DJY Spetla: Beats, business, and legacy

Phiri was born in August 1993 and raised in Palmridge, Katlehong. After the death of his mother when he was 12, he was brought up by his grandmother, who introduced him to church. He said this environment played a formative role in shaping both his values and his musical interests. “My grandmother introduced me to church, and that’s where everything started,” he said. “I joined the band and the choir and started learning instruments.”

His early exposure to music later developed into a professional pursuit. Phiri studied sound engineering at City Varsity, where he expanded his skills beyond DJing into music production. He went on to establish Shukushukuma Entertainment, a record label that initially operated with limited resources, including a basic sound system, while focusing on event hosting, audience development and music releases.

Phiri said his professional growth has been driven by ongoing learning. “I’ve changed a lot,” he said. “Music taught me a lot and I’ve honestly grown by attending music workshops and business workshops.”

In addition to his music career, Phiri runs Spetla’s Eatery, a township-based restaurant, and is currently studying a leadership course at Optimum Learning and Technologies. He said balancing multiple roles requires structure and support. “There’s a lot that I’m doing, but I do it well by learning how to balance,” he said. “There are people who help me keep everything going.”

He views versatility as central to his career approach. “It depends on who you are as a person,” he said. “For me, being versatile is important. I don’t like staying in one place. I like to learn and develop skills, even outside music.”

Community engagement remains a core element of his work. Phiri said music has enabled him to build connections within township communities. “Community is very important,” he said. “Music helps me connect with people because people love music.” Through school events and donation drives, he and his team support local initiatives, including the donation of toiletries and the creation of platforms for young people interested in music.

Reflecting on the entertainment industry, Phiri described it as challenging and competitive. “The industry is not easy,” he said. “You have to be mentally tough.” He advised emerging artists to prioritise education and industry knowledge. “Some people only know how to sing, but not how the industry works, and that’s how they get taken advantage of,” he said.

He also drew a distinction between fame and long-term purpose. “Some people push fame, others push vision,” he said. “Fame is short-lived. Vision has goals.” He added that many peers who entered the industry alongside him left after pursuing short-term recognition rather than sustainable careers.

Phiri cited artists such as Kabza De Small as sources of inspiration, particularly for their ability to operate at scale while maintaining artistic focus. He said recognition for his own work, including awards, has come through consistency and proactive engagement. “Sometimes you think no one is watching, but they are,” he said, noting the importance of research, promotion and audience support.

Looking ahead, Phiri is focused on expanding his music academy, which has been operating for more than five years and has trained over 20 DJs. His plans include securing funding, establishing a permanent township-based facility and formalising accreditation. “We teach both practical and theory,” he said. “After a course is completed, students receive certificates, networking opportunities and guidance on their next steps.”

Phiri said his long-term aim is to build a sustainable legacy that combines music, entrepreneurship and community development.