to find the young shaman of this place “Groning” as some may call him, who invites us to walk and talk with him in the tranquil garden as he relays to us his life story and the planets history. Everyone meet Terrence Thee DJ

 

1. Greetings and Welcome to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

T: Greetings to all the MMU family members, I go by Terrence Groning aka Terrence Thee Dj; I’m a 20 year old from the outskirts of Mpumalanga in the infamous region of Nkomazi. I’m what most would call a podcaster and I host my monthly show ‘Ten Shades of Deep Sessions’ abbreviated ‘TSDS’.

2. The term “Underground” touches the idea of being rare, special & unique can you give us Terrence’s personal definition and what does being Underground mean to you?

T: Uhmm…being underground means so much to me for I can be me in any way I want, hence I can tell all the stories I want to through my sound without an individual questioning as to why I took that certain route.

3. “Underground” is more of a culture one could say, Do you believe in this and what are some of your own personal growth experiences from it?

T: I do believe “Underground” is a culture, I met a lot of people in my short time there who are more like brothers and sisters to me almost all of them encouraged me to focus on finding my own signature sound rather than copying someone else’s and that for me was eye opening. I now can tell whatever story I want to through my music all thanks to the underground, it really helped find myself I can say.

 

4. Where does Terrence’s musical journey begin? Is it from your early childhood or it’s more of something you found out about at school and who can you say was the main driver to you loving/collecting and spinning music?

T: My musical journey starts from my childhood days. My mom would play a lot of Jazz, Soul, World Music most of the time and these sounds sharpened my ears till today I’m grateful to her for because if it wasn’t for her maybe I wouldn’t be even here now.

5. What are you listening to right now? (The music on your phone/Laptop)?

T: I’ve been listening to a lot of Hip-Hop, Neo Soul and Jazz etc. Been listening to everything non-house trying to find inspiration whilst giving me a break from House & Deep House.

6. Collecting and Spinning a wide range of music can be seen as helpful towards your DJ technique does this apply to you or you feel as if as long as the music is played transition isn’t so important?

T: I feel it really is helpful for it opens your eyes in ways you’d imagine since I think every genre / style has a certain way of which it has to played or delivered.

7. If you were stuck on an Island for a month and you had a chance to bring 5 records/albums with you what would those 5 be?

T: Uhmm…my top 5 records to take to an island with me would be ; 1 Cleo Sol – Rose In The Dark, 2 Erykah Badu – Baduizm, 3 Nubya Garcia – Source, 4 Seba Kaapstad – Konke, 5 Loyle Carnet – Not Waving, But Drowning. Yeah these got to be the albums I’d take with me.

8. Time constantly brings forth change within each scene of music, bringing change to individuals to. Looking where you started and where you are can you say the change you have undergone is good?

T: I’m very much satisfied with the change I’ve undergone because I’ve really been struggling to find my sound and how to deliver a story though the music, I feel now having evolved I stand a better chance of executing whatever I want to.

9. How important is it to you to always maintain a high standard either being it a live set or one of your podcast recordings?

T: It’s important for me because I want to dish out good music and introduce my audience / listeners to new music at the same time.

10. Can you give us your 10 favorite go to labels that rarely ever disappoint you?

T: If I tell you I have a favorite go to label I’d be lying but I have a few I personally know they’d never really disappoint, that’s actually ; Smallville Records, Shall Not Fade, Nomada Records, Blaq Numbers etc. There’s plenty labels that don’t really disappoint I’m even confused right now.

11. Let’s talk about “TSDS” [Ten Shades of Deep Sessions], how did it begin? What made you want to start it and who are some of the people you work with in it?

T: Ten Shades of Deep Sessions was actually influenced by Lars’ ‘DSOH’, it was back in 2016 (late 2016) where I had this idea of starting my own podcast since I also wanted to introduce people in and around my home town (there’s not much knowledge about Deep House in my hometown hence I had hoped to introduce them to the sounds) the kind of music I love and also let me meet new people and get to share music with them and our listeners. TSDS is a solo project I got no one else in the sidelines I do almost everything by myself.

12. Each podcast has its own issues and problems have you faced any as of late and what have you done to overcome these?

T: I haven’t really faced major problems, the only thing I encountered was one of my guests failing to submit a mixtape in due time but those are minor problems since I can always step up for that particular episode.

13. Given a time frame of about 4 years from now, where is Ten Shades going and what can we expect from it?

T: I’m looking forward to growing TSDS as a brand since I already started printing out and selling some merchandise, but we’ll see what the future holds I can’t say much for now besides that.

 

14. The impact of C-19 has been felt all over the world, especially in the industry of music. How has it impacted you personally (if it has) and what ways can we use moving forward to counter such a heavy blow to the industry?

T: I can’t really say it has affected me personally for I hardly get booked for gigs, I express my musical self through podcasting gigs are a bonus for me. I think virtual parties would do for DJs I just don’t know how is revenue generated in doing so, as for our fellow Producers / Musicians I’d like to encourage all our brothers and sisters to continue supporting them by buying their music and streaming it in order keep the music coming.

15. What are your thoughts of the South African music industry in reference to the underground sound? If you had an ability to change what could you change?

T: I think the South African industry hasn’t fully embraced the underground sound since we hardly see most of our underground cats blow up or making it big in the commercial scene, I wouldn’t really want to change much besides eradicating the politics in music for they form a huge barrier between the underground and commercial scene.

16. What are you doing for the underground community in your city?

T: For now I haven’t really done much since the underground sound is almost alien to most ears this side, but with time I hope with better chances I’ll figure something out with a few friends of mine.

17. Any upcoming gigs/podcast specials or appearances on podcasts we should keep an eye out for?

T: Don’t really have a confirmed gig as of yet but I have a few mixes to record for podcasts such as ; Vibe It Out, Interminable Melodies, House Music Worshippers, Surreal Grooves Podcast and more.

18. In attempts to aid the underground community grow what are some the things you can add as suggestions to help strengthen the slowly emerging and the future offspring?

