DBN Gogo Makes History
DBN Gogo, the trailblazing DJ and producer from South Africa, has made history. This July, she became the first female Amapiano DJ to perform at the world-renowned Tomorrowland festival in Belgium. Known offstage as Mandisa Radebe, DBN Gogo graced the Crystal Garden stage.
Tomorrowland celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, attracting over 400,000 music lovers from more than 200 countries. The festival is one of the largest electronic dance music events globally.
Spanning two weekends, it features an impressive lineup of over 400 artists. DBN Gogo’s inclusion in this lineup marked a significant milestone for the Amapiano genre and South African music. Her rise to stardom has been meteoric, with her recent hit “Balimele,” a collaboration with Amapiano sensations LeeMcKrazy and Tyler ICU, taking the music scene by storm.
Just a week before her Tomorrowland debut, she also headlined a show at the iconic Somerset House, cementing her status as a leading figure in the genre.
“Performing at Tomorrowland is a dream come true,” DBN Gogo said. “It’s an honour to represent Amapiano and South Africa on such a prestigious platform.”
Her performance at Tomorrowland was highly anticipated. She shared the stage with prominent artists like London’s Alan Dixon, Tanzania’s Kayumba, Berlin-based Keinemusik, Meera, Samm, and the pop trio WhoMadeWho, delivering an unforgettable show.
The festival’s organisers meticulously curated a diverse lineup, featuring genres from techno to hard techno, house, bass, and EDM. Headliners included Swedish House Mafia, David Guetta, and Deadmau5. Each artist brought a unique flavour to the festival, promising an eclectic mix of sounds and styles.
DBN Gogo joined the ranks of South African artists who have made their mark on the global stage. Grammy award-winning DJ Black Coffee and music duo Major League DJz have previously performed at Tomorrowland, according to the Citizen.
“This paved the way for future South African talent. Seeing DBN Gogo on the Tomorrowland lineup is a proud moment for South Africa,” said a fan. “She’s breaking barriers and showing the world the power of Amapiano.”
Tomorrowland is more than just a music festival. With 16 stages, expansive experiential areas, and a sprawling campsite, it offers an immersive experience for attendees. The whimsical elements and vibrant atmosphere make it a magical event.
DBN Gogo’s performance brought the unique sounds of Amapiano to an international audience. Amapiano, a genre that originates in South Africa, has gained global recognition in recent years. Its infectious beats and catchy melodies have captivated listeners worldwide.
“Performing at such a prestigious event shows how far Amapiano has come,” DBN Gogo remarked. “It’s incredible to see the genre reaching new heights.”
As DBN Gogo took the stage at Tomorrowland, she carried the hopes and pride of South Africa with her. Her historic performance is a significant step forward for Amapiano and a shining example of the genre’s potential on the global stage.
In a few short years, DBN Gogo has risen to become a leading figure in the music industry. Her journey from local clubs in South Africa to the global stage of Tomorrowland is nothing short of inspiring. As she continues to break new ground, fans eagerly await what she will achieve next.