Miss Pru on being one of SA’s leading female DJs

Born Prudence Sebalo, Miss Pru is quickly gaining recognition as one of South Africa’s leading female DJs. But Miss Pru started off on Radio Rhythm 100 as the host of her Saturday show called The Sound Evolution. This experience gave her a taste for the radio business, and she joined TransAfrica Radio, where she co-hosted House of SHE with DJ Zinhle.

She is currently part of the CliffCentral team hosting Rookies and Rockstars every Wednesday. After releasing her first single Welele last year, 2016 is lining up to be a big year for the DJ. But she’s also doing her bit to help other women break into the industry. Miss Pru is heavily involved with Fuse Academy, which aims to introduce newly qualified female DJs into the industry.

Miss Pru was selected to be a part of this female empowerment concept where she collaborated with DJ Zinhle, playing as a duo at events around the country. This was the opportunity for Miss Pru to showcase her talents and meet the who’s who of the industry. Now she’s helping to pass the torch on the initiative. The karma points are clearly paying off.

She’s performed alongside industry giants like Louis Vega, Josh Milan, Anane, Oskido, Vinny Da Vinci, DJ Fresh, Euphonik, Black Coffee and Christos. She has also been invited to showcase her skills at events like the Southern African Music Conference, Dance Ritual, Vaal Beach Festival and Wits Fresher’s Bash. Most recently she attended the World Music Conference in Miami, where she also performed.

How did you get involved at Fuse Academy?

Fuse Academy is where I learned how to DJ. Before I joined Fuse Academy I had just left my stable job to follow my dream of being a DJ. I went to Fuse asking for a job, and in exchange they taught me how to DJ. Luckily at the time they needed a receptionist so I became a receptionist while learning how to DJ. Later I became a lecturer at the school.

What are the challenges faced by female DJs?

We always have to work 10 times harder to prove that we are as good as anyone in the game. We are lucky that Cndo and DJ Zinhle broke through for us. It made it easier to be received by the industry.

More and more female DJs are emerging from unexpected places such as Thando Thabethe. Why do you think this is happening?

There are a lot of female DJs out there and a whole lot more women that love the art of DJing. It’s now the norm to have a female DJ big line-ups and it’s easier for more women to come out.

Tell me about your radio work and what do you love about it?

I did a radio course at On Cue Communications. I then co-hosted a show on TransAfrica. The radio bug bit me hard. I love communicating, I love the rush of being on air.

In terms of radio, do you have any mentors?

Yes, I do I speak to Greg Maloka and Oskido every now and then. It helps a lot.

What projects do you have lined up for 2016?

I’ve just released my first single last year called Welele, and I’m working towards releasing more singles this year – and working with different vocalists.

Do you have any tips for aspiring DJs?

Focus on your craft. Learning a lot about branding yourself and marketing a brand. If you’re in school, finish school. It will help you in the long run.