T: I’d say let’s just ease off on the music politics for they divide us, we simply have to preach the gospel in peace and boast a united front in order for us to grow strong.

19. Any other closing remarks?

T: Uhmm…I really am humbled having been featured on one of the most prolific podcasts in the Southern Africa, and a very eye opening QnA this has been. Thanks to MMU family for having me.

20. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your Meet Me Underground mix?

T: Thank you, same goes to you. I’m my Meet Me Underground mix is meant to pay homage to all our oppressed and struggling African brothers & sisters since we really are facing much greater things than we should, I had recorded this mix before the whole saga our fellow Eswatini brothers and sisters would even start a protest in hopes of eradicating what happens to be the last monarch in the Southern Africa, it’s almost as if I was sending a subliminal message. Other than that with this mix I send messages to our Black / African community at large.

Download: 065 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Terrence Thee Dj

 

Meet Me Underground: GodzOnEarth(Pietermaritzburg; Underground Vibes)

Analogue Anonymous has been a thrill, a planet in which we have had such a wonderful time on, meeting the folk of this place and the amazing music we was graced with by the Nolumyuzik the ruler of this majestic world. Hopefully we shall crash course again on this planet and have an entirely new experience in eons to come. On our travel back to home world for some needed jet fuel we decide to detour course and head towards the rotating stars quadrant, where we have heard of legend of two guardians who pride themselves in serving nothing but the finest vibrations. They have said to have departed Earth before it’s catastrophic demise in the year 4040 AD. They had reached a level which surpassed normal humans and had reach the stature of Godliness. On their newly found home “Underground Vibes” we are glad to meet “GodzOnEarth”  

 

1. Greetings and Welcome to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

L: My name is Loyiso Clinton Zuma, born on the third of July year 2000. I am located in Pietermaritzburg, in KwaPata. Still studying, studying Engineering, and living with my family. Spending some quality time with my family and friends is something I really, really enjoy because Clinton will be in charge of the aux cable.

S: Hola, & my name is Sandi Ndlovu (20) we are from Pietermaritzburg (KZN), together we form a duo called the GodzOnEarth.

2. Let’s first dive in to how you two guys met, how was the duo formed and what was your ideal purposes of forming “GodzOnEarth”?

L: Sandi and I are friends. Actually I’d say we are brothers. We are former high school mates and Alexandra High School was the place where the Gods first met. GodzOnEarth, named by Sandi, formed when we shared our first Deep house mixtapes to ourselves. We were both impressed with the music we shared, that’s when we realized that mostly through music, we can actually make history and tell a story, and that story be shared. I never hesitated to say ‘’hell yeah’’ when Sandi mentioned that we should explore and share music, it has always been my dream as well. Learn more about music, travel the world and experience new sounds, connect with people and create a vibe for all.

S: Let me try and keep the story simple, we basically met in Alexandra High School on our first year when we were in the same class @ Grade 8. As we spent more time with each other we began to realise that actually have a similar taste and we vibe to similar music styles. After that we started sharing mixes, singles, and albums we were listening to at the time, music from Atjazz, Epic roots, Aeon, Skyhigh Hour just to name a few. In 2017(Grade 11) we decided to start our musical/artistic journey by Forming our duo and giving birth to the underground vibes podcast/movement, with the aim/purpose of sharing our creative side and playing music for the people who can relate.

3. The word “Underground” is associated with being unique & different, what is your own personal definition of this term and what makes you guys underground?

L: Personally, I define Underground as peacemaker, motivation, lover, excitement; I define it as a blessing because we seek to make wonders. What makes us underground is that we seek to bring about change through music and make a vibe that will exist even if the Gods are no longer on them decks. 

S: My criteria for underground is broad but to keep things simple, I would say I associate the term underground with music/things that are given less attention, Music/art that  is exceptionally good, but does not get the limelight on a massive scale. What makes us underground it is the fact we are on the come up and the art we convey is part of the underground family.

4. Both of you have a different stories to tell in terms of your personal musical journeys. Though both may have similar traits. If you can tell us when did you both discover music, was it from childhood or later in life and who are some people you recall who made you love music?

L: Childhood because I could dance. As the years went, just before I turned 15, I started to listen more and less dancing. I still remember it was the festive season. Zipho, nicknamed Coffee Bean, introduced me to the duo I deeply adore and still do, Paskal & Urban Absolutes. As I turned fifteen, I started growing in the music, searching new artists, extending my playlist. Since then, I never stopped with getting new music and discovering new talent.

S: Well since a very young age I have always been a music fiend, but I would say I got into my element at the age of 10/11. My older brother and I bonded by listening to his CD’s he collected and that is how I got introduced to Deep house music and some of my favourite hip hop artists.

5. “GOE” is the coming together of two minds, how has that dynamic helped you guys from a growth perspective?

L:  It has helped us a lot because combining our minds has made us come with ideas to help create a pathway to our goals. It has showed that carrying a heavy box together makes things easier. It has showed that standing together we can build new wonders, we can bring a vibe that can never be compared to. Most importantly, it has helped us to keep reminding each other why GodzOnEarth was formed and get what we desire.

S:  It has helped us grow in the sense that we influence each other in the way we do things, whether it is in life or music.

6. Care to share with us what you currently listening to on your phone/laptop (Top 10)

L:  Paskal & Urban Absolutes, Deep Inspiration Show, Sky High Hour Podcast, Action Bronson, Dash, Underground Vibes, David August, DJ Buhle, Marian Mereba, Helmet Cracker Movement.

S: Wendell Higgs- The lost tapes (album)

Roc Marciano- Mt. Marci (Album)

                         -Marcielago (Album)

Action Bronson- Only for Dolphins (Album)

Da$H- V.I.C.E.S (album)

Satore- Back Home EP

WeedAqtivism Podcast session #013 Guest mix by Lansdub 

Universal Solution- Berg (Alveol Remix)

Emma Brammer- Thunder EP

                             -Cutting Ties EP

 

7. As collectors of various music, do you guys have a preferred genre you play or as long as it’s music then you are down with it?

