In the vibrant realm of electronic music, one artist stands out, captivating audiences with their unique sound and undeniable talent. Meet !Sooks, an electronic music artist hailing from the kingdom of eSwatini (Swaziland) whose musical journey has propelled him to the forefront of Southern Africa’s electronic music scene. With a real name of Sukoluhle Dlamini, his journey began at an early age when he became captivated by the mesmerizing fusion of African music and the art of synth sound creation.
!Sooks has emerged as a true phenomenon, weaving a sonic tapestry that effortlessly blends the soulful rhythms of Africa with the pulsating beats of electronic music. His captivating ability to seamlessly blend genres has earned him a reputation as one of the region’s leading electronic music stars.
Drawing inspiration from his Swazi heritage, !Sooks infuses his music with a rich cultural tapestry, paying homage to his roots while pushing the boundaries of electronic music. His innovative approach manifests in a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.
!Sooks is known for his electrifying live performances, where he effortlessly commands the stage, connecting with his audience on a profound level. Whether it’s an intimate underground club or a sprawling festival stage, !Sooks’ magnetic energy and infectious enthusiasm never fail to ignite the crowd, leaving them craving for more.
As an artist, !Sooks embodies the true spirit of exploration and artistic expression. His relentless passion for pushing boundaries and discovering new sonic landscapes has garnered him recognition not only within Southern Africa but also on a global scale. With an ever-growing discography and collaborations with esteemed artists, !Sooks continues to leave an indelible mark on the electronic music community.
Join us on a sonic adventure as we delve into the world of !Sooks, a visionary artist who seamlessly blends cultures, genres, and emotions through his enchanting melodies. Get ready to be transported to a realm where the rhythmic heartbeat of Africa merges with the boundless possibilities of electronic music. Welcome to the entrancing world of Sooks, where the power of sound knows no boundaries.
Morning Vibes:
!Sooks begin their day with a ritual of inspiration. A student at the Academy of Sound Engineering, sharpening his craft with dedication and enthusiasm. It’s not just about studying; it’s about immersing oneself in the world of music, exploring new sounds, and pushing boundaries.
The Birth of a Dream:
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Mbabane, Swaziland, !Sooks’ journey into the world of music was destined from the start. Surrounded by the melodic strains of RnB, jazz, and gospel, courtesy of their musical parents, !Sooks developed a deep-seated love for music. “I believe I had early exposure to music and dynamics every day,” !Sooks reminisces. “Growing up in such a musical environment gave me a unique perspective and understanding of music.”
Creating a Musical Sanctuary:
Driven by a passion to share his music with the world, Sooks embarked on a journey to establish his own label, Wolf Unleashed Records. “I wanted to have a home for my music,” he explains. After the expiration of a licensing deal with House Afrika Records, !Sooks took matters into his own hands, creating a space where his music could thrive. “It’s a little home for me,” they say.
Bringing Beats to Life:
!Sooks’ musical endeavours extend beyond the studio; he is also the mastermind behind UTW Events, a series of electronic music gatherings that bridge the gap between Swaziland and Johannesburg. “The whole point was to create a sanctuary for deep house lovers,” !Sooks shares. With an impressive lineup of artists and a commitment to fostering a sense of community, UTW Events has become a beacon of musical celebration.
The Rollercoaster of Creativity:
Despite his successes, !Sooks acknowledges the challenges that come with being a creative in the industry. “Deep house is in a good space creatively, but there’s a risk of everything sounding the same,” he reflects. “It can play with your mental health, but at the end of the day, staying true to yourself is key.”
Words of Wisdom:
For aspiring DJs, event curators, and label owners, !Sooks offers sage advice: “Believe in yourself, stay authentic, and don’t rush to jump on trends. Take it one day at a time, and success will follow.”
Dream Collaborations and Future Aspirations:
When asked about dream collaborations, !Sooks’ lights up with excitement. “Da Capo and I would make a dope tune,” he enthused. And as for future aspirations? “Performing at Tomorrowland and traveling the world to share my music,” !Sooks declares with a smile.
Embracing New Horizons:
As the day draws to a close, !Sooks reflects on his journey with gratitude and humility. “I’ve come a long way, but there’s still so much more to explore,” he reflected. With a heart full of passion and a soul ablaze with creativity, !Sooks continues to pave the way for a new era of musical innovation.
Written by Sisipho Caroline Nyamela
