Apple Music has released this month’s Africa Now DJ Mix featuring South African DJ, producer and entrepreneur, Oskido (real name Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa), a local legend who has helped shape the country’s urban music scene for over 25 years.
“Africa has a rich cultural heritage that has given rise to diverse music genres, especially Afrobeats and Amapiano, which have taken the world by storm,” he tells Apple Music. “I selected these songs based on what’s happening in the streets of Africa and how they’re resonating globally. These tracks connect deeply with me because of their authentic African melodies, which hit home and speak directly to my heart.”
Co-founding the iconic Kalawa Jazmee Records alongside Christos Katsaitis and Don Laka, Oskido helped to define the sound that accompanied South Africa’s cultural shift post-apartheid and is widely considered to be a pioneer of all things related to Kwaito and its cultural scope.
With a keen eye for talent, Oskido has been instrumental in the rise of South Africa’s biggest artists, including Mafikizolo, Bongo Maffin, Black Coffee, DJ Zinhle, Black Motion and DJ Maphorisa. His cultural influence extends across Kwaito to include House, Afropop, and Amapiano. Having recently completed an American tour alongside Amapiano giants, Scorpion Kings, Oskido is set to perform at the lauded Afro Nation in Portugal in 2025.
“This mix is versatile—you can play it anywhere, and it fits any mood. It’s guaranteed to uplift your spirit as it takes you on a musical journey through Africa, full of energy and soulful rhythms,” he tells Apple Music. “This mix is a tribute to the heartbeat of Africa blending Afrobeats, Amapiano and Afro-House to create a sonic journey that moves the body and the soul, connecting listeners to the rhythm of the continent.”
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