L: Music comes in many forms and we are about sharing those unique sounds. We play various genres, Deep house, Funk, Nu-Disco, Dub, Deep soul etc. to ensure that when we share music, everyone gets to hear their favorite genres playing with mind-blowing instruments that causes infinite happiness.

S: I am open to listening to various types of music as long it is something I can vibe, relate to and enjoy.

8. For someone who would be hearing a GodzOnEarth live set for the first time what can they expect, what goes into the selection process?

L: Hearing GodzOnEarth for the first time would be a blessing for you. Music played or selected carries a feeling within and have a purpose. Music isn’t just music, GodzOnEarth are all about letting the feelings that come with the music, and really enjoy sharing that feeling with a crowd of people. It must create a vibe where people will focus on the Gods on decks and allow the adrenalin to take control.

S: We always do back to back sets, firstly we must agree on the genre we going to play if it is dub techno then we will both bring what we have and as the set moves forward, we try to complement each other whilst bring our own personal taste to the set. Our live sets can be described in two words Heat and energy.

9. How important is it to you guys to always maintain a high standard either being it a live set or one of your podcast recordings?

L:  Music hits differently when heard for the first time. It awakens happiness in them darkest hearts, it units people all around the world, it changes a frown into a smile, it helps one’s mind focus and relax, most importantly it overpowers hate. That is why we got to maintain a high standard.

S: It is an important aspect, maintaining a high standard can be beneficial and detrimental at the same time. Fellow artists will know because maintaining a high standard can turn one into a perfectionist and it does improve the taste buds + the performance as a whole but it can also lead a person into depression or anxiety because of a lack of satisfaction.

10. You have recently shared that you going into merchandise how is that coming along?

L: It is coming up pretty good actually, it’s impressive. People love the brand and are willing to support. They seek to lend a hand in spreading the word and motivating us to keep producing and add a variety of other clothes to help boost our brand.

S: So far so good hopefully soon enough we’ll be distributing the item.

11. Let’s talk about “Underground Vibes” how did the show start and can you give us a walkthrough on how everything works in it?

L: Well similar to how GodzOnEarth was formed, Sandi. He just came with the idea unexpectedly; the music we both played was amazing. Sandi also came with the name of the show and I loved it. Since then we have dedicated ourselves to the show and to never stop sharing blessings of music.

S: Underground Vibes is basically a platform that allows artists to showcase their creativity, no specific criteria just artists taking us on a musical trip.

12. You also residents on Resurrected Youth Radio, how did this come about?

L:  At that time we still trying to share our brand and go viral. So we would ask for guests mix at different shows to show case music that makes your hair fall off. My partner, my friend and my brother Sandi got connected to the manager of the show and luckily the manager enjoyed our mixtapes. That’s how we ended up being residents.

S: In 2018 we got approached by the Head honcho Kopano Maboe, he told us he had been listening to what we were offering. He then told us about he’s movement and he’s endeavours this was the main reason why we decided to join up with the family and offer our services to Resurrected Youth Radio.

13. Each venture has problems from time to time, what are some of the issues you have faced and how have you overcome them?

L:  Well, we live a bit further from each other, Sandi and I so we had to travel when we had to record. Transport fair would be a problem at times and also buying new music causing us to not record. There was another brand we wanted to share but GodzOnEarth came up on top and started to sell so can we buy new music and also travel to places if we have gigs or to record.

S: One of the biggest problems has been taking our creativity to the next level as a duo. We have worked together and collaborated for a long time, as that happens routines begin to develop, that has been our biggest problem using the same routines over and over. We then decided to take a break from working as a duo and going on individual journeys to sharpen our personal skills. This has proven to be beneficial because our passion and creativity has been re awakened.

14. Where do you see “Underground Vibes” in the next 5 years? & what will be the contribution to the underground scene?

L: I see Underground Vibes hitting the headlines, I see Underground Vibes being best friends with people’s tongues, I see Underground Vibes being downloaded on a daily and I see Underground Vibes representing Pietermaritzburg and South Africa nationwide. I see Underground Vibes making history and show that will never be forgotten.

S: In 5 years I feel like Underground Ground vibes will have grown as a movement, since we also have ventures in place like having a record label, collaborating with artists and having Merchandise of course.

15. Any upcoming gigs/podcast specials or appearances on podcasts we should keep an eye out for?

L: There are birthday podcast specials’ that are still pending and the podcast we will be dropping a guest soon, then more of GodzOnEarth and many more guests to bless the people. And in July we are playing at NSSoul Msomi’s Birthday Celebration, where we will be dropping those unique sounds.

S: On the 24^th of July we are invited to play on Music is Power: NS Soul’s birthday hang out and he has tasked us with handling a guest mix for Weedaqtivism sessions, be on the lookout for those two.

16. The impact of C-19 has been felt all over the world, especially in the industry of music. How has it impacted you personally (if it has) and what ways can we use moving forward to counter such a heavy blow to the industry?

L: It has shortened the time pace; it has made things hard because there is still a heavy load of schoolwork to do in a short period of time. Affecting my time to focus on music and producing music. But it also created room for motivation, to keep pushing use the little time I get to take another step closer to our goal. We have to stick to the regulations and respect each other. Sanitize, wear our masks and keep our distance. We have to keep reminding each other how life is beautiful and wish to share our stories to our grandchildren about how Earth is a wonderful place.

S: I feel like we have benefited and got disrupted by C-19, because C-19 gave us time to polish our production skills, and at the same time this meant that gigs had to be cancelled and we had to stay indoors. I feel like artists or the industry suffered financially without gigs so to counter this I could say maybe having reliable revenue streams would help counter the issue.

17. In attempts to aid the underground community grow what are some the things you can add as suggestions to help strengthen the slowly emerging and the future offspring?

