DJ Oskido Biography

DJ Oskido is a South African musician, producer and entrepreneur who is one of the pioneers of kwaito and afro-house genres. He is also the founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, one of Africa’s leading independent record labels.

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Early Life and Education

DJ Oskido, born Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa, arrived in this world on 23 November 1967 in Oukasie township, near Brits, South Africa. His roots are deeply connected to a Zimbabwean politician, Esaph Mdlongwa, his father, and a South African mother named Emily Sophia Molefi.

Oskido spent most of his formative years in Luveve Township, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. He completed his basic education at Gifford High School before returning to South Africa at the age of 21 in 1988. Upon his return, he initially managed a family business in Lethlabile, Brits, before embarking on his musical journey in Johannesburg.

DJ Oskido Music Career

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Collaborating with fellow producers Don Laka and Christos Katsaitis, DJ Oskido co-founded Kalawa Records in 1993. They unveiled their first compilation album under the moniker Brothers of Peace (BOP). Following Katsaitis’ departure, the label evolved into Kalawa Jazmee Records in 1995. DJ Oskido’s impressive repertoire includes collaborations with renowned artists like Bongo Maffin, Boom Shaka, Mafikizolo, Busiswa, Black Motion, and more. He’s also a prominent radio DJ on Metro FM.

DJ Oskido’s Influence

DJ Oskido is a pioneer in the kwaito genre, a fusion of house music and African sounds. His contributions extend to the rise of Afro-house and amapiano genres, beloved house music forms in South Africa and beyond. Notable albums in his discography include Project A (1998), Zabalaza (2000), I Believe (2013), and Akhiwe (2019). Memorable tracks such as Makwerekwere (1998), Woza Nana (2013), AmaGrootmaan (2016), and Ma Dlamini (2019) showcase his musical brilliance.

Awards and Recognition

DJ Oskido has garnered numerous accolades for his indelible mark on the South African music scene, including:

• Best Remix of the Year for Professor ft. Oskido & Charactor – Finger Prints at the 2012 South African Music Awards (SAMA)
• Best Dance Album for I Believe at the 2014 SAMA
• Best Collaboration for AmaGrootmaan at the 2017 SAMA
• Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Dance Music Awards South Africa (DMASA)
• Best Male Artist – Southern Africa at the 2019 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA)

Business Ventures

DJ Oskido is not only a musical virtuoso but also a shrewd entrepreneur with diverse business interests, including:

• Kalawa Jazmee Records: A trailblazing independent record label that has nurtured top acts like Bongo Maffin, Mafikizolo, and many more.
• Oskido’s Airbnb Business: Offering luxurious accommodation in Sandton, Gauteng, available for guests to enjoy a host of amenities.
• Daruma by Oskido: A Japanese restaurant located at Waterfall Corner in Midrand, showcasing DJ Oskido’s culinary passion.
• DJU (deejays unite): A collective of leading South African deejays, musicians and media professionals known for organizing events and inspiring aspiring musicians.

Personal Life

DJ Oskido is married to Mathapelo Mdlongwa and is the proud father of six children: Bass Mdlongwa, Naledi Mdlongwa, Akhona Mdlongwa, Oscarine Mdlongwa, Apple Mdlongwa, and Ziyanda Mdlongwa. He openly shares his family moments on social media. Additionally, he is a devoted Christian, placing his faith in God’s grace and mercy.