PROFILE: DJ Lali talks about his failures in the music industry, raising his son and acting
ALEX - Determination drives this DJ.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2018/05/DjLali_25809_tn.jpg)
Growing up in Botshabelo, one of the largest townships in the Free State, with scarce resources did not stop DJ Lali, also known as Black Muzic whose real name is Lali Pono, from pursuing his dream of becoming a DJ.
He started working toward achieving his dream the moment he arrived in Johannesburg in 2006. Now father to a 10-year-old son, he lives in Alexandra in 6th avenue.
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The DJ explained that he had hoped for a breakthrough in the music industry as soon as he arrived in Joburg, which turned out to be a miscalculation. “When I arrived in Joburg in 2006 I did my first song with the hope that it would get onto the airwaves but failed dismally. I failed to rise above the challenges and pressure of the industry. I thought the little knowledge I had was enough to take me to the next level,” said Lali.
Due to pressure to make ends meets and to support his son, Lali joined a casting agency in 2010 and landed roles as an extra in different soapies like Rhythm City, Isidingo and Muvhango. After realising that he was moving back and fro without any breakthrough in the acting industry, Lali decided to return to his first love.
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He has just released his single with two tracks Amaphupho (Dreams) and Raining. He teamed up with well-known actor and music producer Sphiwe Mtshali and local vocalist Nompilo and it is getting a lot of downloads.
“For my recent single, I worked with two amazing and talented individuals, Sphiwe and the young and energetic lady, Nompilo, who contributed so much to the success of this project. Amaphupho and Raining have received more than 10 000 downloads since their release,” he said.
Lali is working on his new track with Lady OZ from Alexandra which will be released later this year.
If you would like to book him for a gig, call 063 110 3885.