L: Well, patience is key. We are in no rush. Life is has challenges and those challenges are test to see if you truly deserve the talent you were given. Stick to your slogan, stick to who you are and play music that you feel, not music that you know people already know. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing but coming with new sounds and being creative, will help when you producing cause you also come with different sounds. You can also end up creating a new genre.

S: I think that it is important to believe in your craft; secondly it is important to take inspiration from various sources that will help you grow as a person and as an artist.

18. Any other closing remarks?

L: Thank you very much for the opportunity to showcase some quality on the Meet Me Underground podcast, truly an honor. It’s still the beginning, meaning the journey started and there’s still a whole lot more GodzOnEarth will deliver.

 

19. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your Meet Me Underground mix?

L: The mix is filled with some groovy dub sounds that will make you nod till your neck breaks. It’s Godly and filled with blessings, hope you all enjoy. Again, thank you and for having us.

S: The mix is a combination of atmospheric/ambient, groovy and heavy hitting deep/dub techno tracks; all in all it is an eclectic mix.

Download: 064 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By GodzOnEarth

Do Enjoy Everyone 🙂

Meet Me Underground: Nolumyuzik (Johannesburg; Analogue Anonymous)

As we venture out of the medicx atmosphere we pick up a strong strange signal signal, we hover around looking to find it’s but its deeply embedded with some of sorcery or code, the galactic sky goes pitch black with no star insight in the darkness all we can hear is a subtle sound beeping at a distance. We heard towards it with caution Bang! Light! a welcome heads on our radar. Welcome to Analogue Anonymous!….Welcome to Analogue Anonymous!. Amongst the realmers we have met on our recent travels they have spoken about this planet and we are quite honoured to be granted a chance to speak with the leader of this place whom she is known far and wide for her music knowledge and curating skills. Everyone meet Nolumyuzik

 

1. Greetings & welcome to Meet Me Underground glad you could join us, can you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

N: Nolumyuzik, An avid record collector, lover of music and vinyl Dj.

2. As for most that are wondering like I, how did the name “NoluMyuzik” come about? A title you gave yourself or someone else gave you the name?

N: Someone jokingly said the way I love music; I will surely get killed by it, I am such a junkie. Lol. I therefore proceeded to call myself NoluMyuzikJunkie and then later changed it to Nolumyuzik.

3. Now the term “Underground” or the idea of being “Underground” is quite a pickle. Some saying it has meaning and others just calling it nothing but a mindset created by a few individuals who deem themselves special. Given the chance to give your own definition of the word what would you say the term means to you?

N: To me, Underground, simply refers to music that one does not normally hear on mainstream radio.

4. Taking from you answer above can we say NoluMyuzik is underground & why?

N:  You can say NoluMyuzik plays Underground music.

5. The “True Connection” experience with music comes to us in different forms and times. Some at a young age through family and friends and others later in life. When did your encounter happen and what was the main driver to you deciding you want to be a collector & spinner?

N: Initially At high school level, and then it was revisited a few years back, that’s when I started collecting vinyl.

6. In recent interviews you have mentioned that the film “Juice” was one of your main pushes to be a spinner. Let’s say “Juice” was never made, would we still have NoluMyuzik? If not where do you think she would be?

N: Yes, there would. At the same time I discovered “Juice’, I would attend HipHop sessions/battles.  I wanted to be part of the whole thing, but knew that I couldn’t Rap to save my life. So there was a Dj that would play during breaks, and I was like; Ok, now this (Deejaying), is doable!” Lol

7. Please share with us some of your favorite records/albums [5 min – 10 Max]

N:

• MF Doom – Special Herbs
• Chet Faker- Thinking in textures
• St Germain – St Germain
• Owusu And Hannibal
• Nostalgia77

 

8. What are some of things you believe contribute heavily to the underestimating of Females in the industry and why do you think some of these things are present even today?

N: I think females are underestimated in all spheres of life. Females are the “Niggars” of the world. Bringing it back to the music industry, I think it’s a matter of failing to “catch-up” to the fast changing world and failure to grasp the concept that music/ Dj-ing is not a gender skill. I think there’s a lot of education that is still needed (by females also) in this regard. This is judging by nuances such as a person introducing themselves as a ‘Female Dj’, or a flyer that has an “All Female Lineup”. Sometimes the underestimating is not even with malicious intent; it’s just cognitive dissonance that exists among humans.

9. The fight for women to be appreciated adequately in the industry is on the road what efforts could you emphasize to reach total equality?

N: I think a lot of effort can be placed in collaboration. The ‘’each to their own’ mentality will be the end of us.

10. Can you share with us some of your top 5 female spinners in the country right now?

N: S-Girl, Thobs, Lihle, Skillet and Nocy (Durban)

11. “Format Wars”, There has been constant upheaval amongst collectors some saying Vinyl is better than all other formats. What is your take on other formats CD/Tape/Digital etc.?

N: I think it’s all just the same; it all boils down to preference.

12. You’re a Resident DJ for the Coquette Vinyl Session how did that come about?

N: The owner of Coquette was impressed by my sets and reached out to me.

13. What is “Analogue Anonymous”?

N: A support group for vinyl addicts Lol.

14. From the spinning side you have seen how the C-19 pandemic has crippled the entire entertainment/performing arts sector. How has this affected you and what are some of the things you would if you were the government to aid the issue?

N:  It has hampered a lot of plans, it has however, given me a chance to reflect on my craft and find meaning in what Nolumyuzik is about. 

15. What can we expect from you in the second half of the year?

N: (Musical) Growth.

16. What you think about the South African Music Industry as a whole are we going in the right direction and given the chance to change some stuff what will those changes be?

N: I don’t think meaningful music is recognized, let alone celebrated. A lot still needs to be done to educate people musically, like giving underground music more airplay on commercial radio, but also, Dj’s that play underground music need to work together in achieving the bigger picture. Small things, such as sharing your peers’ flyer on your timeline and giving credit where it is due- not only to one’s friends. 

