Sumthin Brown

Bonolo Mafoyane, professionally known as Sumthin Brown, is a Pretoria-based DJ, writer, and events promoter recognised for her dynamic presence within South Africa’s music and cultural landscape.

Career & Performances

She has performed at major festivals across the country, including OppiKoppi, Smoking Dragon Festival, and the Joburg Street Food Festival. Her reach extends beyond South Africa, with performances in Botswana and the Eswatini, where she has built strong professional relationships within the regional music industry.

Artistry & Practice

Sumthin Brown’s work spans multiple roles within the music ecosystem, including DJing, archiving, cultural commentary, and event curation. She is known for hosting an annual 10-hour marathon DJ set, a testament to both her endurance and deep musical knowledge.

She is also the founder of the Disco Cheese Funk Party series, a platform that celebrates eclectic sounds and community-driven dancefloor culture.

Advocacy & Cultural Impact

Her work is grounded in a clear set of values, including actively challenging gatekeeping and exclusionary practices within the industry. She is a strong advocate for fair and equal treatment of women artists, both on and off stage.

Collective Work

Sumthin Brown is a co-founder and member of Femme Kollektive Experiment, an all-women DJ collective established in 2017. The collective brings together selectors, collectors, and DJs, creating space for women to thrive and be represented within the scene.