The Dundee July recently brought a wave of talented entertainers and artists from all over South Africa to our small town. With different marquees bringing in artists ranging from local designers and DJs to well-known brands in the music and fashion industry this prestigious event opened up opportunities to mingle with the big guns. Amongst the many overtly talented guests we caught up with TheJoshDJ who had the people on their feet anddancing within minutes of his set at the ImpiloBigTym marquee.
“TheJosh is a talented DJ and a pleasure to work with as a person” said MelusiNdima owner of the popular ImpiloBigTym marquee.
The Josh is a multi-talented DJ and record label owner from Pretoria that specializes in mixing house, Hip Hop and Kwaito flawlesslyand caters for all types of events and occasions. The Josh is a brand that aims to make everyone on the dance floor happy has played in and around SA and is famously known for the music video show on SABC 1 “The After Party”.
THE JOSH has an impressive resume of venues he has played in and artists he has worked with like Euphonik and Shota. He has played in venues like the Presidential Guest House, in and around Pretoria mainly Hatfield, Kong and Icon in Sandton, ChafPozi and Panyaza in Soweto, Boulevard on Florida Road, Botswana, H2O festival and many many more.
TheJoshDJa.k.a Joshua Claassens is 30 years old, currently lives in Pretoria and is an only child.
Youth Revolution caught up with the talented DJ for a one-on-one session and this is what he had to say:
YR: Tell us who the TheJoshDJ is in one sentence.
TheJoshDJ: TheJoshDJ is an entertainer of the masses aiming to make you dance
YR: When did you start deejaying?
TheJoshDJ: Professionally in 2006 but actually in primary school.
YR: What does music/deejaying mean to you?
TheJoshDJ: It means the world. It’s my passion and there’s nothing better than living your passion.
YR: Favourite gigs and place you’ve travelled so far?
TheJoshDJ: I don’t really have a favourite. I enjoy everywhere I play. Each town and country gives me its own different and unique experience.
YR: What was your experience like playing for ImpiloBigtym marquee in the Dundee July?
TheJoshDJ: In one word: “FUN”. What an amazing concept and the people I met were some of the best I’ve met in SA.
YR: Was it your first time visiting Dundee and what did you think of the town?
TheJoshDJ: It was my 1st time visiting. Didn’t really get to experience the life and culture because of too much travelling but It was beautiful the little I was able to see.
YR: Did you have a chance to work with or meet some of our local artists?
TheJoshDJ: Yes I got to meet some DJs and promoters. All friendly and professional.
YR: What has the reaction been like on and off the stage?
TheJoshDJ: Both have been very positive. Definitely an experience worth reliving.
YR: Who is your favourite local and international DJ?
TheJoshDJ: My favourite local DJ is Fresh. His albums got me into House. My favourite international DJ is Deadmau5.
YR: What are you passionate about?
TheJoshDJ: Meeting new people and travelling. I get to do both in my line of work so I’m very blessed in that regard.
YR: What are your hobbies?
THEJOSHDJ: My hobbies are video games, football and comic books.
YR: Who would you like to work with?
TheJoshDJ: I’m already working who I wanted to but that is very undercover look for big things in the future.
YR: Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
TheJoshDJ: Travelling the world through music.
YR: If you were not in the music industry, what would you be doing with your life?
TheJoshDJ: I would either be a lawyer or a pastor. I have a LLB degree and a theology diploma.
YR: Tell us a little more about other business adventures you are involved in.
TheJoshDJ: I’ve opened a record label. You can check it out here:
https://www.1stjhbmusic.co.za/
YR: Some advice for aspiring DJs
TheJoshDJ: Get a degree. This is one of the hardest businesses to be successful in. Don’t be scared of hard work.
YR: And finally, with such a great reception from Dundee, would you consider coming back?
TheJoshDJ: Without a doubt. Anytime!!!
Follow and Like TheJosh:
Twitter: @Thejoshdj
Facebook : The Josh