17. The “NoluMyuzik” name has achieved so much in a little space of time. Care to share some wise words to the young girl who looks at you and aspires to venture into collecting/spinning & podcasting?

N: Three things: The need to understand that the music business is SHOW BIZ. People cannot consume what they are not aware of. Don’t be afraid to SHOW. SHOW every day, to everybody, all day if you must. Don’t worry, they see you.

 

Social Media is only 30% of the work. 70% occurs behind the scenes, WORK on your craft, EVERYDAY.

 

Know what you want and what you’re about. Stand firm (it gets really tough) and DO NOT be shaken by the negativity. Just keep it moving and have fun!

18. Where can people get a hold of you? [Social Contacts]

N: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter; @Nolumyuzik

19. Thank you for gracing us with your presence and being part of this month’s experience. Keep well & safe, please give us a walkthrough your mix?

N: Spiritual Jazz, Spoken Word and a bit of Broken Beat.

Thank you.

Download: 063 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Nolumyuzik

Meet Me Underground: DaAncient Ryu (Gauteng; Radio ChillMedicx)

Georges White on his home planet has treated to one spectecular time. The experience is truly a great honour but we need to get moving in search of new and different worlds. We say our goodbyes and jump in our cosmic cruise liner heading to more underground terrain. We have our eyes set out to a planet which we have heard is about vibrational healing planet “Radio ChillMedicx” we going to meet the vanguard of that place who is half warrior and half serpent. DaAncient Ryu they call him. Everyone please give a warm welcome to DaAncient Ryu..

 

1. Greetings and Welcome to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

DAR: Greetings MMU Realm and the universe entirely tuning in, I am so pleased to have this opportunity given to form part of the 2021 series. This is Themba Matu-Ngwenyeni from Vaal Triangle, Sebokeng, many know me by the street name DaAncient Ryu, who is very dedicated, determined, consistent, trustworthy, self-motivated soul packed with great friendly, loyal, and energetic personality, at times is naturally shy yet flexible with different crowds and environment. I have this non-illuminative desire for all sorts of artistry, mainly music and writing.

2. “DaAncient Ryu” is quite a peculiar and different name to have as a moniker, how did you get this name and who gave it to you?

DAR: The name was simply earned from the streets through my participation in the Hip Hop Acts that took place back then in junior era. My peers would see how reserved I was during these activities and called me The Master Dragon which later was derived to Ryu, which is the Ancient Japanese Dragon.

3. First off we would like to know where your journey begins, how did you fall in love with music, what inspired you to be more involved, Has music been a part of you since childhood or something you have connected with more now as you have grown?

DAR: I started off my love passion and path for music back in junior era, even though my understanding for music was still superficial then than now my curiosity grew profoundly to such that it was sympathetic and relative to my everyday livelihood. It was vocal and educative to me even though I was not responsive to it due to the influence of parents; they hated it and fearing that its influence might incarnate me into some savage rascal. Ha-ha… It was rough on the streets back then. Unfortunately, it did not turn me into anything near that, what it only did was to decorate me in to be a better person than I was, not perfect but whom I am today. Gotta thank all the beautiful struggles and mostly Hip Hop. Not forgetting one important aspect, I was producing music (beats) but never put it out there, yet it is something that has been haunting me throughout my life, but one day is one day, maybe in the next lifetime, I will release my own music. Lol…

4. The belief with being “Underground” is that it’s some sort of rarity. Being able to be yourself without being judged. When you hear the word “Underground” what are some of the things that come to mind and how best would you define such a term?

DAR: Underground… Provides a platform to limitless creativities whether it’s business or not, its purpose is to deliver certain narratives whether it is awareness or a lesson. It is vital world which is an opposite of how the one we are living in looks like. To most individuals, this term might be filled with negatives and darkness, not knowing what beauty that takes part in it evolves it.

 

5. With that established, can you say you underground & why?

DAR: I would like to consider myself underground; a vessel of transmitting beneficial messages to people through my music. To be underground would simply means that being good at what I do and with the limited resources I can utilize to reach levels of satisfaction of the people.

6. Growth in music requires constant inspiration & experimentation. Do you exercise this & how?

DAR: Yes, I do exercise this methodology a whole lot, for instance, when I am not practicing my curation, I randomly play old records, movies or documentaries and make samples for experiments. My constant inspiration comes from discovering new music every chance I get when that void, which needs to be fed.

7. What are some of the traits you have transposed from your musical persona to your everyday normal life?

DAR: It has always been the influence of the environment, and life experiences. Most of my music selections are based on emotions experienced in certain timelines; for example, JOY, SADNESS, ACHIEVEMENT or FAILURE etc., there is a certain type of music I have discovered during the process that brought so much healing and sense to my life. I could not be so grateful of these experiences in my life and if certain things never happened, I would not be where I am today because this music have saved me from worse life decisions that would have led my death in. After all these experiences, it is never easy to differentiate my musical persona to my normal life.

8. Looking at the sounds and genres that are currently in our country is there any that make you feel like the scene is going in the right direction? Is there even an underground scene in the country?

DAR: I would say that the current music influence is for the current times, for the current generation, not for us old souls. Music is generational but looking at today’s music sounds it saddens me because there is no message at all. I would rather stick to this kind of music. There are a lot of underground scenes which many are getting in touch with its true reality.

9. Beyond music collecting/spinning/producing and so on what are some other things that people don’t know about you?

DAR: I have passion of cooking and experimenting on different recipes mainly on vegetarian dishes. I also do collect various books to nourish the mind and addicted to gym workouts for both physical and mental fitness.

10. What is some of the music you currently listening right now on your phone/laptop etc. Please share with us a top 10 of your favorite albums?

