Our latest feature spotlights DJ Punch SA, a seasoned house DJ from Dobsonville, Soweto. Known for his deep, soulful sound blending late-night, classic, and Afro-house vibes, he's held residency on Jozi FM and regularly performs at Soweto hotspots like RoadHouse Pub & Grill and Rockerfella. We sat down with him to talk about the scene and what else he's been up to beyond the music.

Muzi: Let's talk about your journey in the music scene, how did it all start?

DJ Punch: My journey into the DJ scene kicked off because of my passion for music. I loved discovering new tracks, exploring different software, and putting together compilations with friends. Eventually, I decided to take the plunge and buy my first turntable, and I asked a DJ friend to show me the ropes. Then, in 2009, I entered a DJ competition on Jozi FM and walked away with the win — and that's really where everything took off. From that point on, I started booking more and more gigs and never looked back.

Muzi: How's the journey been like so far?

DJ Punch: The journey has been incredible, full of highs and lows, and honestly, that's what shapes us and helps us grow. I'm thankful for all of it. On top of that, I balance a corporate career and DJing, and I've managed to find that sweet spot where both worlds work together perfectly.

MUZI: The DJ scene is super competitive with new talent constantly emerging — so what keeps you evolving and sets you apart?

DJ Punch: Professionalism and punctuality have kept me relevant in the scene — bookers love working with someone they can count on. But what really sets me apart is the way I craft my sets. From the first track to the last, I'm telling a story, taking the audience on a journey they won't forget.

DJ Punch: Beyond my corporate career and DJing gigs, I'm also working on something that's truly close to my heart — Hoodelicious (Good Food from the Hood). It's all about shining a spotlight on the hidden culinary gems you can find right in the hood. We bring you the best of the Kasi food experience, hitting up all the local hangout spots and sharing everything that makes them special.

Muzi:Apart from your corporate career and DJ gigs, what else are you working on?

DJ Punch: Showcasing local talent matters for so many reasons. It keeps regional culture and heritage alive, brings in tourism dollars that support local businesses, and gives diverse voices a platform that builds community pride. Plus, when kids see their hometown invest in homegrown creators, it inspires them to chase their own dreams.

Muzi: What does black excellence mean to you?

DJ Punch: Black excellence is more than just a phrase — it's a powerful idea that celebrates the incredible achievements, deep cultural pride, and remarkable resilience shown by Black individuals and communities every single day.

Muzi: Finally, what's next for DJ Punch?

The future is looking really promising right now — and honestly, the sky's the limit. Keep your eyes open, because there are some great things coming my way, along with some exciting projects down the line that I'm not quite ready to reveal just yet. Stay tuned!