Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa, better known as Oskido, was born on November 26, 1967, in Oukasie township, Brits, North West, South Africa. The son of a Zimbabwean politician father and South African mother, Oskido spent his formative years in Luveve Township, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. After completing his education at Gifford High School in Bulawayo, he returned to Brits at 21 to manage a family business, only to soon find his true calling in Johannesburg's vibrant music scene.
From Razzmatazz to Renown: Oskido's Emergence in Music
Oskido's foray into music was somewhat serendipitous. He seized an unexpected opportunity to perform at Razzmatazz when the scheduled DJ failed to show up. His knack for mixing, coupled with guidance from the late Ian Sigola, propelled him into the limelight.
Collaborations with Bruce "Dope" Sebitlo under the Brothers of Peace banner resulted in pioneering Afro-house albums like 'Zabalaza: Project B,' with the title track gaining international recognition through Louie Vega's remix. Oskido played a key role in establishing groups like Mafikizolo and Bongo Muffin, solidifying his influence in the South African music industry.
Kalawa Jazmee: Oskido's Business Acumen
Oskido co-founded Kalawa Jazmee Records, originally Kalawa, in 1992 alongside Christos Katsaitis and Don Laka. The label, which became a prominent force in the music industry, was home to influential acts like Boom Shaka and later Mafikizolo and Bongo Maffin. Oskido's business savvy extended beyond music, as the label transformed into a cultural icon, shaping South African youth culture and music trends.
Revolutionizing Kwaito and Beyond
Oskido was instrumental in the evolution of Kwaito, a genre that became the voice of post-apartheid South African youth. His unique blend of slow-tempo house beats with jazz elements, a collaboration with jazz maestro Don Laka, set their music apart in the genre. Despite facing criticism, Oskido's contributions to dance music in South Africa were recognized with awards at the Channel O Music Video Awards and the SA Dance Music Awards.
The House Music Maestro
Renowned for his 'Church Grooves' compilation series, Oskido altered the landscape of South African house music. His radio show "I Believe" on Metro FM, along with the DJU initiative and the Southern African Music Conference, played a crucial role in mentoring emerging talents like Black Coffee and DJ Tira. In 2019, Oskido's album ‘Akhiwe’ showcased a blend of his signature sound with the burgeoning amapiano genre, collaborating with both established and rising artists.
Culinary and Cultural Entrepreneurship
Oskido's entrepreneurial spirit extended to the culinary world with the opening of Daruma By Oskido Japanese Restaurant in Waterfall Corner, Johannesburg. This venture reflects his multifaceted interests and his commitment to expanding his influence beyond the music industry.
Oskido's journey from a young entrepreneur to a venerated figure in the South African music scene is marked by innovation, resilience, and a deep connection to his roots. His contributions to genres like Kwaito, Afro-house, and Amapiano, coupled with his business and mentoring endeavors, have made him an iconic figure in both the music and cultural landscapes of South Africa.
Ze2, Oskido & X-Wise - Wena K'phela
Listen to Oskido's nusic here YouTube : Click Here Spotify : Click Here Apple Music : Click Here
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