DAR: Currently, discovering new music as always digging. I am listening to new albums from artists like C Y G N, Stan Folds, Metic and many more…

Here is 0,1 % of my TOP TEN favorite albums, Ha-ha…

Freddie Joachim – Olive Juice (Love Remixes 2009)

L One – Farska LP (2017)

Evil Needle – Reminisce (2015)

Mag’Oveni – Dumeyana: The Sacred Flower (2021)

Potatohead People – Nick & Astro’s Guide to the Galaxy (2018)

Soulchef – Home (2018)

Mecca83 – Life Sketches Vol. 3 (2017)

Flamingosis – Pleasure Palette (2015)

C Y G N – Body N Soul (2018)

Aso – Love Journey (2016)

Ian Ewing – Lakehouse

 

11. Let’s talk about “Radio ChillMedicx”, how did you start it off? What was some of the reason you wanted to start a podcast show and who do you work with in your podcast?

DAR: From a beatboxer to that one guy who always shared new music around my peers, I knew deep inside that I had place within the radio industry, so with the times changing and having to learn that we do not need much complex equipment to create a podcast show. That very thought of being part of the radio industry revived and gave birth to Radio ChillMedicx. I work alone now.

12. What goes into a blend/curation on your podcast? What are some of the ideas that you have in mind before you record something?

DAR: It is never something planned, it happens naturally just like a Lego game, all the necessary blocks fall into place to create the most beautiful crafts that has ever been witnessed by the naked eye. In this case, I simply refer to what goes down when recording process takes place.

13. Have you encountered any challenges and if there has what are they and how have you resolved such complications?

DAR: In term of music is on music production, I am still curating some skills in production and there’s an ongoing process in fulfilling that gap.

 

14. Where do you see “Radio ChillMedicx” in the next five years? What type of change will we see as the underground community to it and the impact it will have on the scene?

DAR: Diversify digital podcast to more interactive and visual podcast. The change will come with time.

15. Any upcoming gigs/podcast specials or appearances on podcasts we should keep an eye out for?

DAR: Nothing for now.

16. The impact of C-19 has been felt all over the world, especially in the industry of music. How has it impacted you personally (if it has) and what ways can we use moving forward to counter such a heavy blow to the industry?

DAR: It has impacted positively; every business is now digitized, and 80 percent of working class is now working from home remotely. This has provided a better chance for people working while enjoying their favorite playlist and that on its own is an advantage.

17. In attempts to aid the underground community grow what are some the things you can add as suggestions to help strengthen the slowly emerging and the future offspring?

DAR: The young must stay informative, make a lot of reading, ensure that the negativity is neglected at all costs, and refer to the elders when unsure. In addition to that, not everyone is smart, so this means that elders must learn from the young ones as well. In closure, follow the laws of nature. 

18. Any other closing remarks?

DAR: I would like to thank you for this opportunity once again, hope to join again anytime in the future.

I also would like to send some major love and appreciation to these few companions; Zack The Dominant, Thuli Majozi, Makhosonke El Diego Mlotshwa, Thabang Seku, Simply Vincent Kheswa, Tebello Elixir Nkosi, Phumudzo Masithe, Len Thibedi, SoulChef, Motshabi Kgatitsoe, Selinah Seipei, Matebello Tshoari, Palesa Galeboe, Siyabonga Ngcobo, Mag’Oveni, Neoflox and July.

19. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your Meet Me Underground mix?

DAR: Well, this compilation is more like a transition spacecraft, and inspired by the saying; ‘This is a time, a period of transition in the human world and this interim is a sacred space where we are asked to reach out to those in need, to help those who are vulnerable, connect with older people and help each other as best we can. It is a time for putting our difference aside and realizing our sameness as human beings.’

My MMU mixtape symbolizes me as handing out marshmallows to the world, inducing exciting vibrations that surely assist one’ soul to reach greater affirmations.

 Download: 062 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By DaAncient Ryu

 

Meet Me Underground: Georges White (Marseille-France; Le Laboratoire Sonore/33 Tours-Minutes)

Establishing Connection…. Systems Are A Go!. Greetings to all been a while since we have appeared on your broadcasting waves. We have been undergoing some slight maintenance issues on our mothership but we back and even better and ready to explore the underground universe yet again. This month we travel to the quartile of electronics and sonics. “Le Laboratoire Sonore” they call it on this side of the universe. Amongst the oldest sources of vibrations in the underground universe having been more around for close too twenty years.  We come in peace seeking to find habitants of this wonderful place to meet one of the guardians of this realm whom they call Georges White as he shares his personal tale about times at the laboratory of sonics and his musical life.  Everyone meet Georges White.

 

1. Greetings and Welcome to Meet Me Underground, we are honored to have you please introduce yourself & tell us a little bit who you are?

GW:  I was born in the north east of France and I’ve been passionate about music and sound early in my youth, around 7 years old I think. At that time I was fascinated as many of us by my father’s vinyl’s collection and I started ‘digging’ in it secretly and discovered electronic music and groove throughout psychedelic 70’s rock of Pink Floyd and Tangerine Dream, synth pop of Depeche Mode and mostly many soul, disco and blues classics. All these different vibes gathered in the same place contributed to build up my own culture and taste in music. I was main focused on radio too (and it’s always my beloved media now). Stations like Maxximum, FG and later M40 or Couleur 3 helped to enlighten my thirsty knowledge. I didn’t understand it yet but dance music, in its many styles, rhythms and moods, will be my area and an huge part of my life. I began my personal collection of records, trying to link every one of them as a part of a story, make every artists and labels histories going together as by a secret red wire. I’ve always looked forward to new sounds and creations, especially through records, artworks, clubs and events, all creative and inspirational people whom I’ve met along the way, writing reviews too, all that we still called (and we should ever call it now) culture. I’m above all a musical lover, moved by his passion for music and arts, whatever the boundaries of styles, countries or times, where just simply ‘when it sounds good I play’. I’m living now with my love in Marseille, the second city of France on the Mediterranean south coast.

2. You play a wide range of music what does that trait highlight for you? And how can you enlighten someone to open up to different kinds of music then sticking to one genre?

