Shamiso: Unreal Wave 

How do you interpret the concept of Unreal Movement in the context of Afro Tech and Afro House?

In terms of music, I would describe unreal movement as rhythm, energy, and the atmosphere created when you’re behind the decks. It could also refer to the techniques I use while DJing. I keep things fairly simple—I don’t rely heavily on looping or effects—but for me, unreal movement is about how the music is meant to make you feel. Ultimately, music is movement, and what makes it unreal can be subjective, depending on where you are and the space you’re in.

I think it’s also about flow—the way the music connects, the vibe, the energy, and the atmosphere it creates. It’s about where the music takes you. That’s how I would describe it.

In what ways are you pushing boundaries to redefine how African Electronic Music is experienced globally?

I’d say I stay true to myself by authentically embracing who I am in everything I do—right down to how I dress. When I first started, I was often told to keep my style simple, but fashion plays a huge role in how I present myself. The way I look is just as important as the music I play because it shapes how I want to be experienced.

I consider myself more of a crowd educator than a crowd pleaser. When curating my sets, I focus on selecting music that I truly believe people will enjoy, rather than just playing whatever is trendy to secure bookings or make my set more appealing on the surface. I genuinely believe that South Africa has an audience that seeks out events for the experience of discovering music, not just hearing what they already know.

It’s essential to tap into that aspect of DJing—not just as a curator but as an educator—introducing people to a new side of Afro-House as I see it. Staying true to my sound means not simply playing what pleases the crowd but instead offering them something deeper and more meaningful. That’s how I remain authentic to myself and my artistry as a DJ.