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Trust Khosa
South Africa-based disc jockey, Redgis “DJ Gonzo” Viriri, says that Star FM has opened new doors for him, making his brand more recognisable.
After years in the industry, Viriri made a notable appearance on Star FM’s Afterdrive show, hosted by DJ Babongile Skonjwa, in October, and since then, his career has taken off.
In an interview with The Herald Arts, Viriri expressed his desire to gain recognition in Zimbabwe, akin to the acclaim he receives in South Africa.
“I have longed to be known in Zimbabwe, patiently waiting for my time to shine and be counted among the stars,” he said.
“In October, I returned home and was hosted on Star FM by Babongile, and now many people are reaching out to me for my services.
“Since that interview, I have secured several bookings, and it’s a blessing to be endorsed by my people.”
With a passion for supporting upcoming artists, Viriri is committed to using his influence to empower them.
“As for my resolutions this year, I plan to bring emerging artistes to South Africa, starting with Superman (Pfira Dandy) and Shona Boy, among others,” he said.
“I will also be touring North America this year with fellow well-known DJs.
“My vision is to create music without borders, uniting nations through song and dance. I envision collaborations between established artists and rising talents.”
Unlike many artists who struggle in the diaspora, Viriri feels embraced in his adopted home.
“Being a DJ in South Africa has been easy for me because I receive a lot of love from both South Africans and Zimbabweans here.
“My ability to blend amapiano with Zimbabwean tracks has been well-received. I have lived in South Africa for 27 years now and consider it my home away from home,” he remarked.
Regarding his stage name, DJ Gonzo, Viriri explained, “I received the name from a fan back in the 90s. The way I mix music is like being a chef; hence, ‘Gonzo’ reflects that I’m a ‘ndishef’ (I’m a chef).”
Viriri also shared some of his proudest moments in South Africa:
“I have played alongside Oskido at Raz Mataz, a club formerly owned by Tich Mataz,” he said.
“I have hosted numerous talent shows in both Zimbabwe and South Africa and collaborated with artists like Doc Shebeleza, Otis Fraser, Dereck Beats, and many more.
“What sets me apart from other local DJs is my unique style of blending different genres on one beat and combining old classics with modern sounds.”
Viriri began his career in 1996 in BeitBridge as a member of the DJ group Klub Kamato, sharing the decks with Otis Fraser and Dereck Beats in Bulawayo and Harare.
He relocated to South Africa in 1998, where he has established his base.
Online Reporter