GW:  I play many styles of music because I always listen to many styles of music. It’s an expansive process that enhances you every time to step out of your comfort zone, finding something you never knows before but surprisingly close to yourself, like meeting someone new. I’ve constantly considered music as a wide space to explore, as a deep extended family to discover where the same basic energies flow even if it’s by different ways. In dance music area it’s the groove, making people dancing and being together, overcoming every boundaries of styles, genres or races. It’s mainly political in its higher acceptation. I’ve learned and I learn even now in my life to understand difference, to be happy with it, and I always try to make place for exploration, mixing as often as possible grooves and souls from worldwide, spreading and sharing my taste for the musical voyage. Music has always seemed to me as universal. Nowadays too many dj’s and producers limit themselves to one genre, as a paranoiac fear to lose audience and fan base. It’s fucking incredible at a time when internet has taken so much place in our life and eased fully our access to all musical forms. That’s a selfish behaviour which drains ears and brains, putting ignorance and oneness singularity as the big thing. Music is completely the opposite: it brings love and happiness, makes you share your passion with others, however expanded or foreign it is, however different they are, however difficult it is sometime to cross walls or barriers. Sharing is the key. Diversity is the key.

3. “Le Laboratoire Sonore” is radio show you are a part of, please would you give us a rundown on how it started, who you work with, what does it mean and it’s solemn purpose?

GW:  The Laboratoire Sonore radio show was hosted by my friend Steve Sibra since 1999 at radio FM Plus in Montpellier, another city of the French south coast. In 2005 I joined the adventure and I made many free-focused reviews during twelve years. My aim was to review experimental sounds, acoustic variations in electronic music, independent and emerging artists and labels, and by the way make the listener discovering this hidden face of dance music. It was my very first regular show and a great experience. Steve gave me his trust since the beginning, helped me to be more relevant, more precise behind the mic and his culture (he is a producer and a musical lover too) has influenced me a lot. The show has ended in 2019, after twenty years of not-too-serious musical research.

4. Additionally you also connected to another radio show “33 Tours/Minutes” are the two ideally the same or is there a difference? & how has been working with these two helped you grow?

GW:  33 Tours/Minutes belongs more to my indie-rock side and the years I’ve lived in Nîmes, even if never too far from Montpellier. This show is mainly about indie-rock actuality but not too strictly. One of his host, Jeremy Brunet, brought an indie-dance direction to the show when the other member of the duo, Mathieu Simard, gave a rock and garage one, but always with a look on electronic independent scene. They were the two sides of a same coin and for me a gate to be part of them sometimes. In the early 90’s I listened to much electronic music as indie rock, especially from the shoegaze and post-rock scene. The parts accorded to instrumentals, to sound textures, in these styles reminded me a lot what electronic labels as Warp, R&S or Mute released at the same time. The opportunity to make reviews in this show was almost natural and a big chance to make discover new sounds as to discover ones myself. The only difference is that my reviews for the Laboratoire Sonore were more regular as in 33 Tours/Minutes. The both helped me really to grow musically and enlarge my sensitivity area and completed themselves very well. 

5. “Underground” is a term that is mostly associated with being rare/unique and unpopular. Given the chance to give your own personal definition of this term, how would you go about it?

GW:  Underground is for me a word from the past that must always find its place, its actuality in the present of each musical situation, adapt its binds with history and its strong political resonances. Underground is a word which can be warped and moved from its original meaning, used for many causes and reasons, even the worse. Everyone has his own definition of what it is, what it was or what it could be. It means firstly to me just being yourself, being as independent as possible and not compromising. It means coming from the ground too, that implies patience, hardworking and culture. It has to do with emerging and margin cultures and has a close relationship with social engagement. It’s not simply the opposite of mainstream and over ground; it’s above all a way of life.

6. Underground is a culture do you agree, each culture has its own teachings and guidelines. Do you think these cultural tendencies in music are good or they should be removed?

GW:  Underground is not an only one culture, it has been refracted with time in many different aspects and every cultural tendencies, even if they have the same point of origin, has something to say we have to learn about. Underground is not the only way to live music but consistently help to understand where it came from and where it’s going and we needs that. We utterly don’t have to remove that, just still make ourselves involute of that word and keep up further its story.

7. How do you feel about your contribution to it but beyond to the entire underground community. Do you feel that the scene is growing and what can we do to keep the music true and organic?

GW: To be honest I feel sometime as excited as desperate. I explain me with two examples: everybody now can produce a track quickly with not too many difficulties and emerging artists are often completely lost in the production process. Even if sounds can be amazing, sounding is another part of the production work that these artists don’t master it at all and we all know that’s the more expansive side of the process. Two cases: the label takes this charge or the artist himself and he has often no other choice or help for the mastering. And release his work without have a real chance to be played. It’s the same thing with the support system. Every labels and artists need and want to be supported locally or through social medias but no one takes a moment to support other independent artists or labels and much more to support in return medias and people who support them. This frustrating actual situation of this scene must change, and I hope the Covid-19 crisis helps us to open our eyes and our souls, as you say it very well to keep music true and organic, in one word alive.

8. Looking at the Marseille music scene how do you feel about it? & in which direction do you believe it’s growing?

GW:  Marseille is an incredible city, especially for the diversity of its musical scenes. There is a specific vibe and melting culture here, you can see it every day in the streets. Its situation as one of the main Mediterranean port helps to have an unique multicultural and cosmopolitan background, which brings this city ever dynamic on cultural and music point of view. Many talented artists and nice people live in this city, even if I don’t ignore how difficult it is for culture and artists in this crazy pandemic/dystopian time, I’m rather optimistic for the future of the local scene.

9. What are you listening to now? & can you some up a few releases that have recently stood out for you?

GW:  As you may probably know it, I listen to a lot of South African releases and mixes. It inspires me a lot. Some of my friend who runs a label (BLC recordings) has released and will release South African artists. It belongs to my everyday soundtrack and it’s a main influence. I listen to many ambient releases and some jazz joints from the Chicago based label International Anthem. Such a great label!! The Signal ST album on the Parisian Skylax label is currently in my playlists for weeks. The last Kaidi Tatham’s album is absolutely brilliant too. My tip actually is an huge deep techno various from a French independent label called Accents records. Impressive work and beautiful release, truly recommended.  But there are too much releases that I listened to in the last months to name but a few.

