This week we chat with talented, master of the decks Mandla Gxumisa, popularly known as Blackman, about his journey as one of East London’s most popular DJs and his mission of passing on the skill to aspiring musos with his masterclasses.
Q: How did your journey as a DJ begin, and what attracted you to this profession?
A: I grew up in a musical family. My father was a gospel musician with a home studio filled with instruments. As a child, I would watch him rehearse and often play the piano when he wasn’t around. By age 14, I was producing my own amateur songs. At 16, my father recognised my potential and encouraged me to try DJing with a computer he bought for me. My professional DJ career began in 2006. I sought opportunities at parties and local clubs, but I felt that formal education would help me improve. In 2012, I enrolled at the Soul Candi Institute of Music, where I studied professional music production. I later became a lecturer at Boston College for five years, starting in 2013.
Q: What challenges have you faced breaking into the DJ industry, and how did you overcome them?
A: Gaining recognition as a DJ was challenging. I overcame these obstacles through strategic networking, participating in local events, and dedicating countless hours to refining my skills, which helped me carve out my niche.
Q: What is your creative process when preparing a set? How do you choose tracks to keep the crowd engaged?
A: I begin by familiarising myself with the venue and audience. I prepare a diverse mix of tracks, blending popular hits with unique selections to maintain energy and engage the crowd.
Q: Is there a specific music genre you enjoy mixing the most? Why?
A: While I’ve played various genres, I particularly love hip-hop and R&B for their versatility. These genres allow me to connect with different audiences and unleash my creativity, leading to captivating performances.
Q: How do you keep your performances fresh for diverse audiences?
A: Flexibility is key during my sets. I pay close attention to the crowd’s energy, whether it’s high or low, and make real-time adjustments to fully express myself and enhance the experience.
Q: Can you highlight a standout event or gig in your career?
A: Many events have been memorable, but a few that stand out include Berlin November, the London Roots Festival, and the Ebubeleni Music Festival. Sharing the stage with industry icons at these events has significantly impacted my career.
Q: What direction do you see the DJ industry taking with digital advancements?
A: Digital technology has transformed the DJ landscape, making it more accessible for newcomers. The user-friendly equipment available today contrasts sharply with what we had when I started.
Q: What inspired you to lead DJ masterclasses, and who are they for?
A: I have a strong desire to share my passion with the next generation of DJs, which led me to create DJ masterclasses. These classes cater to all levels, from beginners to those seeking to refine their craft.
Q: What key skills or techniques do you focus on during these masterclasses?
A: In my masterclasses, I cover essential skills for becoming a professional DJ, such as mixing techniques, track selection, crowd engagement, and set preparation. I also emphasise the importance of building one’s brand in today’s competitive landscape.
Q: Which skills do you think DJs need to develop most for success?
A: Versatility is crucial. A successful DJ must have a good musical ear, the ability to read the crowd and maintain professionalism. Long-term success often hinges on effective networking.
Q: How do you adapt your lessons for individuals with varying experience levels?
A: Drawing from my experience at the Soul Candi Institute of Music, I tailor lessons based on each student’s background and goals, ensuring the content is relevant and valuable. This approach fosters growth, regardless of where they start.
Q: Can you share some success stories of students from your classes?
A: I’m proud to say many of my students have successfully entered the local club scene and excellently execute what I have taught them which makes them unique. I have taught 10 students so far and five of them are making it big. Watching them grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding.
Q: What is the role of formal DJ training compared to self-taught skills?
A: While self-taught skills are valuable, formal training provides a solid foundation that accelerates the learning process. It offers insights and techniques from industry professionals that can take longer to acquire independently.
Q: How do you integrate new trends and technologies into your teaching?
A: I stay updated on industry trends and incorporate new technologies into my teaching, ensuring my students are prepared to use the tools they’ll encounter in their careers.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring DJs looking to join a masterclass?
A: I encourage aspiring DJs to be open-minded and committed to learning. Dedication and practice will elevate your skills and help you connect with others in the music business.
Q: Where can readers find you?
A: You can follow my progress on Instagram: @Blackman_Muzik, TikTok: @Blackman_sa, and Facebook: Blackman or visit us at 33 Church Street at the Cortex Film Hub in East London.