Tsakani – Sechaba ‘Djy Nhlakzin’ Motloung (20) is a vibrant DJ and producer from Tsakani who is making waves in the music scene. He started producing music at the age of 17.
Sechaba said growing up in Tsakani influenced his love for music, saying the area is rich in culture and diversity.
“It is a place with a very rich, albeit difficult, history, and is the foundation of my storytelling. I became an artist because I had to get my feelings out. Growing up, I was very quiet, and music was the only way I could communicate,” he explained.
Sechaba plays amapiano. He gathered inspiration for the genre from his brother who is also a DJ and music producer. He explained that his brother’s studio sessions were beyond inspiring as he would often get invited to sit in.
“I witnessed the process of making music and I fell in love with it. I loved witnessing how an amazing beat or pick-up line could elevate the mood in a room. That proved to me that music has the power to heal and uplift,” he added.
He expressed that his mother was a domestic worker who usually got home late and exhausted.
Sechaba Motloung produces good music. Photo: Sechaba Motloung
“But when she put on Brenda Fassie, she would dance. In that moment, the heaviness in the room would lift, even if just for a while. I wanted to create that same kind of healing and joy, the kind that does not ignore the pain, but softens it,” he cited.
“My idea has been to create the kind of music that lets people breathe again, that reminds them they are still alive, still hopeful, still able to move.”
At 17, he joined a team under Young Press Entertainment where he learned how to make beats. Sechaba has acquired experience along the way.
He has worked with a few rising amapiano producers in Duduza, like Deep Q music. He aspires to work with Kabza De Small because of his magical sound.
“His sound is magical and gives a soulful edge to top-tier amapiano production. I look up to Kabza De Small for his incredible sounds and keys,” he said.
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He recently released a mix titled For Matured Ears Only. He is currently working on a single which is still in the pipeline.
“I am also working on a EP titled Movement which tells a story based on how I move and grow. I am planning a collaborative live session recording at Young Press Entertainment in Johannesburg.
“My mission is to create timeless and honest music that heals. Many people my age are struggling with identity, loss, and the pressures of social media.
“My music is meant to be a safe space, a sanctuary to feel and to breathe. It has taught me discipline and self-love,” added Sechaba.
Sechaba cited that being an independent artist means doing your own marketing, booking, and writing.
“It forced me to stop being shy and to stand up for my vision. I advise aspiring artists to just start and the rest will fall into place,” he concluded.
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