Bulawayo’s masked DJ Tino basks in glory

A celebration party has been organised for DJ Tino (real name Spencer Chirinda), who secured secondplace in the Carling Black Label DJ Clash national finals held in Harare last year. He was also the Bulawayo provincial winner.

Chronicle Showbiz caught up with the Bulawayo-based DJ, who has been in the industry since 2016 when he was still in high school.

DJ Tino shared that his passion for music led him to become a DJ.

“Music inspired my love for the decks. I used to be a big-time music collector, sharing and downloading music on memory cards, flash disks and CDs. Some might argue that it was piracy but I always aimed to make genuine purchases,” he said.

To refine his craft, he engaged in extensive research and daily practice, adding that he does not specialise in a specific genre.

“To improve my skills, I researched, listened to other DJs and relied on a good ear for music. Rehearsing day and night has helped me perfect the craft. I consider myself an open-format DJ, meaning I don’t limit myself to one genre. I enjoy challenges and in my opinion, sticking to one genre limits creativity,” he said.

DJ Tino said securing first place in the Carling Black Label DJ Clash provincial finals and second place in the competition’s national finals, has motivated him to keep pushing forward.

“I never imagined reaching such a milestone in my career. Coming second in the Carling Black Label DJ Clash national finals took countless hours of rehearsals, creativity and passion. This win, I hope will open doors for me in the industry,” he said.

DJ Tino added that the win was a validation of his hard work.

“I’m excited about the future and plan to use this momentum to reach even greater heights. I believe this is just the beginning.”

DJ Tino is unique in that he performs donning a mask, something he says is part of his identity. Interestingly, he started wearing a mask to cover his face since he was not allowed to stage private gigs by the person he worked for.

“Initially, I wore a mask because I wasn’t allowed to do private gigs by the guy I was signed to. Then, eventually, it became my style as it was unique to the craft.”

This, however, has its own challenges as he sometimes has a torrid time with security personnel.

“Because I wear a mask, there are many stereotypes associated with it, particularly from security personnel who perceive me differently. But that’s my brand, and I’m working to grow it.”

Despite his talent, DJ Tino revealed that he struggles to secure bookings and mostly performs at home.

“I usually perform in my bedroom since I don’t have a residency anywhere. Since the last clash, I’ve received some inquiries but no bookings yet. The biggest challenge I face is that people often misinterpret my style of play. Many are not familiar with the extremely creative side of DJing, so not everyone understands it.

“Another challenge is getting my name out there, especially with my day job. It’s hard to sustain myself with just one source of income.”

DJ Tino acknowledged that while DJing has its struggles, it has also allowed him to connect with new people.

“One of the best benefits of being a DJ is the creative freedom. There are no limits to how creative you can be and it helps me express myself. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet many people, including fans, promoters and musicians.

“However, there are downsides too. The industry is highly competitive, exhausting and can be isolating.

Rejection from nightclubs and promoters, financial instability and the expectation to play for free under the guise of ‘exposure’ makes it hard to survive solely on DJing. Working multiple jobs and getting little rest is draining and fatigue has become a familiar companion.”

DJ Tino said his unique creativity, manipulation of music through wordplay and tone play sets him apart from other DJs.

Dubbed the Champion party, DJ Tino’s celebration will be held in Bulawayo today.