Jacob Manake is slowly but surely making a big name for himself in the entertainment industry.
Famously known as Jezla, Manake is a resident of Bekkersdal and is also the founder of Abushee DJ Academy which teaches people how to be DJs.
Speaking to the Randfontein Herald in an interview, Manake said his proudest moments in music were being able to perform at government functions, as well as private events among other places of entertainment.
This was when he was still part of a group called Three Channel – which has since parted ways, leading him to become the solo DJ that he is today. He said he developed his passion and love for music in primary school through his friend David Makeka also known as DJ Positive.
The two were inseparable and grew up listening to different genres of music such as Jazz, Kwaito, and house music.
While trying to make his mark in the industry, Manake recalled the difficult challenges he faced in terms of making his music a success, as he didn’t have the necessary equipment.
He said that be that as it may, he knew that he was destined for greatness and didn’t let that stand in his way.
He partnered with Tshepo Molefi and Lucky Mpati who had the correct equipment and taught him how to DJ. The trio later formed a group called 3 Channel and would perform together at different events.
“From being a DJ to an upcoming producer, I am thrilled to announce that I will be releasing my first project titled ‘Build upon EP’. It consists of four tracks that feature some of the hard-working producers in the deep house genre. I’m glad to have been working this hard to build a name for myself and I enjoy playing different music that gets people on their feet,” said Manake, who added that he also has his own clothing label called Dintshang wear.
He releases mix tapes regularly to showcase his love of music he has.
According to him, he has made mix tapes for some of the most formidable deep house music shows, which include the Mr Skink podcast show as well as Motswedeng FM, where he won a mix tape battle in July last year.