10. Thank you so much for joining us and we hope you have a blessed & successful year. Please tell us a bit about your mix?

GW:  This session was made in a way as a painting, with some old favs tracks, new ones that struck my ears recently, modulating each sonorities and vibes as a painter with his colours, favor deepness and warmth from the start to the end. I would especially add into this session a personal tribute to Sébastien Bromberger, a very nice person and talented Dj/label runner who lived in Marseille and who passed away last month, with two releases from his label Modulisme. May his legacy and his positive vibe live on! Rest in peace.

Download: 061 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By Georges White

Meet Me Underground: M Sipho May (Free-State; Underwater Exploration)

Welcome everyone to another tour around the underground universe. Starting off by commending and sending love to all those we met in the previous escapade, they truly made the year a memorable one. The music was truly up to and beyond par. This year it’s no different we seek new planets and habitats to share with you lovely realm followers. our Journey this year begins in the aquatic district of the universe a place we have vaguely seen across our radars but we are headed that way to a subtle & reserved fellow who is vanguard of the planet called “Underwater Exploration”. We are fortunate to get a chat with this man as he tells us all about himself and how his home world was formed. Everyone meet M Sipho May.

1. Greetings & Happy New Year. Welcome to Meet Me Underground please would you kindly introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about who you are and where you from?

MSM: My real name is Mbongo Sipho originally from the eastern Free-State, and I go by the name M Sipho May I’m a music lover and podcaster of Underwater Exploration a series podcast from South Africa.

2. “Underground” is a term to many refers to a movement of uniqueness, authenticity & rare. Though this term can be explained and be given many other definitions. What is your own personal definition?

MSM: Underground to me is a theory, the doctrine that the second person trinity assumed human form.

3. Taking from your previous answer, what are those standout qualities that make you underground?

MSM:  Damn! A crazy question, its uhm if I had to explain it I could say for me underground is where I can go and not be judged for being different.

4. Where does Sipho’s story begin? Did you discover music in your childhood hood days or did you find out about it much later in your life & who are some of your early influences to music?

MSM: My story, I’ve always loved music especially experimental sounds.

5. Being in music is hard, be it being a Collector/Spinner or Producer. What are some of the obstacles you had to tackle at first in your whole journey and how did you overcome some of those challenges?

MSM: Music is a journey on its own, I had many obstacles firstly I did not know any artists or record labels, Lol I wanted so hard to dig for music but in was in a hole of darkness I started asking from friends who played similar sounds I wants to play some did not respond and some rude but “Oscar Mokome” helped.

6. What are some of the things you have learnt in music which have somehow shaped the person you are in real life?

MSM: I am a very sad person and music has given me a platform to play what I want and never feel unwanted.

7. Do you have a preference when it comes to music or you listen to every type of music you can get your hands on? & reason for that is?

MSM: I listen to what makes me happy and when it comes to recording mixes I play Ambient, Dub techno and minimal music.

8. Beyond collecting/spinning & podcasting what other avenues have you gotten yourself into which are in relation to entertainment industry?

MSM: Blogging, I love minimal aesthetic look of fashion.

9. If it wasn’t for music you would be?

MSM: If it wasn’t for music I wouldn’t be alive.

10. Please share with us your Top 10 favorite Artists or Spinners (Local or International)?

MSM: Natur , flying cobra , Ocralab , Altone , Shinsuke Matsumoto , warmth , Oscar Mokome, jemil deep , fly district , dubbtone & tileff 

11. “Underwater Exploration” is your own personal movement. Please would you introduce it to us and tell us all about it?

MSM: “Underwater Exploration” is a collection of nightmares, thoughts and real life situations I have lived.

12. Running a podcast show comes with its own difficulties and challenges. What are some you have had to face since you have started and what are some key tips you would share in overcoming such challenges?

MSM: Finding your niche, what makes you different from others and play what you love.

13. What do you believe makes “Underwater Exploration” stand out from the rest?

MSM: Like I said before “Underwater Exploration” is not just a podcast but it’s a collection of my anxiety & depression.

14. Are there any other affiliations you have with other movements and so forth?

MSM: No.

15. 2021 just started what can we expect from you and your movement this year?

MSM: Underwater Exploration is still on season 3 and going forward and bringing more music even international guest mix.

16. Please share with us your Top 10 favorite music labels?

MSM: Cervidae Records, Kote Records, Natural Beat Recordings, Real Rhythm, Habla Music Limited.

17. One question we like to ask here at MMU is do you think “Underground” music in SA is appreciated enough and what are you doing to keep the underground alive?

MSM: Underground is still growing in South Africa yes it’s not that big but the few that like it love it for real , my podcast will keep underground music going.

18. Your thoughts on the entire SA music industry? If given the power to change somethings where would you started?

MSM: I would cancel the word celebrity and let music speak.

19. To all the people who want to be part of the arts like you, be it a collector/DJ or Producer what are some vital tips can you share with them for the beginning of the journey?

MSM: Be yourself, be in love with your sounds and never seek attention or status.  

20. Where can people get a hold of you? [Social Contacts]

MSM:

Facebook – https://m.facebook.com/cpho.iamimmortaltruk?ref_component=mbasic_home_bookmark&ref_page=%2Fwap%2Fhome.php&refid=7 

Underwater Exploration page – https://m.facebook.com/Underwater-Exploration-184185095709738/ 

21. Thank you for gracing us with your presence and being part of this New Years’ experience. Keep well & safe, please give us a walkthrough your mix?

MSM: By listening to this mix you’re literally coming into my life, feel my pain and thought coming alive.

 Download: 060 Meet Me Underground Guest Mix By M Sipho May